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Investigator Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

As a Surveillance Investigator Trainee, you play a vital role in protecting the integrity of our operations. Under the supervision of senior investigators, you use surveillance equipment to monitor ...

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Investigator Trainee information

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$32K

$75.3K

$131K

How much do investigator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for investigator trainee in the United States is $75,325.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,500.00 and $98,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What can I expect in terms of mentorship and on-the-job training as an investigator trainee?

As an Investigator Trainee, you can typically expect to work closely with experienced investigators who provide hands-on mentorship and guidance throughout your training period. You'll likely participate in shadowing opportunities, attend workshops, and gradually take on more responsibility as your skills develop. The work environment often encourages asking questions and learning through real cases, helping you build a solid foundation in investigative procedures, documentation, and ethical standards. Structured feedback sessions and regular check-ins are common, ensuring you're progressing effectively and are well-prepared for advancement.

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

To thrive as an Investigator Trainee, you need keen analytical abilities, attention to detail, and a relevant degree in criminal justice, law, or a related field. Familiarity with investigative software, case management systems, and sometimes basic forensic tools is typically required. Strong communication, critical thinking, and integrity are essential soft skills that make candidates stand out. These skills and qualities ensure thorough, unbiased investigations and effective case resolution while building trust within the organization.

How to get experience as an investigator trainee?

To gain experience as an investigator trainee, individuals often complete relevant education such as criminal justice or law enforcement training, and may participate in internships or entry-level positions in investigative or security roles. Developing skills in report writing, interviewing, and using investigative tools like surveillance equipment can also enhance qualifications for advancement in the field.

What is an investigator trainee?

Investigator Trainees are entry-level professionals who assist in conducting investigations under the supervision of experienced investigators. Their responsibilities often include gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, preparing reports, and learning investigative techniques. They work in various fields such as law enforcement, insurance, or corporate compliance, and receive on-the-job training to develop their skills. This role is designed to prepare individuals for more advanced investigator positions.

What is the difference between Investigator Trainee vs Investigator?

AspectInvestigator TraineeInvestigator
Required CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree; some roles may need a relevant certification or courseworkRequires a bachelor's degree; often requires additional certifications or licensure depending on the field
Work EnvironmentTraining settings, supervised investigations, entry-level environmentsFull investigative roles, independent work, field and office settings
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in government agencies, research institutions, and private firms as an entry-level positionUsed across law enforcement, regulatory agencies, and private investigation firms as a fully qualified investigator

The main difference between Investigator Trainee and Investigator is the experience level and responsibilities. Investigator Trainees are in training, often supervised, and focus on learning the fundamentals. Investigators are fully qualified professionals conducting independent investigations. The transition from trainee to investigator involves gaining experience, certifications, and demonstrating investigative competence.

More about Investigator Trainee jobs
What cities are hiring for Investigator Trainee jobs? Cities with the most Investigator Trainee job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Investigator jobs? The most popular types of Investigator jobs are:
What states have the most Investigator Trainee jobs? States with the most job openings for Investigator Trainee jobs include:
Infographic showing various Investigator Trainee job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,325 per year, or $36.2 per hour.

Special Investigator Trainee

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

Harrisburg, PA โ€ข Hybrid

$46K - $70K/yr

Other

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

THE POSITION Do you want to help safeguard public resources and strengthen anti-fraud efforts. Apply to be a Special Investigator Trainee with the State Workers' Insurance Fund (SWIF), Financial Management Division. This role teaches you what it takes to assist in the prevention, identification, and investigation of insurance fraud and abuse in the workers' compensation system.

Join our team and make a meaningful impact that keeps programs fair and secure. DESCRIPTION OF WORK This position supports fraud prevention by providing technical assistance and participating in SWIF's anti-fraud plan. Work involves assisting seasoned investigators, analyzing facts, and collaborating with other agencies and investigative teams.

As a Special Investigator Trainee, you will learn and perform the following duties: Investigative Support: Help identify potential fraud within the workers' compensation system, make determinations based on precedent, facts and circumstances, and general office guidelines Evidence Gathering: Collect data, interview individuals, and additional information to support ongoing investigations Information Analysis: Review and interpret financial records, medical records, and other data to spot questionable or inconsistent information and identify trends Stakeholder Communication: Coordinate and correspond with coworkers, staff in other offices, and external partners to request, obtain, and share information Case Documentation: Maintain files, track activities, and prepare detailed reports and summaries related to investigative findings Interested in learning more. Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description. Work Schedule and Additional Information: Full-time employment Work hours are 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday - Friday, with a 30-minute lunch.

Telework: You may have the opportunity to work from home (telework) part-time. In order to telework, you must have a securely configured high-speed internet connection and work from an approved location inside Pennsylvania. If you are unable to telework, you will have the option to report to the headquarters office in Scranton.

The ability to telework is subject to change at any time. Additional details may be provided during the interview. Salary: In some cases, the starting salary may be non-negotiable.

You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices. REQUIRED EXPERIENCE, TRAINING & ELIGIBILITY QUALIFICATIONS Minimum Experience and Training Requirements: A bachelor's degree that includes 12 credits in criminal justice or a closely related field; or An equivalent combination of experience and training that includes 12 credits in criminal justice or a closely related field.

Additional Requirements: You must demonstrate the ability to adhere to the values and ethics of the Department of Labor and Industry. You must demonstrate the ability to work with professionalism, discretion, and good work ethic. You must have solid written and verbal communication skills.

You must show initiative and problem-solving skills. You must be able to perform essential job functions. How to Apply: Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed, and the information contained therein will not be considered for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position.

Information to support your eligibility for the position must be provided on the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education). If you are claiming education in your answers to the supplemental application questions, you must attach a copy of your college transcripts for your claim to be accepted toward meeting the minimum requirements. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable

Your application must be submitted by the posting closing date. Late applications and other required materials will not be accepted. Failure to comply with the above application requirements may eliminate you from consideration for this position.

All application materials and interview responses must reflect the applicant's own experience, qualifications, and work. Applicants may use generative AI tools for preparation purposes only. Use of AI to misrepresent or falsify information, or to assist during interviews, is not permitted.

Review the Guidance for Generative AI Tools & Job Seekers for additional information. Veterans: Pennsylvania law (51 Pa. C.S

7103) provides employment preference for qualified veterans for appointment to many state and local government jobs. To learn more about employment preferences for veterans, go to www.pa.gov/agencies/employment/how-to-apply.html and click on Veterans. Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS): 711 (hearing and speech disabilities or other individuals)

If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodations due to a disability, please discuss your request for accommodations with the interviewer in advance of your interview date. The Commonwealth is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse workforce. The Commonwealth values inclusion as we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most qualified people to serve the citizens of Pennsylvania.

The Commonwealth does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, union membership, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, AIDS or HIV status, disability, or any other categories protected by applicable federal or state law. All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply.


Commonwealth of Pennsylvania logo

About Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is not a traditional company but rather a state government entity headquartered in Middletown, Pennsylvania, United States. Through its official website pa.gov, the government provides a broad range of services to its residents, including but not limited to, health services, education, transportation, and regulatory functions. Founded in 1787, the Commonwealth holds a rich history dating back to the foundation of the United States itself. The government's core mission is to serve and improve the lives of Pennsylvanians, fostering a more prosperous, informed, and secure state.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Harrisburg, PA, US

Year founded

1787