How to Be Professional Background Investigator - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

May 15, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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A Background Investigator is a professional who is responsible for conducting in-depth research on a person's background. This research is conducted to discover any criminal activity, past employment, education, and any other relevant information that may be needed for a variety of reasons. The job of a Background Investigator requires an understanding of the law and the ability to conduct interviews and research to obtain accurate information.

The information obtained by the investigator can be used to make important decisions such as granting security clearance, determining eligibility for benefits, or verifying the job history of an applicant. By doing this research, employers are able to make more informed decisions that protect the security of an organization or individual.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a Bachelor's Degree. Becoming a professional background investigator typically requires an individual to have a bachelor's degree in fields such as criminal justice, psychology, sociology, political science, or a related field.
Obtain Professional Certification. Professional certifications are available from organizations such as the National Association of Professional Background Screeners (NAPBS). Certification helps demonstrate an investigator has the knowledge and skills necessary to conduct background investigations.
Complete an Internship. Internships are available for those interested in becoming a background investigator. Internships provide hands-on experience as well as the opportunity to learn from experienced investigators.
Apply for Jobs. After completing the educational and certifications requirements, individuals should apply for jobs as a background investigator. Most employers will require applicants to have at least one year of investigative experience before they will be considered.
Obtain Licensure. Depending on the state, investigators may need to obtain licensure in order to practice professionally. It is important to check with the state licensing board to determine if this step is necessary.
Maintain Professional Certification. Background investigators must keep their certification up-to-date by completing continuing education courses and other requirements set by their certification organization.

In a fast-changing world, it is important for a background investigator to stay up-to-date and competent. Regularly attending professional development courses, reading industry-specific publications, and networking with peers are all essential activities for staying informed. staying informed on changes in laws, regulations, and technology can help investigators stay ahead of the curve and provide the best service to their clients.

Keeping up with new trends and technologies also ensures that investigators have the most efficient tools for researching and gathering evidence. by staying informed and current on industry trends, a professional background investigator can remain competent and provide an invaluable service to their clients.

You may want to check Background Investigator, Arson Investigator, and Investigating Officer for alternative.

Job Description

Background Investigator: Responsible for completing detailed background investigations on individuals in order to verify their identity, criminal records, financial records, and other information as needed.
Compliance Officer: Responsible for monitoring and enforcing compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and policies.
Risk Analyst: Responsible for researching potential risks, assessing potential threats, and developing risk management plans.
Intelligence Analyst: Responsible for gathering, analyzing, and interpreting data to identify patterns, trends, and correlations.
Security Specialist: Responsible for developing and implementing security protocols and procedures to protect an organizations assets, personnel, and customers.
Data Scientist: Responsible for using data to identify trends and develop predictive models to inform decision making.
Investigative Reporter: Responsible for uncovering and reporting on stories of public importance.
Fraud Examiner: Responsible for investigating suspected fraudulent activities and recommending corrective actions.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Research Skills
Investigative Skills
Interviewing Skills
Analytical Skills
Report Writing Skills
Critical Thinking Skills
Data Analysis Skills
Problem Solving Skills
Judgment and Decision-Making Skills
Negotiation Skills
Interpersonal Communication Skills
Computer Skills
Organizational Skills
Time Management Skills
Attention to Detail

Having a professional background in investigation is an invaluable skill when it comes to uncovering the truth. An investigator must have knowledge and experience in research, critical thinking, and problem-solving in order to effectively investigate a situation. They must also have excellent communication and interpersonal skills to be able to interview witnesses and other people relevant to the case.

Furthermore, they must be able to analyze evidence and draw conclusions from the data collected. An investigator must also have a strong moral compass and understand the legal framework within which they operate. All of these skills combined make a professional background investigator an invaluable asset in uncovering the truth and bringing justice to those who need it.

Crime Scene Investigator, Special Investigator, and Investigative Consultant are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

How long have you been a professional background investigator?
What experience do you have in conducting background investigations?
What techniques do you use to uncover relevant information during a background investigation?
How do you ensure the accuracy of the data collected during the background investigation?
What challenges have you faced while conducting background investigations?
What techniques do you use to verify identity and employment history?
How do you handle confidential information and maintain privacy during a background investigation?
How do you determine the credibility of a subject during a background investigation?
What methods do you use to protect the safety of yourself and others while conducting a background investigation?
How do you stay up to date with changing laws and regulations related to background investigations?

Common Tools in Industry

Background Check Software. This software is used to cross-reference information provided by an applicant to verify their identity and confirm their past employment, education, and criminal records. (eg: GoodHire)
Investigative Interviews. These are conversations conducted by the investigator to gain insight into the applicants background, character, and qualifications. (eg: Verifile)
Online Database Searches. These searches are conducted using public records, social media accounts, and other online sources to compile a comprehensive report on an individuals background. (eg: LexisNexis)
Reference Checks. This involves contacting an applicants previous employers, colleagues, and other individuals to confirm the accuracy of their application information. (eg: Checkr)
Professional Networking. This involves contacting people within a particular profession or industry who may have information about a potential hire. (eg: LinkedIn)

Professional Organizations to Know

National Association of Professional Background Screeners (NAPBS)
International Association for Professional Background Screeners (IAPBS)
Society of Professional Background Screeners (SPBS)
Association of Certified Background Investigators (ACBI)
Professional Background Screening Association (PBSA)
Professional Background Investigation Association (PBIA)
National Association of Professional Process Servers (NAPPS)
National Association of Investigative Specialists (NAIS)
National Council of Investigation and Security Services (NCISS)
International Association of Private Security Consultants (IAPSC)

We also have Medical Investigator, Undercover Investigator, and Private Investigator jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Background Check. A process of gathering information about an individual's past, including criminal records, employment history, and educational credentials.
Criminal Records. Official documents that list any criminal activities an individual has been involved in, including convictions and arrests.
Employment History. A record of previous jobs, including dates of employment and job duties.
Educational Credentials. Documentation of an individual's academic achievements and qualifications, such as diplomas or degrees.
Interviews. A process of gathering information through direct conversation with an individual.
Reference Checks. Verification of an individual's past performance by contacting previous employers and other references.
Document Verification. The process of confirming the accuracy of any documents submitted by an individual.
Surveillance. The act of monitoring an individual's activities from a distance.
Database Searches. The use of online databases to lookup information about an individual.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Professional Background Investigator?

A Professional Background Investigator is an individual who specializes in researching and verifying an individual's background information. They are often employed by businesses, government organizations, and private investigators to identify potential risk factors and uncover any potential issues related to an individual's background check.

What types of information does a Professional Background Investigator research?

A Professional Background Investigator typically researches an individual's educational background, employment history, criminal record, and financial information. They may also research references, past employers, and other sources of information to gain a more comprehensive picture of the individual in question.

What qualifications do Professional Background Investigators need?

Professional Background Investigators usually need to have a bachelor's degree in criminal justice or a related field. They may also need to have experience working in law enforcement or private investigation. In some cases, they may also need to have specific certifications related to background investigations.

How long does it take to complete a background investigation?

The length of time required to complete a background investigation varies depending on the scope and complexity of the investigation. Typically, most investigations can be completed within two to four weeks.

What are the benefits of hiring a Professional Background Investigator?

Hiring a Professional Background Investigator can help ensure accuracy and completeness in the background check process. Their expertise can help identify potential issues and verify the accuracy of the information being researched. This can help reduce the risk of making a hiring decision based on faulty or incomplete information.

Web Resources

Professional Investigator Certificate - College of Professional cpetest.kennesaw.edu
Criminal Background Investigator // Purdue College of Liberal Arts www.cla.purdue.edu
Background Investigations HR & Payroll - George Mason hr.gmu.edu