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Detective Agency Jobs (NOW HIRING)

PhotoFax, Inc.

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.

Emerson College

Detective

Boston, MA · On-site

The Detective role at Emerson College primarily involves conducting follow-up investigations as ... Liaison Officer to other police agencies in matters relating to the apprehension of offenders and ...

Emerson College

Detective

Boston, MA

$31 - $38/hr

The Detective role at Emerson College primarily involves conducting follow-up investigations as ... Liaison Officer to other police agencies in matters relating to the apprehension of offenders and ...

SECURITY INDUSTRY SPECIALISTS INC

$21/hr

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

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$29K

$61.9K

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How much do detective agency jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 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.

How do you join a detective agency?

To join a detective agency, candidates typically need a background in law enforcement, criminal justice, or related fields, and may be required to obtain relevant licenses or certifications depending on local regulations. Experience in investigation, strong observation skills, and knowledge of legal procedures are also important for employment in this field.

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 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 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 do you get hired as a detective agency?

To work as a detective or private investigator, candidates typically need relevant experience in law enforcement or security, and may require licensing or certification depending on the jurisdiction. Skills such as surveillance, interviewing, and report writing are important, and some agencies prefer candidates with a background in criminal justice or related fields. Applying through licensed agencies or starting as an apprentice can also be part of the hiring process.
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Detective Agency jobs near you
Infographic showing various Detective Agency job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 16% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,905 per year, or $29.8 per hour.

Security Specialist - Part Time

Security Industry Specialists, Inc.

King Of Prussia, PA • On-site

$21/hr

Part-time

PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Security Industry Specialists rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 116 rated security

Job description

About the role:
The Security Specialists, under the direct supervision of the Shift Supervisor, ensures SIS standards and policies are met in overall field services, operations and functions in assigned area such as: site inspections, emergency response, camera review, client liaison, and special projects as assigned. All duties must be performed in accordance to client policies and procedures and all state and federal regulations.
In this role, your responsibilities will be:
  • Provide a safe and professional work environment for client's employees and guests
  • Provide escort, patrol on foot to secure your assigned post
  • Act quickly as a responder to incidents
  • Bring a positive attitude every day -- represent our brand, the client, and yourself in a professional manner

As a candidate you must have:
  • High school diploma (or GED)
  • Must complete and maintain state Guard Certification as prescribed by presiding state law, as well as all client requested certifications
  • Interpersonal skills and a professional attitude
  • Uniform attire and grooming standards must be maintained while in uniform

We offer:
  • $21 per hour
  • Paid Time Off including Sick/Safe Time
  • A dynamic and challenging work environment with opportunity for growth

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

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