Background Investigator (FT Employee) - State College, PA

Peraton•State College, PA

About The Position

Peraton is hiring a full-time Background Investigator near State College, Pennsylvania. Applicants must live within 50 miles of the city center. The investigator completes six to seven weeks of full-time training, delivered virtually and in person, to become certified in the Federal Investigative Standards for government background investigations. The role involves determining the employment suitability of people who require access to sensitive or classified U.S. Government information. Investigators travel locally and, as needed, outside their primary work area to interview subjects and people who know them, and to search records at agencies and institutions. They prepare clear, accurate reports using a government-issued computer system and work independently while remaining part of a team that includes other investigators and a Field Manager. A home office is required, and temporary duty assignments involving 14–30 days away from home may be required.

Requirements

At least four years of general work experience or a bachelor's degree; candidates with experience conducting federal background investigations are preferred.
Ability to obtain and maintain eligibility for a Top Secret clearance.
U.S. citizenship.
Ability to travel locally each day and outside the primary work area as needed.
Maintain a home office.
Ability to undertake temporary duty assignments involving remote travel and 14–30 days away from home per assignment, if required.
Reside within the stated mileage requirement: 50 miles of the city center of State College, Pennsylvania.
Valid driver's license and full-time use of reliable transportation; driving is an essential job function, and motor vehicle records may be checked.
Carry sufficient motor vehicle insurance.
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, hear sufficiently to communicate in person and by phone, and record, read, and transcribe words and numbers accurately.
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 pay 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.
An active federal background investigation with a T5 adjudication.
Ability to interact professionally and effectively with people with a variety of 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 virtual and in-person investigator training and certification in the Federal Investigative Standards.
Travel daily to conduct in-person background investigations for government employment suitability determinations.
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 and mental health facilities.
Type and report obtained information clearly and concisely using a government-issued computer system.
Work independently as part of a team of investigators and with a Field Manager.

Benefits

Medical, dental, and vision benefits.
Life insurance.
Health savings account.
Short- and long-term disability.
Employee assistance program (EAP).
Parental leave.
401(k).
Paid time off for vacation.
Company-paid holidays.
Employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus, depending on the position.