1

Internal Affairs Investigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$37.78 - $46.98/hr

Candidates must not have any active Internal Affairs investigations pending at the time of application or throughout the hiring process. Furthermore, applicants must not have separated from any ...

Employment Investigator

Denver, CO ยท On-site

$78K - $119K/yr

... internal affairs, investigative reporting/writing, EEOC investigations * Knowledge of Microsoft Office suite * Strong analytical, fact-finding and evidence gathering skills * Exceptional report ...

Employment Investigator

Denver, CO ยท On-site

$78K - $119K/yr

... internal affairs, investigative reporting/writing, EEOC investigations * Knowledge of Microsoft Office suite * Strong analytical, fact-finding and evidence gathering skills * Exceptional report ...

Criminal Investigator

Anchorage, AK ยท On-site +1

$106K - $158K/yr

... internal affairs investigations into alleged misconduct by CGIS personnel; carrying out investigations into violations of federal laws and statutes under the maritime jurisdiction of the U.S. Coast ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Internal Affairs Investigator information

See salary details

$35K

$56.1K

$101K

How much do internal affairs investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for internal affairs investigator in the United States is $56,057.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,500.00 and $47,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an internal affairs investigator?

To thrive as an Internal Affairs Investigator, you need a solid background in law enforcement procedures, investigative techniques, and a relevant bachelor's degree, often in criminal justice or a related field. Familiarity with case management systems, evidence tracking software, and sometimes specialized certifications like Certified Internal Affairs Investigator (CIAI) are common requirements. Exceptional integrity, discretion, analytical thinking, and strong interpersonal communication skills help build trust and ensure fair investigations. These skills are crucial for maintaining organizational accountability, upholding ethical standards, and ensuring public confidence in law enforcement agencies.

What is the difference between Internal Affairs Investigator vs Police Detective?

AspectInternal Affairs InvestigatorPolice Detective
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED, often a police academy certification, and law enforcement experienceHigh school diploma or GED, police academy training, law enforcement experience
Work EnvironmentLaw enforcement agencies, investigating internal misconductField and office, investigating crimes and suspects
Employer & IndustryPolice departments, government agenciesPolice departments, law enforcement agencies
Common Search & ComparisonYesNo

Internal Affairs Investigators focus on investigating misconduct within police departments, ensuring integrity and accountability. Police Detectives investigate crimes, gather evidence, and apprehend suspects. While both roles require law enforcement experience and similar certifications, their work environments and primary responsibilities differ significantly.

How to become an internal affairs investigator?

To become an internal affairs investigator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with many positions requiring a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, law enforcement, or a related field. Relevant experience in law enforcement or investigations, along with strong analytical and communication skills, is often required. Some agencies may also require specialized training or certification in investigations or internal affairs procedures.

What does an internal affairs investigator do?

An internal affairs investigator examines allegations of misconduct, corruption, or violations of policies within an organization, often in law enforcement or government agencies. They gather evidence, interview witnesses, and prepare reports to determine if disciplinary action or criminal charges are warranted. The role requires strong investigative skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of legal procedures.

What is an internal affairs investigator?

Internal Affairs Investigators are law enforcement professionals responsible for investigating allegations of misconduct, corruption, or violations of policy within a police department or other law enforcement agency. Their primary role is to ensure that officers adhere to departmental rules and uphold ethical standards. They conduct interviews, gather evidence, and prepare reports to determine if disciplinary action is necessary. By holding officers accountable, Internal Affairs Investigators help maintain public trust and integrity within the department.

What are some common challenges faced by internal affairs investigators during internal investigations?

Internal Affairs Investigators often encounter challenges such as maintaining objectivity and confidentiality while investigating colleagues, which can create tension within the department. Balancing thorough investigation with respect for due process and employee rights is essential, as is managing potential resistance or reluctance from witnesses. Investigators must also remain up-to-date with departmental policies and legal requirements to ensure fair and compliant outcomes. These challenges require strong ethical standards, communication skills, and resilience.

How much does an internal affairs investigator make?

An internal affairs investigator typically earns between $50,000 and $90,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and agency size. Salaries may increase with specialized training, certifications, and years of service.
More about Internal Affairs Investigator jobs

What cities are hiring for Internal Affairs Investigator jobs?

Cities with the most Internal Affairs Investigator job openings:

Who are the top companies hiring for Internal Affairs Investigator jobs?

The top employers for Internal Affairs Investigator jobs are:

What states have the most Internal Affairs Investigator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Internal Affairs Investigator jobs include:

Infographic showing various Internal Affairs Investigator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,057 per year, or $27 per hour.

Police Officer (Certified)

City of Gainesville, GA

Gainesville, GA โ€ข On-site

$27.83/hr

Full-time

Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Salary: $27.83 Hourly
Location : 701 Queen City Parkway SW, Gainesville, GA
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: 01007
Department: Police Department
Opening Date: 01/13/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
Summary
Summary
Responsible for compliance with all departmental policies and procedures, as well as State and Federal laws and regulations, and for achieving the primary/fundamental goals and objectives of maintaining law and order, preventing crimes, protecting life and property, and assuring that all services are delivered in a safe, effective, professional, timely, and efficient manner. When serving in the Operations Bureau officers shall be assigned to the Uniform Patrol Division. When serving in the Support Services Bureau officers shall be assigned to the warrant unit.
****THIS POSTING IS ONLY FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH A POST CERTIFIEDGEORGIA BASIC LAW ENFORCEMENT PBLE NUMBER****
***ALL OTHERS PLEASE APPLY FOR NON-CERTIFED POLICE OFFICER****
PLEASE READ THIS SECTION CAREFULLY AS IT CONTAINS VERY IMPORTANT INFORMATION. FAILURE TO FULLY COMPLETE AND UPLOAD REQUIRED DOCUMENTS MAY RESULT IN DISQUALIFICATION. PLEASE CONTACT INTERNAL AFFAIRS AT 770-535-5625 IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS.
STARTING SALARY (CERTIFIED): Hourly: $27.83
Base Annual: $60,780.72
+ 10 Paid Holidays ($2,266.40)___
Annual with Holiday: $63,007.12
IF YOU ARE CERTIFIED, YOU MUST HAVE A GEORGIA POST BASIC PEACE OFFICER CERTIFICATION TO APPLY FOR THIS POSITION.
Application Process
In order for applicants to be considered, a complete online application and required documents (uploaded in NEOGOV) must be submitted by the specified deadline date (if any). Your application and documents will be reviewed by Human Resources, Police Department Internal Affairs Unit, the Chief of Police and/or a panel appointed by the Chief of Police.
Failure to submit a complete application may disqualify you from further consideration.
Please include 10 years of employment history on your application (if applicable).
Applications will remain valid for 12 months. If you wish to be considered after the 12 month period you must re-apply and submit a new application.
The following documents must be uploaded with your online application. At this time, do not upload any other documents except those listed below. We may ask for additional documents at a later stage in the process.
  1. Driver's License
  2. Proof of POST Basic Peace Officer Certification
  3. Background Check Release Form (click on the below link to download the form)

Recruiting Process
The Police Officer recruiting process includes the steps listed below. Applicants must pass each phase before moving to the next.
  1. Initial Screening of application and documents by Human Resources.
  2. Initial interview with Police Department Staff charged with reviewing applications.
  3. Background Investigation
    A thorough background investigation of all selected eligible applicants will be conducted. The background investigation includes but is not limited to some or all of the following: contacting past employers, work and personal references listed on application (to include developed references), education, criminal history, motor vehicle record, detection of deception examination* and psychological evaluation. A ride-along will also be required. Applicants may be disqualified based upon standards specified under O.C.G.A. ยง 35-8-8.
    The City of Gainesville reserves the right to disqualify any applicant based on information discovered during the background investigation. Standard City of Gainesville and Gainesville Police Department hiring practices shall apply to all applicants.
    *Detection of deception examination questions will be drawn from the following areas: driving record, criminal activity, illegal drugs, thefts, and work record.
  4. Drug Screen, Physical Evaluation, and Psychological Testing.
  5. POST Approval. If certified, applicant will be subject to records review by POST.
Please note the recruiting process may take up to 45 days.
Disqualifiers
In an effort to maintain an equitable standard for hiring applicants for the position of Police Officer, certain standards and guidelines have been established. The City of Gainesville has very strict internal guidelines which may result in disqualification of a potential Police Officer. You will be required to answer our supplemental questions to determine if you meet the minimum standards. If you do not meet these minimum standards, your application will not be considered.
If you feel you may be disqualified, or if you have other concerns, do not complete this application without speaking to an Internal Affairs Investigator. You may contact an Internal Affairs Investigator at 770-534-5252.
The supplemental questions are only examples of situations that may result in applicant disqualification. The City of Gainesville reserves the right to disqualify any applicant based on any pertinent information obtained during the background investigation process. Factors such as the nature of the action or behavior and when it occurred will be considered. Furthermore, consideration will be given to criminal actions or behaviors that could have resulted in a conviction, if caught.
Any attempt to conceal or misrepresent information during the hiring process
Job Duties
Arrests any suspects found in the commission of crimes; completes arrest reports and transports suspects to detention facilities; attempts to arbitrate disputes.
Writes reports on various calls answered indicating the natures of calls and any findings at the scenes; attends public gatherings to maintain order.
Prepares evidence for issuance of warrants; serves warrants if applicable, advises all suspects of their rights; assures the chain of custody of evidence is kept; testifies in court as necessary.
Writes reports on results of investigations, completes incident and accident reports, or other official documents as necessary; files all reports to appropriate supervisor.
Administers CPR and first aid when appropriate; answers any questions from the public.
May be assigned to work in plain clothes conducting investigations.
Assists and gives directions to motorists; removes debris from the roadways; provides direction during sports events as necessary; occasionally directs traffic at school crossings.
Inspects assigned department vehicles used for road safety by checking tire pressure and depth, oil, fuel, and reporting any unusual occurrences to the maintenance personnel and their supervisor.
May be required to perform the following physically demanding tasks in order to effectively perform job duties:
- Walk for extended periods while on foot patrol
- Sprint for short distances
- Run in long pursuits lasting over 2 minutes
- Run up and down stairs
- Push heavy objects
- Jump over and around obstacles
- Lift and carry heavy objects sometimes up and down stairs
- Use hands and feet in use of force situations
- Use physical force in short and long term (greater than 2 minutes) to effect an arrest or defend self or third party.
- Bend and reach
- Drag people and/or objects
Performs other related duties as required.
When assigned to the Operations Bureau:
Patrols assigned districts/precinct areas, to include the City parks and Chicopee Woods, to assure all laws are enforced by checking homes, businesses, and cars for any signs of criminal activity such as broken windows and unlocked doors.
Answers any calls from the public requesting assistance in burglaries, domestic violence, or any other situation meriting a response by law enforcement authorities.
Receives and documents all complaints about illegal activities in City parks; initiates preliminary investigations of such complaints and issues progress reports to superior officers.
Conducts field sobriety evaluations; if certified, performs Intoxilyzer tests on suspected intoxicated drivers; testifies in court as to the validity of results.
May be assigned to train new officers on the techniques and policies of the department.
Respond to motor vehicle accidents in designated area or assists in other areas as needed; assists EMT's, firefighters, and other emergency personnel; completes accident reports by asking questions of involved parties and any other witnesses, gathering all pertinent information and calling wreckers as necessary; provides assistance to victims at the scene; directs traffic as necessary; reopens the road when clear.
Conducts rounds of the downtown businesses, shopping centers, and parking lots on foot; walks in stores and makes as much contact with the public as possible to maintain good public relations; gives directions to public and motorists as the need arises.
Investigates unusual crowds and behavior, and searches for perpetrators of these activities.
Enforces parking ordinances on the City Square in Gainesville and performs other duties to improve traffic flow and parking availability in the City and to act as liaison between Police and local business people and the public.
Maintains traffic safety by stopping unsafe motorists, impaired drivers, and speeding vehicles; if certified uses speed detection devices; issues citations or arrests drivers and impounds vehicles; reports malfunctioning signals or damaged and missing traffic control signs to the central communications center when appropriate.
Performs other related duties as required to include those outlined in Support Services Bureau.
When assigned to the Support Services Bureau:
Provides law enforcement services to the public at the Gainesville Justice Center.
Serves subpoenas, and bench and probation warrants issued by the City of Gainesville Municipal Court.
Provides courtroom security during Municipal Court sessions.
When assigned, shall have the responsibility for maintaining a daily report of all persons incarcerated at the Hall County Detention Center who have been arrested by officers of the Gainesville Police Department. The report shall be ongoing and shall be disseminated daily to the Municipal Court Coordinator.
Picks up and delivers the daily bank deposits for the Gainesville Police Department and City of Gainesville Municipal Court.
Transports person(s) to and/or from various locations for reasons including, but not limited to court, investigative purposes and warrant services.
Performs other related duties as required to include those outlined in Operations Bureau.
Minimum Qualifications
Education and Experience:
High School Diploma or G.E.D.
No experience required. (Entry level police officer positions)
Licenses and Certifications:
Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Basic Law Enforcement Certification required.
Valid Georgia Class C Driver's License and a satisfactory Motor Vehicle Record (MVR).
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Knowledge of all pertinent federal, state, and city laws pertaining to law enforcement to include game and fishing laws.
Knowledge of investigation procedures and techniques.
Knowledge of Department rules and regulations.
Knowledge of first aid and CPR.
Ability to analyze situations quickly and objectively to determine the proper course of action.
Ability to cope with situations tactfully, firmly, courteously, and with respect for the rights of others.
Ability to react quickly and calmly in emergency situations.
Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
Ability to interpret established rules, regulations, and policies and procedures.
Skill in the use of firearms.
Supplemental Information
This class specification should not be interpreted as all inclusive. It is intended to identify the major responsibilities and requirements of this job. The incumbents may be required to perform job-related responsibilities and tasks other than those stated in this specification.
The City of Gainesville is an equal opportunity employer. The City of Gainesville prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. The City of Gainesville conforms to the spirit as well as to the letter of all applicable laws and regulations.
Overview
Part of the City of Gainesville's success is due to the efforts and loyalty of City employees. Gainesville offers a comprehensive benefits package to its employees and retirees. In assessing our comprehensive programs, the City has taken great care to seek a fair balance between business needs and employment security. There are many options available which afford City staff with coverage to best suit individual and family needs. In many cases, deductions are available on a pre-tax basis.
City Benefits Paid at 100%
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Employee Clinic & Wellness Center
  • GMEBS Retirement Plan (select positions)
  • Life Insurance (up to $75,000)
  • Paid Holidays (10)
  • Paid Jury Duty Leave
  • Paid Military Leave
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Protective Safety Equipment
  • Short-Term Disability Insurance (After 12 months of employment)
  • Tuition Reimbursement (After one year of employment)
  • Uniforms (select positions)
  • Workers' Compensation
Supplemental Benefits
  • Accident
  • Critical Illness
  • Death and Dismemberment
  • Deferred Compensation<