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Investigation Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Surveillance Investigator

Antioch, CA · On-site

$60K - $74K/yr

About Us APEX Investigation ® is a trusted leader in Insurance, Workers' Compensation, Liability, and Human Resource Investigations. For over 40 years, APEX has stood firm in its dedication to ...

Surveillance Investigator

Antioch, CA · On-site

$60K - $74K/yr

About Us APEX Investigation ® is a trusted leader in Insurance, Workers' Compensation, Liability, and Human Resource Investigations. For over 40 years, APEX has stood firm in its dedication to ...

... investigations to catch fraudulent actors on Ads and enforce Ads product policies · Investigate and address escalations requiring reviews across Ads accounts, landing pages, and creatives Candidates ...

Investigative Specialist

Livermore, CA · On-site

$95K - $117K/yr

You will conduct investigations of alleged violations concerning the protection of classified or sensitive matter and will interact with all levels of LLNL personnel from a variety of disciplinary ...

You will conduct investigations of alleged violations concerning the protection of classified or sensitive matter and will interact with all levels of LLNL personnel from a variety of disciplinary ...

You will conduct investigations of alleged violations concerning the protection of classified or sensitive matter and will interact with all levels of LLNL personnel from a variety of disciplinary ...

As a Investigation Assistant, you will be responsible for assisting investigative teams and supporting case work, including: assist lead investigator in gathering information. conduct research and ...

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Investigation information

See California salary details

$27.1K

$51.7K

$83.9K

How much do investigation jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for investigation in California is $51,708.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,900.00 and $56,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do you get into investigation?

To pursue a career in investigation, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some roles requiring a college degree in criminal justice, law enforcement, or related fields. Gaining experience through internships, law enforcement training, or certifications such as private investigator licenses can be beneficial; strong analytical skills and attention to detail are essential. Many investigators start in related roles like law enforcement or security before advancing into investigative positions.

What is an investigation job?

Investigation jobs involve gathering and analyzing information to uncover facts or resolve issues, often related to legal, financial, or security matters. Professionals in these roles may work for law enforcement agencies, private companies, or government organizations. Their work typically includes interviewing witnesses, collecting evidence, conducting surveillance, and writing detailed reports. The goal is to solve cases, prevent fraud, enforce laws, or support organizational decision-making.

What are some common challenges investigators face when collaborating with other departments or agencies?

Investigators often work closely with various departments, such as legal, compliance, and law enforcement, as well as external agencies. Common challenges include coordinating communication across different teams, navigating varying protocols and priorities, and maintaining confidentiality while sharing necessary information. Successful investigators develop strong interpersonal skills and remain adaptable to ensure effective collaboration, which is crucial for resolving cases efficiently and accurately.

How do you become a crime investigator?

To become a crime investigator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by completing a police academy training program. Many investigators hold a bachelor's degree in criminal justice or a related field and gain experience as police officers before specializing in investigations; relevant skills include attention to detail, analytical thinking, and proficiency with investigative tools and techniques.

What is the difference between Investigation vs Forensic Analyst?

AspectInvestigationForensic Analyst
Required CredentialsVaries; often high school diploma or equivalent, sometimes specialized trainingTypically requires a degree in criminal justice, forensic science, or related fields; certifications may be preferred
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, law enforcement agencies, private investigation firmsLaboratory settings, crime labs, or forensic departments
Employer & Industry UsageLaw enforcement, private security, corporate securityLaw enforcement agencies, forensic laboratories, legal institutions
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in investigations, career optionsTechnical forensic work, crime scene analysis

Investigation involves gathering information, interviewing witnesses, and solving cases often in the field or through surveillance. Forensic analysts focus on analyzing physical evidence in labs to support investigations. While both roles are integral to solving crimes, investigators typically conduct fieldwork, whereas forensic analysts work primarily in laboratories with scientific methods.

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

To thrive as an Investigator, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a background in criminal justice or a related field, often supported by relevant certifications or law enforcement experience. Familiarity with case management systems, digital research tools, and forensic technologies is typically required. Effective communication, critical thinking, and discretion are crucial soft skills for interviewing, report writing, and handling sensitive information. These competencies ensure thorough, accurate investigations and the ability to resolve cases efficiently and ethically.
What are the most commonly searched types of Investigation jobs in California? The most popular types of Investigation jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Investigation jobs? Cities in California with the most Investigation job openings:
Infographic showing various Investigation job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,708 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Special Investigation Unit Investigator III

L.A. Care Health Plan

Los Angeles, CA

$115K - $142K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


L.A. Care Health Plan rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 303 rated insurance


Job description

Salary Range:  $88,854.00 (Min.) - $115,509.00 (Mid.) - $142,166.00 (Max.)

Established in 1997, L.A. Care Health Plan is an independent public agency created by the state of California to provide health coverage to low-income Los Angeles County residents. We are the nation's largest publicly operated health plan. Serving more than 2 million members, we make sure our members get the right care at the right place at the right time.
Mission: L.A. Care's mission is to provide access to quality health care for Los Angeles County's vulnerable and low-income communities and residents and to support the safety net required to achieve that purpose.
 

Job Summary

The Special Investigation Unit Investigator III performs in-depth evaluation of potential fraud & abuse cases and develops complex investigations that involve high dollar amounts, sensitive issues, or that otherwise meet criteria for fraud, waste & abuse. In addition, this position is responsible for building the investigative approach and provide leadership for Investigators through mentoring, on-site audit leadership and hands-on training of investigative techniques.

Responsible for in-depth investigations requiring subject matter expertise for suspected provider, pharmacy, employer or member fraud or abuse across all products at L.A. Care Health Plan. Ensures adherence to L.A. Care's policies and procedures for its various product offerings. Conducts investigation-related training. Acts as a Subject Matter Expert, serves as a resource and mentor for other staff.

Duties

Investigates allegations and complex issues pertaining to potential health care fraud by providers or members.  Makes potential fraud & abuse determinations by utilizing a variety of sources including data analytics to detect unusual billing. Proactively seeks out and develops leads received from fraud tips and any variety of sources (e.g., fraud alerts, media) and initiates appropriate action. Writes comprehensive investigatory/fact-finding reports and summaries documenting interviews and findings. Reviews information contained in standard claims processing system files (e.g. claims history, provider files) to determine provider billing patterns and detect potential fraudulent or abusive billing practices or vulnerabilities in Medi-Cal/Medicare policies and initiates appropriate action. This position is a leader at onsite audits as assigned in conjunction with investigation development. Completes investigations after referrals to law enforcement (Department of Health Care Services (DHCS), Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), Department of Justice (DOJ) or local police).  Participates at hearings/appeals and can testify as a witness in court proceedings. Initiates the process with L.A. Care's Recovery Services for recoupment of overpaid monies.

Submits referrals of suspected fraud cases within mandated period of time as required by DHCS and CMS. Prepares and submits investigative report documenting all phases of an investigation. Compiles and maintains various documentation and other reporting requirements while following all confidentiality and security guidelines. Maintains cases referred to law enforcement and responds to requests for information; pursues applicable administrative actions during investigation/case development.

Participates in industry meetings/trainings and is able to effectively share and gather significant information.  Develops and maintains strong working relationships with associates and regulators including DHCS, DOJ the FBI, Local Law Enforcement, Prosecutors, etc. Continually enhances investigative skills and understanding of emerging issues and trends impacting the industry.  

Applies subject expertise in evaluating business operations and processes. Identifies areas where technical solutions would improve business performance. Consults across business operations, providing mentorship, and contributing specialized knowledge. Ensures that the facts and details are correct so that the project's/program's deliverable meets the needs of the department, organization and legislation's policies, standards, and best practices. Provides training, recommends process improvements, and mentors junior level staff, department interns, etc. as needed.

Perform other duties as assigned.

Duties Continued
Education Required
Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice or Related Field
In lieu of degree, equivalent education and/or experience may be considered.
Education Preferred
Master's Degree in Criminal Justice or Related Field
Experience

Required:

Minimum of 5 years of experience in healthcare fraud investigation/detection and/or healthcare related specialty including but not limited to; Pharmacy, DME, Mental Health, Behavioral Health, Hospice, Home Health, Dental etc.

Experience conducting fact-finding interviews or investigations to gather information and draw conclusions from various accounts and versions of the same event.

Experience managing large amounts of data including pivot tables, complex calculations, and ability to perform comparisons across multiple large data sets

Preferred: 

Diverse experience as subject matter expert (SME) with multiple specialties including: Pharmacy, DME, Mental Health, Behavioral Health, Hospice, Home Health, Dental etc.

Skills


Required:
Excellent research skills and the ability to support conclusions with documentary evidence.

Excellent analytical, problem solving, and resolution skills and the ability to discern the practical application of regulatory and legal requirements.

Demonstrated strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple demands and priorities.

Excellent and effective communication skills, both verbal and written.

Proficient computer skills, including computer applications such as MS Word and Excel.  

Understanding of the vital importance of commitment to excellence and demonstrating a high regard for organizational values.

Ability to maintain in-depth working knowledge of fraud investigation techniques and mentor less experienced team members.

Preferred:

Proficiency with Access.

Licenses/Certifications Required
Licenses/Certifications Preferred
Accredited Health Care Fraud Investigator (AHFI)
Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE)
Certified Professional Coder (CPC) designation by the American Academy of Professional Coders
Required Training
Physical Requirements
Light
Additional Information

Salary Range Disclaimer: The expected pay range is based on many factors such as geography, experience, education, and the market.  The range is subject to change.

L.A. Care offers a wide range of benefits including

  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Retirement Plans
  • Medical, Dental and Vision
  • Wellness Program
  • Volunteer Time Off (VTO)

What L.A. Care Health Plan employees say

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