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Entry Level Investigator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

City of Alexandria

Fraud Investigator I

Amherst, VA

$18/hr

Fraud Investigator I represents the entry level and works under close supervision while being trained in investigating fraud for a variety of social services and government assistance programs. The ...

New

Dewberry

Entry Level Site/Civil Engineer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$82K - $85K/yr

... an investigative consumer report. These screenings will be conducted by Dewberry's background ... Our entry-level program comes together on a regular basis for professional development events and ...

Dewberry

Entry Level Site/Civil Engineer

Fairfax, VA

$82K - $85K/yr

... an investigative consumer report. These screenings will be conducted by Dewberry's background ... Our entry-level program comes together on a regular basis for professional development events and ...

Dewberry

Entry Level Site/Civil Engineer

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$82K - $85K/yr

... an investigative consumer report. These screenings will be conducted by Dewberry's background ... Our entry-level program comes together on a regular basis for professional development events and ...

Dewberry

Entry Level Site/Civil Engineer

Glen Allen, VA

$78K - $81K/yr

... an investigative consumer report. These screenings will be conducted by Dewberry's background ... As an entry-level hire, you'll be part of a class of peers with 0-1 year of professional experience.

Dewberry

Entry Level Site/Civil Engineer

Leesburg, VA

$82K - $85K/yr

... an investigative consumer report. These screenings will be conducted by Dewberry's background ... As an entry-level hire, you'll be part of a class of peers with 0-1 year of professional experience.

Dewberry

Entry Level Site/Civil Engineer

Glen Allen, VA · On-site

$78K - $81K/yr

... an investigative consumer report. These screenings will be conducted by Dewberry's background ... Our entry-level program comes together on a regular basis for professional development events and ...

Dewberry

Entry Level Architect

Danville, VA · On-site

$65K - $68K/yr

... an investigative consumer report. These screenings will be conducted by Dewberry's background ... Our entry-level program comes together on a regular basis for professional development events and ...

Dewberry

Entry Level Architect

Danville, VA

$65K - $68K/yr

... an investigative consumer report. These screenings will be conducted by Dewberry's background ... As an entry-level hire, you'll be part of a class of peers with 0-1 year of professional experience.

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All JobsInvestigator JobsEntry Level Investigator JobsEntry Level Investigator Jobs in Virginia

Entry Level Investigator information

See Virginia salary details

$31.7K

$74.7K

$129.9K

How much do entry level investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level investigator in Virginia is $74,678.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,000.00 and $97,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Investigator vs Private Investigator?

AspectEntry Level InvestigatorPrivate Investigator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some states may require licensingVaries by state; often requires licensing, background checks, and sometimes certifications
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, law enforcement support, corporate securityPrivate firms, individual clients, freelance work
Employer & Industry UsageLaw enforcement agencies, security firms, corporate securityPrivate investigation agencies, individuals, legal firms
Common Search & ComparisonEntry Level Investigator vs Private Investigator

Entry Level Investigators typically work in government or corporate settings, often with minimal licensing requirements, focusing on support roles. Private Investigators operate independently or within firms, often requiring licensing and working directly with clients. Both roles involve investigative work but differ mainly in employment setting and licensing requirements.

What is an entry level investigator?

Entry level investigators are professionals who assist in gathering facts, conducting research, and supporting higher-level investigators or law enforcement officers. They often work on background checks, interviews, surveillance, and collecting evidence for various cases such as insurance fraud, private investigations, or legal proceedings. These roles typically require strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and may involve on-the-job training. Entry level investigators help ensure that information collected is accurate and reliable for further processing or decision-making.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level investigators, and how can they effectively overcome them?

Entry level investigators often face challenges such as learning to manage multiple cases simultaneously, adapting to strict documentation protocols, and developing effective interview techniques. Navigating complex legal and ethical guidelines can also be demanding for those new to the field. To overcome these challenges, it's helpful to seek mentorship from experienced colleagues, stay organized using case management tools, and participate in regular training sessions to build both technical and interpersonal skills. Building strong communication within the investigative team also fosters collaboration and supports professional growth.

How to get experience as an entry level investigator?

Entry level investigators typically gain experience through internships, volunteer work, or entry-level security or law enforcement positions that develop skills in observation, interviewing, and report writing. Obtaining relevant certifications, such as a private investigator license or security training, can also enhance qualifications and practical knowledge in the field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level investigator?

To thrive as an Entry Level Investigator, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a relevant degree in criminal justice or a related field. Familiarity with case management software, research databases, and sometimes a private investigator license are typically required. Excellent communication, critical thinking, and discretion are vital soft skills for interviewing witnesses and handling sensitive information. These skills and qualifications ensure thorough, ethical investigations and effective case resolution.
What are the most commonly searched types of Investigator jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Investigator jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Investigator jobs in Virginia? For Entry Level Investigator jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Investigator jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Investigator jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Investigator jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level Investigator job openings:
Entry Level Investigator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Investigator job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,678 per year, or $35.9 per hour.

Fraud Investigator I

City of Alexandria

Amherst, VA

$18/hr

Part-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

City Of Alexandria (Louisiana) rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

448th of 841 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Amherst County Department of Social Services is hiring a Fraud Investigator. This is a part-time position for up to 20 hours per week. The hourly range for this position starts at $18.00/hour (Commensurate with Experience). 
Fraud Investigator I represents the entry level and works under close supervision while being trained in investigating fraud for a variety of social services and government assistance programs. The Fraud Investigator II is the full performance level for employees that are responsible for investigating fraud, calculating overpayments, initiating Administrative or Court Action on all Intentional Program Violations, establishing overpayment and overseeing collections. 
 
 
General Work Tasks: 
  • Receives, evaluates and tracks allegations of suspected fraud; 
  • Conducts an inquiry and investigation into the allegation in an effort to determine intent or no intent on the part of the client in all program areas; 
  • Determines an Administrative Disqualification or refers to the Commonwealth's Attorney Office; 
  • Calculates overpayments when the overpayment is discovered through a fraud investigation; 
  • Prepares reports; 
  • Reviews all new policy and procedures; and 
  • Maintains Fraud Free database tracking system.
 
Minimum Qualifications:
 
Some knowledge of investigative techniques; public assistance programs; legal proceedings; collection methods; self-defense; public assistance program policies and regulations; applicable laws, codes, policies and procedures, including civil and court procedures; basic human behavior; and social problems and resources.
 
Skill in operating a personal computer and the associated office and agency software.
 
Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing; perform addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division; calculate overpayments and track payments; testify in court proceedings; establish and maintain effective working relationships with clients, associates, law enforcement, other agencies and others; work independently; analyze data, recognize gaps and collect information; draw legal and supportable conclusions; prepare reports; apply principles of persuasion and/or influence; document data from interviews, forms, and documents; and organize own work schedule.
 
High school diploma supplemented by work experience and/or training involving human services program eligibility, case management work, or some legal work OR any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities.
  
Special Instructions to Applicants:
 
Applications for this position must be submitted electronically through this website. Mailed, emailed, faxed, or hand-delivered applications will not be accepted. This website will provide a confirmation receipt when the application is submitted for consideration.
 
Consideration for an interview is based solely on the information within the application and/or resume. Applicants are encouraged to provide a complete listing of relevant work experience and qualifications.

Employees may be eligible for telework after satisfactory meeting probationary requirements and at the discretion of the department. Telework schedules vary based on the needs of the agency.

Applicants may be subject to a Criminal History Background search, Central Registry search, DMV/driving record check, and/or pre-employment drug screen. The investigation may include: fingerprint checks (State Police, FBI), local agency checks, employment verification and references, verification of education (relevant to employment), credit checks (relevant to employment) and other checks requested by the hiring authority.

All offers of employment are contingent upon satisfactory results of the required checks and screenings.

May be required to report for shelter duty during community disasters and/or emergencies.


 

 
VDSS is one of the largest Commonwealth agencies, partnering with 120 local departments of social services, along with faith-based and non-profit organizations, to promote the well-being of children and families statewide. We proudly serve alongside nearly 13,000 state and local human services professionals throughout the Social Services System, who ensure that thousands of Virginia's most vulnerable citizen have access to best services and benefits available to them.



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