ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Investigative Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

STI

Investigative Research Specialist

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

Investigative Research Specialist Indianapolis, IN 1 year Contract Description: Civilian position who will review complaints, collect investigative info., eval., collate, analyze & disseminate to the ...

World Bank

Investigative Analyst

Washington, DC · On-site

Use open sources to conduct due diligence and investigative research. Participate in the ... development of digital tools (including through the use of AI) to enhance efficiency and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsInvestigative Research Jobs

Investigative Research information

See salary details

$35K

$56.1K

$101K

How much do investigative research jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for investigative research 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 is the difference between Investigative Research vs Forensic Analyst?

AspectInvestigative ResearchForensic Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in criminal justice, research, or related fieldBachelor's degree in forensic science, chemistry, or related field; certifications may be preferred
Work EnvironmentResearch settings, government agencies, private firmsCrime labs, law enforcement agencies, forensic laboratories
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across research institutions, government, private sector for investigative purposesPrimarily employed in law enforcement, criminal justice, and forensic science sectors

Investigative Research focuses on gathering information, analyzing data, and supporting investigations through research methods. Forensic Analysts specialize in analyzing physical evidence from crime scenes to support criminal investigations. While both roles require analytical skills and relevant education, Investigative Research is broader and more research-oriented, whereas Forensic Analysts focus on scientific evidence analysis within forensic labs.

What careers are good for investigative people?

Investigative research skills are valuable in careers such as detective, criminal investigator, intelligence analyst, forensic scientist, and market researcher. These roles typically require strong analytical abilities, attention to detail, and proficiency with research tools and data analysis. They often involve problem-solving, critical thinking, and working in environments that demand confidentiality and accuracy.

What does an investigative researcher do?

An investigative researcher gathers, analyzes, and verifies information to support investigations or research projects. They often use tools like public records, databases, and interviews, and require strong analytical skills and attention to detail. Their work helps uncover facts and provides evidence for legal, journalistic, or corporate purposes.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

In investigative research roles, high salaries of $500,000 or more are rare and typically found in senior positions such as chief investigators, private investigators working for large firms, or roles in corporate security and intelligence that require extensive experience, specialized skills, and often involve leadership responsibilities. These positions may also require advanced certifications, security clearances, and long hours. Most investigative research jobs pay significantly less, with top earners often supplementing income through consulting or executive roles.

What jobs pay $10,000 a month without a degree?

In investigative research and related fields, high-paying roles such as freelance investigators, private detectives, or specialized consultants can reach or exceed $10,000 per month, often requiring strong analytical skills, industry experience, and sometimes licensing. These positions typically involve independent work, contract-based projects, or niche expertise, with income varying based on workload and reputation.

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

To thrive as an Investigative Researcher, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a background in research methods or journalism, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with data analysis tools, online databases, and information verification platforms is typically required. Persistence, critical thinking, and strong written and verbal communication skills set outstanding investigators apart. These abilities are crucial for uncovering accurate information, drawing credible conclusions, and effectively communicating findings.

What is investigative research?

Investigative research involves systematically gathering, analyzing, and interpreting information to uncover facts, patterns, or insights that are typically hidden or not readily available. Professionals in this field use various methods such as interviews, data analysis, and reviewing documents to uncover the truth about a subject, often related to crime, corruption, or social issues. This research is commonly used in journalism, law enforcement, academia, and private investigations to support decision-making, expose wrongdoing, or inform the public.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in investigative research roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in investigative research often encounter challenges such as verifying the credibility of sources, working with incomplete or conflicting information, and managing tight deadlines. To address these issues, it's important to develop strong analytical skills, use reputable databases and cross-reference multiple sources, and maintain clear documentation of findings. Additionally, collaborating with colleagues and maintaining open communication with stakeholders can help ensure the accuracy and relevance of the research. Continuous learning and adaptability are also key to overcoming evolving challenges in the field.
More about Investigative Research jobs
What cities are hiring for Investigative Research jobs? Cities with the most Investigative Research job openings:
What states have the most Investigative Research jobs? States with the most job openings for Investigative Research jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Investigative Research jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Investigative Research jobs are:
Investigative Research jobs near you

Investigative Research Specialist

Techmorgonite Software Solutions LLC

Indianapolis, IN • On-site

Contractor

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Investigative Research Specialist
Duration: 12+ Months
Location: Indianapolis, IN (ONSITE)
 
 
 
Civilian position who will review complaints, collect investigative info., eval., collate, analyze & disseminate to the Office of Inspector General (OIG) investigative section & other OIG personnel in support of investigations and other projects.
 
GENERAL SUMMARY
The Investigative Research Specialist will review complaints, collect investigative information, evaluate, collate, analyze, and disseminate findings to the Office of Inspector General (OIG) investigative section and other OIG personnel in support of investigations and other approved projects. The Research Specialist will work primarily to support the OIG investigative section with highly complex investigations, assisting with the accomplishment of objectives within all phases of the investigation cycle: planning, executing, reporting and prosecution. This initial duration for this role will be 12-months, but may be extended or converted to a permanent role if adequate funding is obtained.
 
SUPERVISION
The Investigative Research Specialist will be supervised by the OIG Director of Investigations. 
(The Investigative Research Specialist does not have any supervisory responsibilities).  
 
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
 
 Receives complaints and assesses for initial documentation to be requested from other agencies, reviewing with the Director of Investigations and assigned Special Agent and Attorney.
 
 Receives inquiries, requests for information, and requests for assistance from OIG personnel; reviews, enters and updates submissions; researches the data systems and disseminates requests for information in accordance with established policies and procedures. Queries databases for information parameters, retrieves pertinent data in appropriate output format and disseminates for use in OIG criminal and ethics investigative activities.
 
 Conducts a wide range of analysis in database information and produces analytical products that assist in detecting and identifying suspects modus operandi, potential criminal or ethics violations; and provides statistical data for use in planning the most effective use of investigative resources.
 
 Prepares written and oral reports from information received from various investigative agencies or outside sources for distribution to OIG investigators and other personnel. Combines all related information that has a bearing on a particular criminal or ethical violation or suspect. Analyzes data extracted from these sources in detail to further the goals of the OIG.
 
 Ensures that necessary corrections and/or additions are provided if content or substance is deemed deficient. Monitors the acquisition, maintenance, and release of criminal intelligence information, also responsible for periodic training sessions on the criminal intelligence program and related topics. Reads local, technical, and other publications, and identifies and disseminates information of interest to OIG personnel.
 
 Maintains liaison with other law enforcement, state, and federal agencies to assist and exchange information of mutual interest within confines of policy to ensure rapport in areas of criminal investigation, crime prevention, and criminal intelligence efforts.
 
 Serves as the statistical data and validation technician for Investigations. Maintains and updates all data required for statistical analysis of crime and ethics investigative case activity.
 
 Ensures the source of documents and case files are established and maintained on each applicable database.  The information in the file’s updates and purges information periodically to ensure all OIG information is current and useful for law enforcement purposes. Advises the Director of Investigations on all issues relating to these matters. 
 
 Adheres to and complies with the OIG and SPD Policy and Procedure Manuals.
 
OTHER DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
 
 This position is considered essential to support the OIG Investigative Division to complete its priorities, projects, and missions.
 
 Subject to law enforcement sensitive material.
 
 Use skills in operating computer and related software applications with a primary focus on Microsoft Excel, Microsoft PowerPoint, and Social Media platforms, etc.
 
 Use technology and software to collect and preserve digital data and evidence from electronic equipment.
 
 Able to take large amounts of information and create visual documents for presentations or legal proceedings EX: Link Diagrams, Flow Charts, Map Diagrams, and overlays
 
 May participate in other department operations as deemed necessary.
 
 Perform other duties as assigned.
 
 
MINIMUM JOB REQUIREMENTSEDUCATION
 
 A bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, law, or a related field is preferred, but extensive three plus (3+) years on-the-job experience in law enforcement, intelligence, communication center, legal office, or investigations will be considered as a substitution for the educational requirement.
 
 If served in the military, has received an honorable discharge from any of the Armed Forces of the U.S.
 
 No felony or serious misdemeanor convictions. 
 
 Successfully pass a new hire background investigation.
 
 
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES 
KNOWLEDGE IN:
 Analytical skills, attention to detail, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities. 
 
 Software tools and databases and have excellent research and report writing skills. 
 
 The principles, concepts, methodologies and techniques of investigative analysis and skill to apply this knowledge to a variety of difficult and complex work assignments.
 
 The methods and techniques of fact-finding, analysis and skill application to identify problems and develop a plan of action to resolve causes and deficiencies.
 
 Sources of information and the methods and techniques used to extract, analyze, and target useful investigative data.
 
SKILL IN:
 
 Oral communications to establish and maintain work relationships with other law enforcement and government agencies.
 
 The use and operations of different Social Media platforms
 
 Computers and relevant software applications to include knowledge of Word, Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, Adobe, creating organized charts or graphs, and capacity to adapt to and learn new software programs quickly.
 
 Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, while encouraging others to express their ideas and opinions.
 
 Providing input into identifying and solving problems.
 
 
ABILITY TO:
 
 Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with those contacted in the course of work including other Federal, State and Local investigative agencies.
 
 Anticipate need for information on related job functions and provide it in a timely manner.
 
 Interpret and apply federal, state, and local policies, procedures, laws, and regulations related to th