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Insurance Investigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Investigator 2 - NY HELPS

Albany, NY · On-site

$67K - $83K/yr

Types of Investigative experience that could be considered qualifying: experience in such positions as police detective, insurance investigator, licensed and registered private investigator, federal ...

Types of Investigative experience that could be considered qualifying: experience in such positions as police detective, insurance investigator, licensed and registered private investigator, federal ...

VRC is seeking qualified candidates to conduct multi-line insurance investigations suspected of insurance fraud or other irregularities as requested by our clients by obtaining in-person interviews ...

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Insurance Investigator information

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How much do insurance investigator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for insurance investigator in the United States is $25.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.88 and $31.73 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 does an insurance investigator do?

An insurance investigator examines insurance claims to verify their validity and detect fraud. They gather evidence, interview witnesses, review documents, and may visit claim sites, often using investigative tools and techniques to assess the legitimacy of claims and support insurance companies' decisions.

What skills do insurance investigators need?

Insurance investigators need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and good communication abilities to gather and evaluate evidence. They often use interview techniques, surveillance methods, and may require knowledge of insurance policies and legal procedures. Technical skills with databases and reporting tools are also important for documenting findings accurately.

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 highest paying investigator job?

Senior or specialized insurance investigators, such as fraud investigators or forensic investigators, tend to have the highest salaries in the field. These roles often require advanced experience, certifications, and sometimes law enforcement or legal backgrounds, with salaries reaching six figures in some cases.

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 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.

How do I become an insurance claims investigator?

To become an insurance claims investigator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some roles preferring or requiring a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, law enforcement, or a related field. Relevant experience in law enforcement, claims adjusting, or investigations is often beneficial, and obtaining certifications such as the Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) can enhance job prospects. Strong analytical, communication, and computer skills are also important for success in this role.
What cities are hiring for Insurance Investigator jobs? Cities with the most Insurance Investigator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Insurance Investigator jobs? The most popular types of Insurance Investigator jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Insurance Investigator jobs? The top employers for Insurance Investigator jobs are:
What states have the most Insurance Investigator jobs? States with the most job openings for Insurance Investigator jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Insurance Investigator jobs? For Insurance Investigator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Insurance Investigator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, and 24% Part Time. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,602 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

Investigator 2 - NY HELPS

StateJobsNY

Albany, NY • On-site

$67K - $83K/yr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Investigates reported violations of law, rule, regulation, or Department policy by reviewing documents, conducting surveillance, collecting evidence, and interviewing relevant individuals.

  • Prepares factual, concise, and timely written reports of information gathered during investigations and discusses findings and recommendations with supervisors and stakeholders.

  • May supervise Investigator 1's by determining investigative priorities, developing plans and standards for investigations, and providing guidance to ensure investigations are complete.


Job description

Duties Description Duties Description
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Office of Internal Investigation's (OII) mission is to ensure that allegations of improper conduct are investigated thoroughly and impartially, protecting the interests of the DEC and upholding the rights and obligations of DEC employees. Duties for this position include but are not limited to:
• Reviews assigned cases or complaints to determine the applicable section of law, rule, regulation, or Department policy that have been violated.
• Investigates reported violations of law, rule, regulation, or Department policy to include review of electronic and paper documents, conduct physical surveillance, and collection of other information and evidence. Meets with and interviews witnesses, complainants, and other appropriate individuals to obtain information related to the investigation.
• May supervise Investigator 1's and determine investigative priorities and staff assignments. Develops plans and standards for subordinate staff for conducting investigations. Monitors and provides guidance to subordinate staff to ensure that investigations are complete, and allegations are fully addressed.
• Plans the scope and method of an investigation based on office policy, the accessibility of information and the importance of the case.
• Obtains statements from individuals in an appropriate format, to include a full description of the facts needed to support the investigation.
• Reviews documents to extract pertinent information and verifies the validity of information obtained through comparison with other sources or consultation with agency program staff.
• Obtains and safeguards evidence according to agency procedures and legal requirements.
• Conducts in-depth analysis of agency records and investigative data to derive pertinent findings related to violations of law, rule, regulation, or Department policy.
• Prepares factual, concise, and timely written reports of information gathered during an investigation and discusses investigative findings and recommendations with supervisors and other stakeholders.
• Provides technical assistance to other divisions and maintains rapport to ensure cooperation in the conduct of investigations.
• Testifies at administrative hearings regarding the details of investigations and related conclusions.
• Participates in joint operations with other Investigators to aid with time sensitive investigations.
Minimum Qualifications Reassignment - Currently in the title of Investigator 2 and an employee of DEC
or
Reinstatement Eligible - Previously held the title on a permanent competitive basis or held a title as indicated under the transfer eligible section on a permanent competitive basis.
70.4 or 70.1 Transfer Eligible
Provisional Qualifications: One year of permanent service as an Investigator 1.
This title is part of the New York Hiring for Emergency Limited Placement Statewide Program (NY HELPS).
For the duration of the NY HELPS Program, this title may be filled via a non-competitive appointment, which means no examination is required but all candidates must meet the minimum qualifications of the title for which they apply.
To be eligible for appointment under NY HELPS, candidates must meet the minimum qualifications below:
NON-COMPETITIVE MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Six years of experience in a field investigative position conducting interviews of witnesses and others, taking written statements and affidavits, collecting and analyzing physical and documentary evidence, and preparing detailed written reports of investigative findings. Types of Investigative experience that could be considered qualifying: experience in such positions as police detective, insurance investigator, licensed and registered private investigator, federal investigator, state investigator, municipal investigator, child protective services investigator, in an investigative position involving trial preparations and detailed reports, or investigations within a branch of the Armed Services are examples which meet the Minimum Qualifications. Examples of non-qualifying experience include but are not limited to: experience in routine police patrol work, security guard or related security position, tax collector, collector of delinquent accounts, credit checker, legal assistant/attorney, hotel or store detective, loss prevention officer, parole officer, correction officer, guard, inspector, or experience in adoption and/or foster care placement.
An associate degree in criminal justice, cyber security, law enforcement, police science, criminal justice administration, criminology, criminal investigation, police studies, public justice, forensic accounting, forensic psychology, forensic science, economic crime management, or homeland security can substitute for two years of specialized experience; and a bachelor's degree or higher in criminal justice, cyber security, law enforcement, police science, criminal justice administration, criminology, criminal investigation, police studies, public justice, forensic accounting, forensic psychology, forensic science, economic crime management, or homeland security can substitute for four years of specialized experience.
Preferred Qualifications
The ideal candidate possesses sound judgement, strong oral and written communications skills, and has advanced experience working with Microsoft Excel for data analysis. Additionally, the ideal candidate is a self-starter, works well independently and as part of a team, and is capable of handling a demanding caseload.
Additional Comments Must have a valid driver's license.
Travel may be required.
Overnight travel may be required.
Telecommuting may be available up to 50% of work schedule, will be discussed at interview.
Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity.
Name Marline Agnew
Telephone (518) 402-9273
Fax 518-402-9038
Email Address PostingResponses@dec.ny.gov
Address
Street 625 Broadway
Personnel, 10th Floor
City Albany
State NY
Zip Code 12233
Notes on Applying Please email/mail your resume to the above. Be sure to include Posting #26-218215 on your letter/resume and also in the subject line of the email or it may not be accepted.