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Assistant Investigator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Principal Investigators (Field Based)

Nevada, IA · On-site

$43.22 - $60.67/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Assure quality control for all crew members collected data and methods * Assist with preparation of ... Minimum of 5 years of Principal Investigator experience in Great Basin archaeological fieldwork

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Assistant Investigator information

See Iowa salary details

$33.8K

$37K

$46.5K

How much do assistant investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant investigator in Iowa is $36,971.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35,200.00 and $35,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an assistant investigator?

Assistant Investigators are professionals who support lead investigators in conducting research, gathering evidence, and analyzing information in various fields such as law enforcement, clinical research, or scientific studies. They assist with data collection, documentation, and ensuring that investigations follow protocols and ethical standards. Their role is vital to the success of an investigation, often involving collaboration with other team members and communication of findings. Depending on the industry, Assistant Investigators may also help prepare reports, maintain records, and present results to stakeholders.

What is the difference between Assistant Investigator vs Investigator?

AspectAssistant InvestigatorInvestigator
Required CredentialsTypically a bachelor's degree, relevant experience, sometimes certificationsUsually a bachelor's degree, with more experience or specialized certifications
Work EnvironmentSupportive role in investigations, often under supervisionLead role in conducting investigations independently
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in law enforcement, private investigation, and regulatory agenciesMore senior investigative roles within similar organizations
Common Search & ComparisonOften searched together for career progressionHigher responsibility, more experience required

The main difference between an Assistant Investigator and an Investigator lies in experience, responsibility, and independence. Assistant Investigators typically support investigations under supervision, while Investigators lead and manage cases independently. Both roles are common in law enforcement and private sectors, with Investigators generally requiring more experience or certifications.

What are some typical challenges assistant investigators face when managing multiple cases simultaneously?

Assistant Investigators often juggle several cases at once, which can require strong time management and prioritization skills. Balancing investigative duties, such as evidence collection, documentation, and reporting, while meeting deadlines can be demanding. Close collaboration with senior investigators and other departments helps distribute workload and maintain quality standards. Staying organized and communicating effectively are key to successfully navigating these challenges and ensuring thorough, timely investigations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant investigator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Investigator, you typically need a background in criminal justice or a related field, strong analytical skills, and attention to detail. Familiarity with investigative software, case management systems, and occasionally forensic tools is often required. Strong communication, critical thinking, and discretion are important soft skills for gathering information and collaborating with law enforcement or other agencies. These skills ensure accurate, thorough investigations and support effective case resolution while maintaining legal and ethical standards.

What are the most commonly searched types of Investigator jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Investigator jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Assistant Investigator jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Assistant Investigator job openings:

Infographic showing various Assistant Investigator job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 7% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,971 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Iowa Clinical Investigator Consultant - Must Reside in Iowa

Sun Life Financial

Des Moines, IA • Hybrid

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

90th of 309 rated insurance


Job description

Sun Life U.S. is one of the largest providers of employee and government benefits, helping approximately 50 million Americans access the care and coverage they need. Through employers, industry partners and government programs, Sun Life U.S. offers a portfolio of benefits and services, including dental, vision, disability, absence management, life, supplemental health, medical stop-loss insurance, and healthcare navigation. We have more than 6,400 employees and associates in our partner dental practices and operate nationwide.


At Sun Life, we're driven by our Purpose: helping our Clients achieve lifetime financial security and live healthier lives. Our values shape how we work: caring, authentic, bold, inspiring, and impactful.


When you join Sun Life, you'll work with passionate colleagues and empowering leaders who support your growth and celebrate your contributions, so you can make a meaningful difference in our Clients' lives.


Visit our website to discover how Sun Life is making life brighter for our customers, partners and communities.

DentaQuest manages dental and vision benefits for more than 33 million Americans. Our outcomes-based, cost-effective solutions are designed for Medicaid and CHIP, Medicare Advantage, small and large businesses, and individuals. With a focus on prevention and value, we aim to make quality care accessible to improve the oral health of all.


Job Description:

Sun Life embraces a hybrid work model that balances in-office collaboration with the flexibility of virtual work in the contiguous states plus AK.

** Candidate must reside in the state of Iowa.

The Opportunity:

The Clinical Investigator is responsible for the retrospective review of paid claims and analysis of claims data to identify provider fraud, waste or abuse. The Clinical Investigator will conduct in-depth analysis, peer analysis trend analysis and statistical analysis to identify providers whose utilization patterns are outside of the expected norm from their peers in their assigned markets. They will have full responsibility for all contractual obligations for their assigned clients related to fraud, waste or abuse. The Clinical Investigator is responsible for the professional relationship with assigned clients related to fraud, waste and abuse and is responsible for all aspects of the investigative process from identification, initiation, completion and referral of the investigation as applicable. The Clinical Investigator is responsible for working with providers to educate, impose corrective action and to reach case resolution. The Investigator works closely with clients, managed care organizations, state agencies and law enforcement related to their investigations as required.

How you will contribute:

  • Responsible for clinical interpretation of dental radiographs.

  • Independently interpret utilization reports to detect patterns and potential areas of fraud, waste or abuse.

  • Query data to conduct comprehensive drill down data analysis to detect patterns and trends of under and over utilization.

  • Investigate provider and member fraud and abuse in assigned markets.

  • Manage multiple clients and associated provider networks related to fraud, waste and abuse investigation.

  • Work with and in consultation with DentaQuest Dental Directors during the investigative process to assure accurate and defensible clinical decisions.

  • Responsible for the accuracy of all investigative decisions and that the decisions are clinically sound, supported by appropriate and documented authority and defensible.

  • Assure all audit decisions are in compliance with Medicare regulations, State Medicaid Guidelines, DentaQuest Office Reference Manual and plan benefit limitations.

  • Assist management in overpayment negotiations with providers related to the results and findings of an investigation.

  • Responsible for the implementation and updating of all client processes related to Fraud, Waste and Abuse.

  • Maintain the professional relationship with assigned client contacts related to fraud, waste and abuse investigation.

  • Responsible for all investigation and client related communications to providers for provision of investigative facts and findings.

  • Responsible for all client facing meetings related to fraud, waste and abuse.

  • Track all investigative cases in accurate timeline format in internal fraud tracking database.

  • Have the ability to independently manage workflow to meet business needs, assure contractual obligations for all clients are met and to meet departmental metrics.

  • Responsible for the development of interdepartmental relationships to assure all issues related to fraud, waste or abuse are identified and appropriately investigated.

  • Responsible for the preparation and accuracy of recovery documents for processing and assure that they are completed correctly and in a timely fashion.

  • Responsible for all assigned client contractual reporting requirements related to investigative activity and outcomes.

  • Maintain professional relationships with market assigned, state Medicaid agencies, and state and federal law enforcement agencies.

  • Assist in the ongoing evaluation of departmental policies and procedures.

What you will bring with you:

  • Licensed Registered Dental Hygienist is preferred.

  • 3 + years clinical experience and/or related investigative business experience.

  • Experience in Dental Utilization Management or Review, preferred

Preferred skills

  • Knowledge of general computer software (Excel, Word, Outlook, Adobe).

  • Clinical experience and knowledge of dental procedures and terminology is required.

  • Effective oral communication and business writing skills are required.

  • Attention to detail, accuracy and organizational skills are essential.

  • Effective interpersonal skills are essential.

  • Ability to prioritize and adapt to changing priorities is essential.

Salary:

Salary Range: $54,100 - $81,200
At our company, we are committed to pay transparency and equity. The salary range for this role is competitive nationwide, and we strive to ensure that compensation is fair and equitable. Your actual base salary will be determined based on your unique skills, qualifications, experience, education, and geographic location. In addition to your base salary, this position is eligible for a discretionary annual incentive award based on your individual performance as well as the overall performance of the business. We are dedicated to creating a work environment where everyone is rewarded for their contributions.

Not ready to apply yet but want to stay in touch? Join our talent community to stay connected until the time is right for you!

We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where all employees feel they belong, are supported and empowered to thrive. We are dedicated to building teams with varied experiences, backgrounds, perspectives and ideas that benefit our colleagues, clients, and the communities where we operate. We encourage applications from qualified individuals from all backgrounds.

Life is brighter when you work at Sun Life

At Sun Life, we prioritize your well-being with comprehensive benefits, including generous vacation and sick time, market-leading paid family, parental and adoption leave, medical coverage, company paid life and AD&D insurance, disability programs and a partially paid sabbatical program. Plan for your future with our 401(k) employer match, stock purchase options and an employer-funded retirement account. Enjoy a flexible, inclusive and collaborative work environment that supports career growth. We're proud to be recognized in our communities as a top employer. Proudly Great Place to Work Certified in Canada and the U.S., we've also been recognized as a "Top 10" employer by the Boston Globe's "Top Places to Work" for two years in a row. Visit our website to learn more about our benefits and recognition within our communities.

We will make reasonable accommodations to the known physical or mental limitations of otherwise-qualified individuals with disabilities or special disabled veterans, unless the accommodation would impose an undue hardship on the operation of our business. Please email thebrightside@sunlife.comto request an accommodation.

For applicants residing in California, please read our employee California Privacy Policy and Notice.

We do not require or administer lie detector tests as a condition of employment or continued employment.

Sun Life will consider for employment all qualified applicants, including those with criminal histories, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including applicable fair chance ordinances.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Job Category:

Claims - Health & Dental

Posting End Date:

03/09/2026

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