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Internal Affairs Investigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CRIMINAL INVESTIGATOR 4

Baton Rouge, LA ยท On-site

$5.0K - $10K/mo

Leads Internal Affairs operations - manages the Internal Affairs Division, sets investigative priorities, assigns cases, and ensures timely, thorough, policy-compliant investigations. Conducts high ...

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Internal Affairs Investigator information

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$35K

$56.1K

$101K

How much do internal affairs investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 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 (Non-Certified)

City of Gainesville, GA

Gainesville, GA โ€ข On-site

$23.15/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Salary: $23.15 Hourly
Location : 701 Queen City Parkway SW, Gainesville, GA
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: 01006
Department: Police Department
Opening Date: 01/13/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
Summary
Under direct supervision of the Training Director or his/her designee, incumbents perform a variety of non-sworn law enforcement duties, which may include, but not limited to, familiarization with policies of the Gainesville Police Department, familiarization with the primary duty weapon of the department, and attend a formalized Peace Officer Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.) certified police academy in preparation for employment as a Police Officer and perform related work as required. Upon successful completion of the police academy, trainees will be placed into a Field Training Program and will be given a 5% increase in pay. Upon successful completion of the department's Field Training Program, the trainee status will be changed to that of a Police Officer with a change in pay grade. Candidates who do not successfully complete the required Police Academy training will be terminated.
PLEASE READ THIS SECTION CAREFULLY AS IT CONTAINS VERY IMPORTANT INFORMATION.
WE ARE CURRENTLY ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR NON-CERTIFIED IN ANTICIPATION FOR A SPRING ACADEMY.
FAILURE TO FULLY COMPLETE AND UPLOAD REQUIRED DOCUMENTS MAY RESULT IN DISQUALIFICATION.
PLEASE CONTACT INTERNAL AFFAIRS AT 770-534-5252 IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS.
STARTING SALARY (NON-CERTIFIED): $50,559.60 (BASE) + 10 PAID HOLIDAYS ($2020.00) = $52,579.60
Note: Minimum hourly rate for non-certified is $24.30hour, based on 2080 annual hours. Once applicant graduates from the academy and becomes certified, applicant will then move up to the minimum hourly rate of $27.93/hour, based on 2184 annual hours.
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. 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

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 will result in immediate disqualification.
Job Duties
Duties/essential functions may include, but not be limited to, the following:
Attends P.O.S.T. Certified basic academy, participating in and passing all required classes. During training develops awareness and understanding of the functions and responsibilities of a Police Officer.
Academy training may include:
Instruction on proper handling and firing of firearms; review applicable Penal Code sections; overview of the court system; writing and editing police reports; observing law enforcement activities such as maintenance of order, crime prevention, and protection of citizens and property; review of rules, regulations, and procedures. Developing and maintaining a level of physical fitness; learning and demonstrating competence in arrest and control techniques and other Georgia P.O.S.T. required subjects.
Minimum Qualifications
Education and Experience:
High School Diploma or G.E.D.
No experience required.
Licenses and Certifications:
Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Basic Law Enforcement Certification required within six (6) months of employment.
Valid Georgia Class C Driver's License and a satisfactory Motor Vehicle Record (MVR).
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
  • Dental
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Long-Term Disability
  • Medical
  • Plan A Retirement (50% City paid - select positions)
  • Vision
  • Voluntary Life Insurance
Other Benefits
  • Biweekly Paycheck
  • Credit Union
  • Direct Deposit
  • Discount PC Purchase Plan
  • Employee Recognition Events
  • Employee Wellness Opportunities
  • Free Flu Shot
  • Free Parking
  • Health and Benefits Fair

01
Are you 21 years of age or older?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Are you a U.S. Citizen as required by Georgia POST?
  • Yes
  • No

03
Are you POST Basic Peace Officer Certified?
  • Yes
  • No

04
Do you have any convictions for offenses involving the Family Violence Act as defined in O.C.G.A. ยง 19-13-1?
  • Yes
  • No

05
Do you have a Temporary Protective Order (TPO) against you?
  • Yes
  • No

06
Do you have a conviction for a serious motor vehicle violation in the past three years from conviction date? (Serious violations may include, but are not limited to, racing, reckless driving, or DUI.)
  • Yes
  • No

07
Do you have more than two convictions for speeding or other moving violations in the past three years?
  • Yes
  • No

08
Has your driver's license been suspended or revoked in the past three years from conviction date?
  • Yes
  • No

09
Do you have any restrictions on your driver's license that would prevent you from legally or safely operating a vehicle?
  • Yes
  • No

10
Were you discharged from the military for reasons other than honorable or medical? If so, a detailed explanation must be provided for assessment. You may upload the explanation along with your other uploaded documents.
  • Yes
  • No

11
Have you used illegal drugs or controlled substances within the last three years? This includes illegal use of prescription drugs and steroids.
  • Yes
  • No

12
Do you have your required documents ready to upload? You MUST upload the following documents in order for your application to move forward. 1. Driver's License 2. Background Check Release Form (see link on posting)
  • Yes
  • No

13
. Do you understand that you MUST upload required documents? Have you read the posting and understand the requirements? Did you follow the instructions? The ability to follow instructions is critical to being a Police Officer.
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question