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Drug Investigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

VRC Investigations

Surveillance Investigator

Dallas, TX · On-site

$21.25 - $26.25/hr

The surveillance investigator position is a field based, hourly, and non-exempt position. This ... Must pass a drug test and pre-employment test * Must have excellent overall computer skills.

VRC Investigations

Surveillance Investigator

Trenton, NJ · On-site

$21.50 - $26.50/hr

The surveillance investigator position is a field based, hourly, and non-exempt position. This ... Must pass a drug test and pre-employment test * Must have excellent overall computer skills.

VRC Investigations

Surveillance Investigator

San Diego, CA · On-site

$22.75 - $28.25/hr

The surveillance investigator position is a field based, hourly, and non-exempt position. This ... Must pass a drug test and pre-employment test * Must have excellent overall computer skills.

VRC Investigations

Surveillance Investigator

Allentown, PA · On-site

$21.25 - $26.25/hr

The surveillance investigator position is a field based, hourly, and non-exempt position. This ... Must pass a drug test and pre-employment test * Must have excellent overall computer skills.

VRC Investigations

Surveillance Investigator

Glendale, CA · On-site

$22.75 - $28/hr

The surveillance investigator position is a field based, hourly, and non-exempt position. This ... Must pass a drug test and pre-employment test * Must have excellent overall computer skills.

VRC Investigations

Surveillance Investigator

Lancaster, PA · On-site

$21 - $25.75/hr

The surveillance investigator position is a field based, hourly, and non-exempt position. This ... Must pass a drug test and pre-employment test * Must have excellent overall computer skills.

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Drug Investigator information

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$32K

$75.3K

$131K

How much do drug investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for drug investigator in the United States is $75,325.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,500.00 and $98,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a drug investigator?

Drug investigators are law enforcement professionals who specialize in investigating crimes related to illegal drugs and controlled substances. They gather evidence, conduct surveillance, interview witnesses, and work undercover to dismantle drug trafficking organizations. Drug investigators often collaborate with local, state, and federal agencies to enforce drug laws and bring offenders to justice. Their work is crucial in combating the distribution and abuse of illegal drugs in communities.

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

To thrive as a Drug Investigator, you need a solid understanding of criminal justice, investigative techniques, and drug laws, typically supported by a degree in criminal justice or related field and relevant law enforcement experience. Familiarity with surveillance technology, evidence collection procedures, and investigative databases is crucial. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you excel in building cases and working with multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualities are essential for ensuring thorough investigations, successful prosecutions, and public safety.

What are some common challenges faced by drug investigators during an investigation?

Drug Investigators often encounter challenges such as gathering reliable evidence while maintaining confidentiality, navigating complex legal requirements, and working with uncooperative witnesses or informants. They must also adapt to rapidly changing scenarios and coordinate closely with other law enforcement agencies, such as local police or federal authorities. Staying updated on the latest drug trafficking trends and technologies is essential to effectively disrupt illegal operations.

What is the difference between Drug Investigator vs Forensic Scientist?

AspectDrug InvestigatorForensic Scientist
Required CredentialsCriminal justice degree, law enforcement trainingScience degree (e.g., chemistry, biology), forensic certification
Work EnvironmentLaw enforcement agencies, crime scenes, labsCrime labs, research facilities, courtrooms
Employer & IndustryPolice departments, federal agenciesForensic labs, government agencies, private labs
Common Search & ComparisonInvestigating drug-related crimes, evidence collectionAnalyzing drug samples, forensic analysis

While both Drug Investigators and Forensic Scientists work in crime-related environments, Drug Investigators focus on investigating drug crimes and collecting evidence, often working in law enforcement. Forensic Scientists analyze physical evidence, including drug samples, in laboratory settings. Their roles complement each other in the criminal justice process, but their credentials, work environments, and daily tasks differ significantly.

How do you become a drug investigator?

To become a drug investigator, candidates typically need a background in criminal justice, law enforcement, or a related field, along with experience in investigations or forensic science. Many positions require a bachelor's degree and passing relevant training or certification programs, such as those offered by law enforcement academies or specialized agencies. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of drug laws are essential for success in this role.
More about Drug Investigator jobs

What cities are hiring for Drug Investigator jobs?

Cities with the most Drug Investigator job openings:

What states have the most Drug Investigator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Drug Investigator jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Drug Investigator jobs?

For Drug Investigator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Drug Investigator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drug Investigator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,325 per year, or $36.2 per hour.

Surveillance Investigator

Dallas, TX • On-site

VRC Investigations
Investigation and Physical Security Services • 501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about VRC Investigationsexternal

$21.25 - $26.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

We currently have career opportunities for experienced, self-determined, and highly motivated SURVEILLANCE INVESTIGATORS that would like to join our team of professionals in our efforts to deter and combat insurance fraud. The surveillance investigator position is a field based, hourly, and non-exempt position. This position requires daily travel within the designated city/territory in the advertised city and state. Opportunities for advancement include Management, SIU Investigations, and other operational positions.
The primary responsibilities of this position include but are not limited to conducting stationary, mobile, and covert surveillance, and background checks. Investigators will be required to document all findings into a clear and concise report, obtain video evidence, testify as needed at hearings and trials, and work independently with minimal supervision.
The successful candidate will have related experience as either:
  • A private investigator
  • Law enforcement
  • Loss prevention
  • Process Server
  • Security
  • Honorably discharged from any military branch

Core Duties & Responsibilities:
  • Ability to conduct stationary, covert, and mobile surveillance
  • Complete detailed and accurate investigative reports
  • Conduct research to develop new information
  • Provide daily updates regarding current files
  • Formulate investigative strategies based on individual assignments
  • Communicate results with clients

Applicants must meet the following requirements:
  • Access to a suitable surveillance vehicle
  • Willing to travel 75% of the time
  • Must have a valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record in accordance with the firm's guidelines
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Must have the ability to work efficiently with little or no supervision.
  • Must pass a drug test and pre-employment test
  • Must have excellent overall computer skills.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office programs
  • Excellent time management skills
  • Demonstrate ability to analyze information, develop logical questions and accurately report findings
  • Upon receiving a job offer you must attend 1 week of paid formal training at the VRC corporate office. Training will be followed up by on-the-job and specialized training as needed.

Benefits:
VRC provides their investigators with necessary equipment and comparable pay, to include drive time, above normal commute mileage reimbursement, company paid licensing fees in most states and allowance for non-reimbursed business expenses. VRC also offers medical, dental, vision, disability benefits, as well as paid vacation, and a 401K/Profit Sharing retirement plan.
Compensation: VRC employees are paid on a bi-weekly basis. Investigators are paid a competitive hourly wage to commensurate with experience.
For more information, please visit our web site located at https://vrcinvestigations.com/

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