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Detective Agency Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Detective

Olympia, WA · Hybrid

$6.7K - $9.0K/mo

The agency reserves the right to make a hiring decision at any time after the initial screening ... The detective position coordinates special investigations, leads task forces, leverages new ...

Private Investigator- PT PhotoFax, Inc., a nationwide private detective agency, is currently hiring experienced surveillance investigators for Sub-Contractor opportunities in the Portland, OR area.

Private Investigator PT/SUB

Lake Oswego, OR · On-site

$23 - $29.25/hr

Private Investigator- PT PhotoFax, Inc., a nationwide private detective agency, is currently hiring experienced surveillance investigators for Sub-Contractor opportunities in the Portland, OR area.

$21/hr

Montgomery County Private Detective Agency #225 Security Industry Specialists, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Private Investigator PT/SUB

Lake Oswego, OR

$23 - $29.25/hr

Private Investigator- PT PhotoFax, Inc., a nationwide private detective agency, is currently hiring experienced surveillance investigators for Sub-Contractor opportunities in the Portland, OR area.

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Detective Agency information

See salary details

$29K

$61.9K

$98.5K

How much do detective agency jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for detective agency in the United States is $61,905.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,500.00 and $71,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a detective agency?

A detective agency is a business that provides investigative services to individuals, businesses, or law enforcement agencies. These agencies employ private detectives or investigators who are skilled in gathering information, conducting surveillance, and solving cases such as missing persons, fraud, theft, or infidelity. Detective agencies often work on civil or criminal matters and must follow local laws and regulations regarding privacy and investigative practices. They use a variety of methods and tools to collect evidence and often present their findings in reports or as testimony in court.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive at a detective agency, and why are they important?

To thrive at a detective agency, you need strong investigative skills, attention to detail, and a background in criminal justice or related fields, often supported by relevant licenses. Familiarity with case management software, surveillance equipment, and digital research tools is crucial. Excellent communication, critical thinking, and discretion are vital soft skills for handling sensitive information and working with clients. These abilities enable effective case resolution, ensure legal compliance, and build client trust in investigative work.

What are some common challenges detectives face when working on complex cases within a detective agency?

Detectives often encounter challenges such as limited or conflicting evidence, uncooperative witnesses, and tight deadlines, all of which can make solving cases more difficult. Collaboration with other detectives, law enforcement, and forensic specialists is crucial to piece together information and develop leads. Additionally, detectives must balance investigative work with administrative tasks like report writing and court appearances, requiring strong organizational skills. Adapting to evolving technology and investigative techniques is also essential for success in this dynamic role.

What is the difference between Detective Agency vs Private Investigator?

AspectDetective AgencyPrivate Investigator
CredentialsMay require licensing, background checks, and sometimes certificationsOften requires licensing, background checks, and certifications
Work EnvironmentOperates as a business with multiple investigators, often in offices and on field assignmentsIndividually hired, working in various locations, including client sites and on surveillance
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by clients seeking investigative services, law firms, insurance companiesHired directly by individuals, attorneys, or companies for specific cases

Detective agencies and private investigators share similar credentials and work environments, often overlapping in industry usage. The main difference is that detective agencies operate as organizations with multiple investigators, while private investigators are typically individual practitioners hired for specific cases.

How can I become a detective agency?

To become a detective agency, you need to establish a legal business entity, obtain any required licenses or permits, and ensure compliance with local regulations. Hiring licensed private investigators and developing skills in surveillance, investigation techniques, and report writing are essential for success in the field.

How do I join a detective agency?

To join a detective agency as a private investigator, candidates typically need a background in law enforcement, military, or security work, along with strong observational and analytical skills. Many agencies require licensing or certification, which involves passing a background check and completing relevant training or courses. Experience with surveillance tools and knowledge of legal regulations are also important for employment in this field.

Is it hard to get a job as a detective agency?

Getting a job as a detective typically requires relevant experience, such as law enforcement or security work, and often involves passing background checks and obtaining licensing or certifications. Competition can be high, and strong investigative skills, attention to detail, and discretion are important for success in the field.
More about Detective Agency jobs

What cities are hiring for Detective Agency jobs?

Cities with the most Detective Agency job openings:

What states have the most Detective Agency jobs?

States with the most job openings for Detective Agency jobs include:

Infographic showing various Detective Agency job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,905 per year, or $29.8 per hour.

Mobile Armed Security Officer - Elite Patrol Division (Fully Equipped)

Chicago, IL • On-site

$19.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Mobile Armed Security Officer – Elite Patrol Division (Fully Equipped)

Location: Chicago, Illinois amp; Surrounding Areas

Employment Type: Full-Time

Compensation: $19.25 per hour

Schedule: Open availability required (mornings, evenings, overnights, weekends, and holidays)

ON-THE-SPOT HIRING OFFERS

Kates Detective amp; Security Agency is bypassing the slow corporate HR runaround. We are extending on-the-spot job offers to fully qualified, pre-equipped professionals.

Bring your physical credentials and your duty gear to your interview. If you meet our operational standards, you will walk out of your interview with a signed offer letter in hand. Don't wait weeks for a callback; walk in and secure your roster spot today.


The Illinois State Processing Bridge (Our Timeline)

Because Illinois state compliance requires a Temporary Assignment Network (TAN) filing for new company layouts, all incoming officers begin on our paid mobile patrol routes at $19.25/hr.

  • Zero Income Gap: Start earning a paycheck immediately on Day 1 while mastering your fleet vehicles, technology, and patrol routes.


Position Summary

We are seeking experienced, professional, and fully equipped Mobile Armed Security Officers to provide high-visibility patrol services across client locations. This role involves operating company vehicles, responding to incidents, and maintaining a commanding security presence. Because we provide top-tier mobile operations, we actively target professionals who have already invested heavily in their own professional duty gear.

Minimum Requirements (Pre-Equipped Only)

To pass our strict compliance vetting, you must personally own and bring all required physical credentials and professional duty gear to your interview.

⚠️ IMPORTANT SECURITY NOTICE: Do NOT bring your firearm to the corporate office for your interview. Instead, you must bring official documentation verifying ownership of your duty weapon (e.g., a firearm sales receipt, a copy of your firearm registration/purchase record, or a clear printed photograph of the firearm alongside your physical FOID card):

  • Age: Must be 25 years of age or older (strict insurance requirement for company vehicle operation).

  • State Credentials: Valid Illinois PERC Card amp; Valid Physical FOID Card.

  • Training Certifications: 20-Hour Unarmed Security Training Certificate amp; 40-Hour Firearm Training Certificate (Valid 230 Letter/FCC).

  • Personal Duty Gear: Must personally own a Full-Size Semi-Automatic Duty Pistol (4"-to-5"-barrel class, chambered in 9mm, .40 S amp;W, or .45 ACP) and a compatible Level II or Level III retention holster.

  • Body Armor: Must personally own a compliant, field-ready bulletproof vest or external ballistic carrier.

  • Driving Record: Valid Driver’s License with a clean driving record.

  • Identity Docs: Valid government-issued photo ID, plus an original Social Security Card or Birth Certificate.

  • Education: High School Diploma or GED (Bachelor’s Degree preferred).

  • Certifications: Handcuff Certification (if applicable)

  • Screening: Ability to pass a background check, drug screening, and other pre-employment screenings as permitted by law.

Experience Requirements
  • Minimum 3–5 years of security experience required.

  • 2–5 years of mobile patrol experience strongly preferred.

  • Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to remain calm in high-pressure situations.

Key Responsibilities
  • Conduct mobile patrols using company vehicles and/or foot patrols.

  • Maintain a visible security presence to deter criminal activity and respond promptly to incidents.

  • Complete accurate, timely incident reports and daily activity logs.

  • Ensure full compliance with company policies, post orders, and applicable state regulations.

Core Competencies
  • Strong situational awareness and attention to detail.

  • Professional demeanor and customer service orientation.

  • Conflict resolution and de-escalation skills.

  • Reliability, accountability, and integrity.

Work Environment amp; Expectations
  • Outdoor and indoor patrol in various weather conditions.

  • Extended periods of standing, walking, running, and driving.

Company Overview

KATES DETECTIVE amp; SECURITY AGENCY INC is a licensed, highly respected Chicago-based security firm providing premier security and investigative services. We are committed to safety, integrity, and excellence while fostering an elite, team-oriented, and professional work environment.


Skip the Wait: Walk-In Hiring Sessions

Want to fast-track your hiring process? Skip the online application queue and come straight to our corporate headquarters for an immediate face-to-face interview. If you bring the required credentials and meet our team standards, you will walk out with a job offer in hand.

  • When: Tuesdays amp; Thursdays | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

  • Where: Kates Corporate Headquarters | 7815 S. Western Ave, Chicago, IL

Important: To secure your on-the-spot offer letter, all required physical credentials, duty weapon specifications, and gear verification must be presented at the time of your interview. Only original physical documents will be accepted (no digital copies, screenshots, or photocopies).

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

KATES DETECTIVE amp; SECURITY AGENCY INC is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.