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Investigation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Amerit Consulting

Investigations Specialist

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$40/hr

... investigation, or utility industries. The ideal candidate will possess excellent organizational and data entry skills, with the ability to manage multiple responsibilities efficiently in a fast-paced ...

New

1 point system

Investigations Specialist

Redmond, WA · On-site

Makes decisions on account actions * Works with various internal tools for investigation * This resource will work with other teams in the organization such as Customer Care, Risk Operations ...

Careoregon

OR

Special Investigations Unit Investigator ----- This position is responsible for administering the fraud, waste, and abuse (FWA) duties for CareOregon and its affiliated lines of business. Core work ...

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Investigation information

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$27.5K

$52.4K

$85K

How much do investigation jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for investigation in the United States is $52,394.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,500.00 and $57,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are investigation jobs?

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.

What is the highest paid investigator?

The highest paid investigators are often private investigators or specialized forensic investigators, with top earners making over $100,000 annually. Factors influencing salary include experience, certifications, industry, and geographic location, with some working in corporate security or high-profile cases earning more. Advanced skills and licenses can also lead to higher compensation.

What job is it when you investigate crimes?

A job that involves investigating crimes is typically held by law enforcement officers such as detectives or criminal investigators. These professionals gather evidence, interview witnesses, and analyze information to solve criminal cases, often requiring knowledge of forensic tools and legal procedures.

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 some good investigation career choices?

Investigation careers include roles such as private investigator, criminal investigator, forensic investigator, and corporate investigator. These positions often require strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and relevant certifications or training, such as a background in law enforcement or criminal justice. Opportunities exist in law enforcement agencies, private firms, government agencies, and corporate security departments.

What types of jobs are investigative?

Investigative jobs involve researching, analyzing, and uncovering information across various fields. Common roles include detectives, private investigators, forensic analysts, and intelligence officers, often requiring strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and relevant certifications or training. These positions are typically found in law enforcement, security, journalism, and corporate investigation environments.

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.
More about Investigation jobs
What cities are hiring for Investigation jobs? Cities with the most Investigation job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Investigation jobs? The most popular types of Investigation jobs are:
What states have the most Investigation jobs? States with the most job openings for Investigation jobs include:
Investigation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Investigation job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,394 per year, or $25.2 per hour.
Surveillance Investigator

Surveillance Investigator

APEX Investigation

Fairfield, CA • On-site

$60K - $74K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Actively interviewing now - immediate openings available. Apply today and hear back within 48 hours.
Signing bonus - paid after successful completion of the 90-day introductory period. Full details shared during the offer stage.
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 reducing insurance risks and combating fraudulent claims. Our commitment to delivering fast, high-quality, and reliable investigations has made us the partner of choice for our clients. APEX Investigation's mission is to build lasting relationships through trust, integrity and quality investigations. The APEX team lives out that mission by providing constant communication, results you can use, delivered fast at a fair price.
The Role
We are seeking a Surveillance Investigator to join our dynamic team. In this role, you'll conduct stationary and mobile surveillance, gather critical intelligence, and produce detailed reports that help clients make informed decisions. Every day offers new challenges and opportunities to showcase your investigative expertise and problem-solving skills.
Compensation and Earnings
  • Hourly Rate: $22 - $28
  • Target Annual Earnings: $60,000 - $74,000
  • Monthly Performance Bonuses: Up to $300/month ($3,600/year)
  • Mileage Reimbursement: $0.705/mile (IRS rate)
  • Paid Travel Time

Earnings vary based on individual performance and market conditions.
Key Responsibilities
  • Perform discreet stationary and mobile surveillance using your own nondescript vehicle
  • Capture high-quality video footage in line with court evidence standards
  • Submit accurate, detailed, and timely case reports using our online case management system
  • Analyze case details to define objectives and verify crucial information such as addresses, phone numbers, and vehicle descriptions
  • Maintain constant communication with management for real-time updates on investigations

Day in The Life of a PI
Here's what a typical day actually looks like - no two are the same, but this gives you a feel for the work.
  • Conducting discreet surveillance by monitoring, following, and capturing video footage of subjects as they go about their daily activities
  • Engaging in both vehicle and foot surveillance while maintaining cover and situational awareness
  • Observing and documenting a variety of activities, from routine errands like grocery shopping to dynamic environments such as the gym, sporting events, or the movies
  • Developing effective pre-surveillance strategies tailored to the location and specific case details
  • Preparing detailed, accurate reports on all observed activities and submitting high-quality video evidence to support findings
  • Maintaining consistent communication with your team leader to update on activity and adjust strategies as needed
  • Check out this video to learn more: Day in The Life of a PI

What You'll Need to Apply
Required
  • Ownership or access to a discreet, reliable vehicle (see vehicle guidelines below)
  • Flexible availability, including weekends, holidays, and overnight travel as needed
  • Ability to work an average of 40-50 hours per week, starting as early as 5:00-7:00 AM
  • A valid driver's license with a clean driving record
  • Strong and confident driving skills
  • A valid credit card for reimbursable travel and gas expenses
  • Must successfully pass a pre-employment background check
  • Proficiency in using a Windows laptop with the latest operating system

Preferred
  • Degree in Criminal Justice or a related field and/or experience in Loss Prevention
  • Bonus: Bilingual (Spanish) or military veteran experience

Surveillance Vehicle Guidelines
  • To ensure your vehicle blends into its surroundings, it must meet the following criteria:
  • Nondescript, neutral colors (e.g., earth tones); prohibited colors include red, yellow, orange, and maroon
  • No convertibles, pickup trucks, electric vehicles, or vehicles with loud exhaust, aftermarket wheels, or personalized license plates
  • Approved window tinting must comply with state law
  • Vehicle must be in safe, reliable condition and regularly maintained by the investigator.

Why APEX
  • Work independently - no office, no micromanaging. You run your own day in the field.
  • Get paid to travel - mileage and travel time are both compensated. California is your office.
  • Earn your PI license - every hour in the field counts toward your California Private Investigator License.
  • Real mentorship - you'll have an experienced manager in your corner, not just a supervisor checking boxes.
  • A team that has your back - field investigators who know the work and support each other.
  • Competitive pay that grows - performance bonuses reward results, not just showing up.

Benefits
  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • PTO
  • FSA
  • Simple IRA Plan

Equal Opportunity Employer
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their race, creed, color, disability, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, religion, Vietnam era Veteran's status, political affiliation, or any other non-merit factor.
After making a conditional offer of employment, the company will conduct a job-related background check. A comprehensive background check may consist of prior employment verification, motor vehicle records, professional reference checks, education confirmation and/ or criminal record and credit checks. Third-party services will be hired to perform these checks. Employer will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of the ordinance.
After an offer is made and accepted, the employer will comply with the Immigration and Nationality Act I-9 requirements to establish your identity and employment eligibility.

Apply