2

Entry Level Investigator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Staff Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

  • Retirement

... Entry Level Staff/Project Engineer positions to support a myriad of clients and exciting projects ... Our services include assisting our clients with field investigations of corrosion phenomena ...

Entry Level Staff Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$70 - $100/hr

  • Retirement

Our services include assisting our clients with field investigations of corrosion phenomena ... Bachelor's degree in engineering or science - required. * Entry level to up to 5 years of ...

Entry Level Staff Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

  • Retirement

Our services include assisting our clients with field investigations of corrosion phenomena ... Bachelor's degree in engineering or science - required. * Entry level to up to 5 years of ...

... Entry Level Land Surveyor to serve our southeastern territory. Applicant must be able to work in a ... an investigative consumer report. These screenings will be conducted by Dewberry's background ...

... Entry Level Land Surveyor to serve our southeastern territory. Applicant must be able to work in a ... an investigative consumer report. These screenings will be conducted by Dewberry's background ...

Showing results 21-40

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 19, 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 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 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 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.

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.

How to start a career in investigation?

To start a career as an entry-level investigator, gain relevant education such as a high school diploma or college degree in criminal justice or a related field. Develop skills in observation, communication, and report writing, and consider obtaining certifications like the Private Investigator License if required in your area. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level security roles can also be beneficial.

What are the most commonly searched types of Investigator jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of 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:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Investigator job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,678 per year, or $35.9 per hour.

Entry Level Staff Engineer

KTA-Tator, Inc.

Reston, VA • On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

*Follow this link for a realistic job preview and videos of what it's like to work at KTA!* : https://kta.com/working-at-kta/
Elzly Technology Corporation (Elzly) is seeking to fill multiple full-time Entry Level Staff/Project Engineer positions to support a myriad of clients and exciting projects, with level of responsibility matched to relevant experience. The open positions would be at Elzly’s Reston, VA office. Elzly is a growing consulting-engineering firm that provides technical and subject matter expertise for the prevention and control of corrosion. Our services include assisting our clients with field investigations of corrosion phenomena, research and testing of materials, developing training materials, and development of specifications. Culturally, we focus on providing our customers a valuable service while creating an enjoyable and professional organization, allowing employees maximum opportunity to express their individual talents and participate in professional development activities through in-house, hands-on, formal training, and certifications.
JOB DESCRIPTION:

  • A successful candidate will work with other technical staff on various projects for the Department of Defense and other government and commercial clients. Projects the Engineer will immediately support tangibly improve military readiness by addressing and preventing corrosion on air, ground, and sea weapons systems, naval vessels as well as infrastructure assets.
  • Duties vary by project assignment; examples include assisting with field inspections and demonstrations, proof of concept testing, research/literature reviews, data entry/analysis, development of presentations, specification writing, design of prototype devis, and project management/oversight.
  • As the successful candidate gains experience at Elzly, they can expect increasing levels of technical and management responsibility on larger and more complex projects, and more client interaction (position responsibilities and compensation will be commensurate with successful candidate’s level of experience). 

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

  • Travel will be required and varies by job assignment (expected minimum of 33%) – required.
    • Travel will be local (greater Delaware, Maryland, Virginia area) and nationwide, with the possibility of international travel based on work assignments.
  • Candidate must be a U.S. Citizen and be willing to pursue (or have) a Government security clearance  – required.
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering or science – required.
  • Entry level to up to 5 years of experience are being considered.
  • Experience with industrial coating application and/or inspections and cathodic protection (CP) design and/or inspection – desired.
  • Experience in corrosion, coatings, or materials science in addition to prior Military experience – highly desired.
  • Candidates must have excellent written and/or verbal communication skills; writing samples will be requested if not submitted with the resume – required.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office in addition to the ability to work effectively both collaboratively and independently, including in a remote environment – required.
  • The candidate should have demonstratable experience with the use of basic hand tools and familiarity with electronic and mechanical systems, and laboratory test equipment – highly desired.
  • Experience with LabVIEW, CAD/3D modeling, Minitab, computer programming, and electronic circuitry – desired.
This position at Elzly will be performed primarily at our Reston, VA office, as well as at our customer’s facilities and other off-site locations (e.g., military installations, bridges/highway structures, etc.). Elzly has a telework structure that may be offered to motivated individuals and self-starters commensurate with the ability of the candidate to work independently and effectively in a remote environment. The expectation is that a majority of the work for this position will take place in one of our offices, or at our client sites allowing the successful candidate to work collaboratively with other Elzly staff.
 
Salary range: $70,000-$100,000 annually with comprehensive benefits package. Salary is based on experience and position level.

Physical Requirements
Close, distance, color, and depth vision, manual dexterity (to handle small objects, instruments, or gages), ability to adjust focus, comfortable working at heights and working from a ladder or lift occasionally, ability to safely lift 20 pounds, walk on uneven ground or terrain, work in confined spaces, crawl for extended periods of time, enter 24 inch diameter space, hear, work outside (including inclement weather), wear a respirator, speak and smell.
 
Elzly offers competitive pay, great benefits, including two fantastic retirement plans (ESOP & 401K), and is a casual, friendly workplace, where all employees are treated with dignity and respect. We are proud to be a 100% employee-owned company voted a 2024 Top Workplace in Pittsburgh! KTA is a company run with family-inspired values and ethics, where diverse perspectives, experiences, and capabilities are embraced and valued. The employees of KTA are dedicated to making each other, the company and our clients successful. We believe that serving our clients as we want to be served results in long-lasting business relationships. We are committed to helping you take your career to a new and exciting level. At KTA, you’ll work, learn from, and become one of the best in the industry.
 
 

KTA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment based on merit, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected Veteran Status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. KTA is a Standing Firm Company. Elzly Technology Corporation (Elzly) is a wholly-owned subsidiary of KTA-Tator, Inc. (KTA).

Links:

KTA's Equal Employment Opportunity Policy Statement

Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal

The Family and Medical Leave Act

Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision

Notice of E-Verify Participation

E-Verify Right to Work

We strive to make this site accessible to any and all users. If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you have
the right to request an accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access our career center and application process as a result of your disability or if you have Equal Employment Opportunity questions. To request an accommodation, please contact us at info@kta.com

Powered by JazzHR

pcdqxYjRf9