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How much do entry level surveillance jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level surveillance in the United States is $23.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $25.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Surveillance vs Entry Level Security Guard?

AspectEntry Level SurveillanceEntry Level Security Guard
Required CertificationsBasic security or surveillance training, sometimes no certification neededSecurity guard license or certification often required
Work EnvironmentMonitoring security cameras, analyzing footage, working in control roomsPatrolling premises, monitoring entrances, responding to incidents
Employer & Industry UsageBusinesses, retail, government agencies, security firmsCommercial, retail, industrial, event venues

Entry Level Surveillance roles focus on monitoring security footage and analyzing data, often requiring specific surveillance training. Entry Level Security Guard positions involve physical patrols and on-site security, typically requiring a security license. Both roles serve the security industry but differ in work environment and certification needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Surveillance professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Surveillance professional, you need keen observational skills, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with CCTV systems, video monitoring software, and basic reporting tools is typically required. Strong situational awareness, reliability, and effective communication are important soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for accurately detecting and reporting suspicious activities to help ensure the security and safety of the premises.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level surveillance professionals, and how can they be managed?

Entry-level surveillance professionals often encounter challenges such as long or irregular working hours, maintaining constant focus during monotonous shifts, and adapting to rapidly changing situations. Developing strong observation skills and attention to detail is crucial, as is learning to document incidents accurately and promptly. Many organizations provide mentoring and ongoing training to help new team members build confidence, manage stress, and stay current with surveillance technologies and protocols.

What are entry level surveillance jobs?

Entry level surveillance jobs involve monitoring activities for security and safety purposes in various settings such as retail stores, casinos, or office buildings. These positions typically use cameras and other equipment to observe premises, report suspicious behavior, and help prevent theft or other incidents. No prior experience is often required, but attention to detail and the ability to follow protocols are important. These roles can provide a stepping stone to more advanced security or law enforcement careers.
More about Entry Level Surveillance jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Surveillance jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Surveillance job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Surveillance jobs? The most popular types of Surveillance jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Surveillance jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Surveillance jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Surveillance jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Surveillance jobs are:
Entry Level Surveillance jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Surveillance job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 14% Full Time, 81% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,820 per year, or $23.5 per hour.

Surveillance Investigator- Entry Level

CoventBridge Group

Springfield, IL • On-site

$25 - $27/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

CoventBridge Group rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

252nd of 425 rated business services

Job description

Overview
Surveillance Investigator - Entry Level
Springfield, IL Area
Ever thought about becoming a Private Investigator?
Ready to launch your career in a fast-growing, high-impact industry? Get paid to learn real-world skills like fraud investigation and covert surveillance - no experience needed.
We're hiring Full-Time Entry-Level Field Investigators, and we'll set you up for success with our industry-leading, fully paid training program. Your path to an exciting investigative career starts here.
At this time, CoventBridge is not considering candidates who require visa sponsorship, currently or in the future, including but not limited to H-1B, H-2B, E-3, TN, O-1, F-1 (OPT/CPT, or J-1 Visa Statuses.)
Responsibilities/ Requirements
A Day in the Life:
Your daily activities will vary based on your specific assignment. These may include:
  • Case Prep: Use social media and database tools to conduct initial research and gather intel on subjects.
  • Surveillance in the Field: Carry out discreet, mobile and stationary surveillance-track movements and capture high-quality video evidence.
  • Reporting: Write thorough, court-ready reports that clearly document key activities and findings.
  • Evidence Submission: Wrap up each day by uploading reports and video footage from your personal laptop.
  • Team Collaboration: Stay connected with your Investigations Manager for ongoing support, guidance, and mentorship.

Essentials for this Role:
  • Driver's License: Active driver's license that is not currently suspended or revoked.
  • Personal Vehicle: A well-maintained vehicle that is always reliable (preferably with tinted windows). Proof of auto insurance coverage is required.
  • Travel Expectations: While we aim to keep assignments within a reasonable drive of your residence, occasional further travel and overnight stays (covered by the company) may be required.
  • Technology: A reliable laptop, cell phone, and internet service are needed for communication and administrative tasks.
  • Required Skills: Strong computer & internet proficiency. Excellent communication, verbal & writing skills. Possess or is willing to purchase covert camera, digital video camera with uploading capabilities, and laptop computer with Windows Operating System with access to Microsoft Word

Working Conditions
  • Surveillance cases have variable start and end times with the 1st day typically scheduled for 6:00AM. End time can vary depending on activity.
  • Weekends/holidays are common workdays as claimants are more likely to be active.
  • This is an independent role often requiring long hours alone in your vehicle, regardless of weather conditions.
  • Must remain alert with no external distractions, ready to use videography equipment to document subjects.

Does This Sound Like You?
Great investigators come from all walks of life. You don't need a traditional background to succeed here-just the right mindset and some transferable skills. If any of these sound familiar, you might be a great fit:
  • Military or Law Enforcement Experience - You're calm under pressure, observant, and know how to assess a situation quickly and effectively.
  • Security or Loss Prevention - You've spent time keeping an eye out for the unexpected-and you know how to spot it when it happens.
  • Private Investigator or Intelligence Work - Surveillance, discretion, and detailed reporting? You've been there, done that.
  • Legal or Paralegal Background - You're no stranger to research, documentation, and working within strict guidelines.
  • Forensics or Evidence Collection - Precision, organization, and a sharp eye for detail come naturally to you.
  • Driving, Delivery, or Travel-Based Jobs - You're used to life on the road, staying alert, and adapting to new environments.
  • Tech & Photography Enthusiasts - You love working with gadgets, cameras, or video gear and can spot the details others might miss.

Benefits
Compensation & Perks That Work For You:
We believe great work deserves great rewards. Here's what you can expect when you join our team:
Competitive Pay:
  • Earn $25-$27 per hour
  • Paid training

On-the-Road Support:
  • Monthly vehicle allowance
  • Company fuel card
  • Company-issued cell phone
  • Monthly internet stipend
  • Travel & report writing compensation
  • Fast, hassle-free expense reimbursements (minimal out-of-pocket costs)

Full Coverage Benefits:
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Employer-paid life insurance, short-term & long-term disability

Future-Focused Perks:
  • Company-matching 401(k) to help you build for the future
  • Paid time off to recharge and reset
  • Company-paid investigator licensing fees

Career Growth:
  • Ongoing paid training and advancement opportunities to help you grow your skills and your career

The salary range for this role is $25-$27 per hour. This is the lowest to highest salary we in good faith believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting. We may ultimately pay more or less than the posted range, and the range may be modified in the future. An employee's pay position within the salary range will be based on several factors including, but not limited to, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, geographic location, performance, and business or organizational needs.
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
About Us:
CoventBridge Group is the global leader in full-service investigations providing: Surveillance, SIU and Compliance, Claims Investigation, Counter-Fraud Programs, Desktop Investigations, Social Media, Record Retrieval, Canvasses and Vendor Management programs. The company provides top tier data privacy and security practices, deploys robust case management technology customized to clients' needs and delivers worldwide coverage via its 1000 employees and affiliates worldwide.
CoventBridge Group is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, caste, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics and maintains a drug-free workplace.
CoventBridge Group is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. As part of this commitment, CoventBridge will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact: Human Resources; 888-932-7364; humanresources@coventbridge.com.
CoventBridge (USA) Inc. Illinois License # 117.001549

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