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Freelance Investigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ProPublica

Freelance Pitch Form

We're open to investigations that are revelatory or substantially advance what is known on a ... Freelancers are independent contractors and will not be treated by ProPublica as employees for any ...

City of New York

Supervising Investigator

Manhattan, NY · Hybrid

We also administer the Freelance Isn't Free Act (FIFA) program, which assists freelance workers who ... OLPS is seeking a Supervising Investigator to supervise 4-5 staff members who investigate potential ...

City of New York

Supervising Investigator

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

We also administer the Freelance Isn't Free Act (FIFA) program, which assists freelance workers who ... OLPS is seeking a Supervising Investigator to supervise 4-5 staff members who investigate potential ...

City of New York

Supervising Investigator

Manhattan, NY · Hybrid

We also administer the Freelance Isn't Free Act (FIFA) program, which assists freelance workers who ... OLPS is seeking a Supervising Investigator to supervise 4-5 staff members who investigate potential ...

Jobgether

$6 - $65/hr

This freelance opportunity is ideal for experienced law enforcement professionals who want to ... Reviewing AI-generated content related to criminal investigations, patrol operations, incident ...

City of New York

Investigator - Worker Protection

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$16.50 - $18.75/hr

We also administer the Freelance Isn't Free Act (FIFA) program, which assists freelance workers who ... OLPS is seeking an Investigator to investigate potential violations of NYC worker protection laws.

Cheddar

Freelance Anchor/Reporter

New York, NY

$65 - $75/hr

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR We seek a talented and versatile Freelance Reporter/Anchor to join our team ... Investigate and report on a wide range of business and technology stories, including breaking news ...

Cheddar

Freelance Anchor/Reporter

New York, NY · On-site

$65 - $75/hr

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR We seek a talented and versatile Freelance Reporter/Anchor to join our team ... Investigate and report on a wide range of business and technology stories, including breaking news ...

City of New York

Investigator - Worker Protection

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$16.50 - $18.75/hr

We also administer the Freelance Isn't Free Act (FIFA) program, which assists freelance workers who ... OLPS is seeking an Investigator to investigate potential violations of NYC worker protection laws.

ezHIRE

Risk & Safety Freelancer

Deerfield Beach, FL · On-site

$50K - $60K/yr

Investigate workplace incidents, near misses, and safety concerns. * Identify root causes and ... Flexible, project-based freelance engagement. * Opportunity to work with multiple clients and ...

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Freelance Investigator information

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$32K

$75.3K

$131K

How much do freelance investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Freelance Investigator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance Investigator, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and experience in investigative techniques, often supported by a background in criminal justice or related fields. Familiarity with surveillance technology, research databases, and legal compliance systems is highly valuable, and some investigators obtain relevant certifications like the Certified Professional Investigator (CPI). Excellent communication, discretion, persistence, and time management help build trust with clients and efficiently handle multiple cases. These skills ensure high-quality, lawful investigations and enable freelancers to deliver accurate, timely results to clients.

How much do self-employed private investigators make?

Self-employed private investigators typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of cases. Income can vary widely based on the investigator's reputation, client base, and the types of investigations they conduct.

How much is a PI for a day?

A freelance investigator, or private investigator (PI), typically charges between $50 and $150 per hour, which can amount to approximately $400 to $1,200 for a full day of 8 hours. Rates vary based on experience, location, and the complexity of the case, and PIs often require contracts and may charge additional fees for expenses or specialized tools.

What is a freelance investigator?

A freelance investigator is an independent professional who conducts investigations such as background checks, surveillance, or research for clients on a contract basis. They often work remotely, utilize tools like surveillance equipment and databases, and may need relevant certifications or licenses depending on the jurisdiction.

What are some common challenges faced by Freelance Investigators, and how can they overcome them?

Freelance Investigators often face challenges such as managing unpredictable workloads, securing consistent clients, and handling difficult or sensitive cases independently. They must also stay up-to-date with changing laws and technology relevant to investigations, which requires ongoing education and adaptability. Networking with legal professionals, joining industry associations, and maintaining proper documentation can help build credibility and a steady client base. By staying organized and maintaining strong professional standards, Freelance Investigators can overcome these challenges and build a successful, reputable practice.

What is a Freelance Investigator job?

A Freelance Investigator is a self-employed professional who conducts research, gathers evidence, and performs investigative tasks for clients. They may work on cases involving background checks, fraud investigations, missing persons, or corporate inquiries. Unlike traditional private investigators employed by agencies, freelance investigators operate independently and take on assignments based on their expertise. They typically use public records, surveillance, interviews, and other investigative techniques to uncover information. Their clients may include law firms, businesses, private individuals, or insurance companies.

More about Freelance Investigator jobs
What cities are hiring for Freelance Investigator jobs? Cities with the most Freelance Investigator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Investigator jobs? The most popular types of Investigator jobs are:
What states have the most Freelance Investigator jobs? States with the most job openings for Freelance Investigator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Investigator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Investigator jobs are:
Freelance Investigator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Investigator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 61% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 23% Contract. Highlights an 60% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 38% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,325 per year, or $36.2 per hour.
Freelance Writer - East Bay

Freelance Writer - East Bay

Embarcadero Media Foundation

Palo Alto, CA • On-site

$25 - $32/hr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Description:

Embarcadero Media, an award-winning, independent media company in the San Francisco Bay Area, is looking for freelance writers with excellent reporting skills, storytelling flair and well-honed journalistic instincts. Writing assignments cover everything from city government and community news to arts, food and human-interest stories, and from home and real estate features to in-depth investigations. Freelancers are also encouraged to pitch story ideas based on their areas of expertise and knowledge of East Bay and Peninsula cities.

The publications for which freelancers write include Pleasanton Weekly, DanvilleSan Ramon.com Livermore Vine, The Six Fifty, Palo Alto Weekly, Redwood City Pulse, Mountain View Voice and The Almanac.

Freelance writers need to be reliable, independent, sharp, communicative and able to meet deadlines without exception. Some journalism experience is preferred. Residency in the Bay Area is required, preferably along the Peninsula or in the East Bay. Pay rates depend upon experience and the type of assignment.

Interested applicants should attach a resume, cover letter and several of your best clips. Please note in your letter if there is a particular publication for which you'd like to write.

Requirements: