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Insurance Investigator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Surveillance Investigator

Des Moines, IA ยท On-site

$25 - $30/hr

... 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 ...

Surveillance Investigator

Des Moines, IA ยท On-site

$22 - $26/hr

Surveillance Investigator Job Location : Des Moines, IA - and surrounding area Job Type: Part-Time, ... Minimum Auto Insurance Coverage: $100,000 per person, $300,000 per accident bodily injury, and $50 ...

Surveillance Investigator Job Location : Des Moines, IA - and surrounding area Job Type: Part-Time, ... Minimum Auto Insurance Coverage: $100,000 per person, $300,000 per accident bodily injury, and $50 ...

Surveillance Investigator

Des Moines, IA ยท On-site

$22 - $26/hr

Surveillance Investigator Job Location : Des Moines, IA - and surrounding area Job Type: Part-Time, ... Minimum Auto Insurance Coverage: $100,000 per person, $300,000 per accident bodily injury, and $50 ...

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Showing results 1-20

Insurance Investigator information

See Iowa salary details

$12

$24

$36

How much do insurance investigator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for insurance investigator in Iowa is $24.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.53 and $29.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What do insurance investigators do?

An insurance investigator works for an insurance company looking into insurance claims, usually when the claim may be fraudulent. As an insurance claims investigator, you gather information from the insurance adjuster, law enforcement, witnesses, and the claimant. You also make investigative inquiries to determine if the claim is valid or fraudulent. Your job is to document all evidence and present the case to your employer so that the insurance company is protected from false claims.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an insurance investigator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Insurance Investigator, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a background in criminal justice, law, or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with case management software, database research tools, and surveillance equipment is typically required. Excellent communication, critical thinking, and integrity are crucial soft skills for interviewing witnesses and writing clear, objective reports. These abilities ensure accurate fraud detection, effective investigations, and compliance with legal standards in the insurance industry.

What are some of the common challenges faced by insurance investigators, and how can they be managed effectively?

Insurance Investigators often encounter challenges such as dealing with uncooperative claimants, navigating complex regulations, and managing a heavy caseload. Building strong communication and interpersonal skills can help when interviewing witnesses or claimants. Staying organized and up-to-date with the latest industry regulations ensures compliance and efficiency. Collaborating closely with claims adjusters, law enforcement, and legal teams also helps in resolving complex cases and maintaining workflow balance.

What is the difference between Insurance Investigator vs Claims Adjuster?

AspectInsurance InvestigatorClaims Adjuster
Required CredentialsLicenses, sometimes certifications in investigation or insuranceLicenses, certifications in claims handling or insurance
Work EnvironmentField investigations, interviews, surveillanceOffice-based, claims assessment, site visits
Employer & Industry UsageInsurance companies, private investigation firmsInsurance companies, third-party administrators
Common Search & ComparisonYesNo

Insurance Investigators focus on uncovering fraud and verifying claims through investigations, often working in the field. Claims Adjusters evaluate and settle insurance claims, primarily working in offices or on-site. While both roles require insurance knowledge and sometimes similar certifications, their daily tasks and work environments differ significantly.

What do you need to be an insurance investigator?

To become an insurance investigator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some roles preferring or requiring a college degree in criminal justice, law enforcement, or a related field. Prior experience in law enforcement, claims adjusting, or related investigative work is often beneficial, along with strong analytical skills and knowledge of insurance policies. Licensing or certification may be required depending on the state or employer.

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Insurance Investigator jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Insurance Investigator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Insurance Investigator jobs in IA?

For Insurance Investigator jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Insurance Investigator job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,347 per year, or $24.2 per hour.

Surveillance Investigator

VRC Investigations

Des Moines, IA โ€ข On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 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 between $25 - $30 per hour.
For more information, please visit our web site located at https://vrcinvestigations.com/