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Chief Investigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

StateJobsNY

Assistant Chief of Investigations

White Plains, NY · On-site

$123K - $156K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Duties Description The Assistant Chief of Investigations will perform the following duties: • Provide daily leadership, coordination and evaluation of the investigate units in assigned region ...

StateJobsNY

Senior Investigator - All Divisions

Albany, NY · On-site

$82K - $101K/yr

The Senior Investigator will report directly to an Assistant Deputy Chief Investigator, who is reportable to the Deputy Chief Investigator for the division. The minimum qualifications include at ...

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$53K

$110.3K

$160.5K

How much do chief investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for chief investigator in the United States is $110,332.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,000.00 and $139,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a chief investigator?

Chief Investigators are senior professionals responsible for leading, overseeing, and managing research projects or investigations within an organization or research institution. They ensure that studies are conducted according to regulatory standards and ethical guidelines, coordinate project teams, and are often accountable for the project's overall progress and outcomes. Chief Investigators also manage budgets, communicate findings, and may serve as the primary point of contact for sponsors, regulatory bodies, and stakeholders.

How does a chief investigator balance administrative responsibilities with hands-on investigative work?

As a Chief Investigator, you will often need to juggle direct oversight of investigations alongside administrative duties such as case management, reporting, and team supervision. While you may occasionally participate in fieldwork or critical interviews, much of your role centers on guiding investigative strategy, allocating resources, and ensuring compliance with legal and organizational standards. Effective delegation, clear communication, and strong organizational skills are essential to maintain this balance. You'll regularly collaborate with other departments, legal counsel, and external agencies to ensure thorough and efficient case resolution.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a chief investigator?

To thrive as a Chief Investigator, you need expertise in research design, data analysis, and regulatory compliance, often supported by an advanced degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with research management software, grant submission systems, and adherence to protocols like Good Clinical Practice (GCP) are typically required. Strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication distinguish top performers in this role. These skills are crucial for ensuring research integrity, team coordination, and successful project outcomes.

What is the difference between Chief Investigator vs Detective?

AspectChief InvestigatorDetective
Required CredentialsTypically requires law enforcement experience, detective certification, and leadership skillsRequires law enforcement experience and investigative training, often with detective certification
Work EnvironmentLeads investigation teams, manages case strategies, and oversees multiple investigationsConducts investigations, gathers evidence, and interviews witnesses
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in law enforcement agencies, private investigation firms, and government agenciesCommonly employed in police departments, federal agencies, and private security firms

While both roles involve investigations, the Chief Investigator typically holds a leadership position overseeing investigations, whereas a Detective is directly involved in conducting investigations on the ground. The Chief Investigator often has more managerial responsibilities and a broader scope of oversight.

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Chief Investigator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chief Investigator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,332 per year, or $53 per hour.

Chief Investigator (Human Rights Specialist 3)

StateJobsNY

Buffalo, NY • On-site

$96K - $121K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Duties Description Reporting directly to the Assistant Commissioner, the Human Rights Specialist 3 will serve as the Chief Investigator, directing and planning anti-discrimination investigations. Duties include, but are not limited to:
• Develops and implements investigation of individual claims of discrimination or suspected systematic forms of discrimination.
• Identifies any research, witnesses, or documentary evidence needed.
• Sets deadlines to secure and evaluate evidence and complete the investigation.
• Oversees the development of investigative reports, and ensures quality, completeness, and accuracy in such reports.
• Reviews complex case files and issues a determination based on the findings of the investigation as to whether probable cause exists to believe that unlawful discrimination has occurred.
• Develops and conducts outreach efforts to relevant communities and/or constituency groups to educate such communities and groups on the New York State Human Rights Law and the Division; ensures that operations and staff are in full compliance with all laws, policies, procedures, and standards, including requirements for the Division's Case Management System.
• Responsible for the hiring of new investigators.
• Performs the full range of supervisory duties, including performance evaluations, employee selection, and time and attendance.
• Develops and delivers training programs for current and new investigators.
Minimum Qualifications Non-Competitive Qualifications:
Eight years of experience* in any combination of the following areas:
field investigation or law enforcement investigation and the preparation of detailed
narrative reports; planning, developing, implementing or enforcing a human rights, civil rights or housing and community development program; conducting discrimination or labor relations investigations; or litigation.
Substitution: an associate degree may substitute for two years of specialized
experience; bachelor's degree may substitute for four years of specialized experience; master's degree may substitute for five years of specialized experience; J.D. may substitute for six years of specialized experience; Ph.D. may substitute for seven years of specialized experience.
Transfer Qualifications: Current New York State employee with one year or more permanent, contingent-permanent or 55b/c service as a Human Rights Specialist 3 and are interested in reassignment.
Preferred Qualifications:
• 2 - 5 years supervising and supporting a mid-sized staff.
• Previous experience working for a government agency, whether City, State, or
Federal, in particular, United States Department of Housing and Urban
Development, EEOC and local human rights commissions.
• Connections to the Fair Housing community in New York State.
• Intersectional and trauma informed approach to working with constituents.
• Demonstrated commitment to public service.
• Advanced degree in either law, writing, or a related field preferred.
Additional Comments The New York State Division of Human Rights is a nation-leading civil rights enforcement agency tasked with combating hate, bias, and discrimination through the enforcement of the New York State Human Rights Law-one of the most expansive state-level civil rights laws anywhere in the country.
The Division is committed to creating an environment where employees and the New Yorkers we serve feel they belong, and the Division knows diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility are foundational to every aspect of civil rights work. The Division is an equal opportunity employer and recognizes that diversity in the workforce is critical. The Division encourages people living with disabilities and applicants from all communities to apply.
We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including:
• Holiday & Paid Time Off
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
• Pension from New York State Employees' Retirement System
• Affordable Health Care options
• Family dental and vision benefits at no additional cost
• NYS Deferred Compensation plan
• Access to NY 529 College Savings Program
Please note that specific benefits and programs may vary based on negotiating unit, current contract, and length of State service.
Salaries are non-negotiable. Candidates with no previous state service will begin at the starting rate of the posted salary range.
Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity.
Name Human Resources / CG
Telephone
Fax
Email Address HRresumes@dhr.ny.gov
Address
Street Agency Bldg 1, Empire State Plaza
City Albany
State NY
Zip Code 12220
Notes on Applying Please submit cover letter along with a clear and concise resume detailing how you meet the minimum qualifications for this position as listed in Specifics and indicate the Vacancy ID number for which you are applying.

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