Background Investigator (FT Employee) - Chantilly, VA

Peraton•Chantilly, VA

About The Position

Peraton is hiring a full-time Background Investigator near Chantilly, Virginia. Applicants must live within 50 miles of Chantilly city center. The investigator completes six to seven weeks of full-time training, conducted virtually and in person, to become certified in Federal Investigative Standards for government background investigations. The role involves local and occasional out-of-area travel, face-to-face interviews, records searches, and preparing clear, concise reports on a government-issued computer. Investigators work independently as part of a team and with a Field Manager. A home office is required, and temporary duty assignments may involve travel away from home for 14–30 days per assignment. The role requires U.S. citizenship and the ability to obtain and maintain eligibility for a Top Secret clearance. A valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, sufficient vehicle insurance, and willingness to travel are required. Candidates must be able to communicate and write for extended periods, accurately record and transcribe information, use multiple computer programs, and meet fieldwork, attendance, and professional conduct expectations. Physical duties include lifting up to 10 pounds, climbing stairs, extensive walking, prolonged standing, and driving in adverse or nighttime conditions. The stated rate is $26.07 per hour. Eligible employees may receive benefits including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, health savings account, short- and long-term disability, EAP, parental leave, 401(k), paid time off, and company-paid holidays. Relocation assistance is not available.

Requirements

At least four years of general work experience or a bachelor’s degree; candidates with federal background investigation experience are preferred.
Ability to obtain and maintain eligibility for a Top Secret clearance.
U.S. citizenship.
Reside within 50 miles of Chantilly city center.
Ability to travel daily locally and outside the primary work area as needed.
Ability to complete temporary duty assignments involving 14–30 days away from home per assignment, if required.
Maintain a home office.
Valid driver’s license, full-time use of reliable transportation, and sufficient motor vehicle insurance; driving is an essential job function and motor vehicle records may be checked.
Accurate and efficient typing; 40+ words per minute is recommended, along with the ability to work in multiple computer programs concurrently.
Ability to speak for extended periods and hear sufficiently to communicate in person and by phone; accurately record, read, and transcribe words and numbers.
Proficient grammar and writing skills to produce high-quality reports with minimal or no errors.
Ability to interact professionally, write for long periods, meet attendance and punctuality expectations, and maintain attention to detail during fieldwork.
Maintain confidentiality, ethics, and integrity.
Wear professional attire.
Ability to lift and move up to 10 pounds, climb stairs, walk extensively, stand for long periods, and drive in adverse and/or nighttime conditions.

Nice To Haves

Experience conducting federal background investigations.
Active federal background investigation with a T5 adjudication.
Ability to interact professionally and effectively with a variety of individuals and personalities.
Ability to work in a fast-paced, changing environment under remote supervision.
Excellent organizational, scheduling, and prioritization skills.
Proficient writing and communication skills.

Responsibilities

Complete six to seven weeks of full-time investigator training, virtually and in person, to become certified in Federal Investigative Standards.
Travel locally and, as needed, outside the primary work area to conduct background investigations concerning employment suitability for people who require access to sensitive or classified U.S. Government information.
Schedule and conduct face-to-face interviews with investigation subjects and their neighbors, employers, friends, and family.
Search records at police agencies, courthouses, educational and financial institutions, and medical or mental health facilities.
Type and report gathered information clearly and concisely using a government-issued computer system.
Work independently as part of a team of investigators and in coordination with a Field Manager.