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Investigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

VRC Investigations

Surveillance Investigator

Columbia, SC

$20 - $24.50/hr

The surveillance investigator position is a field based, hourly, and non-exempt position. This position requires daily travel within the designated city/territory in the advertised city and state.

VRC Investigations

Surveillance Investigator

Orlando, FL

$18.75 - $23.25/hr

The surveillance investigator position is a field based, hourly, and non-exempt position. This position requires daily travel within the designated city/territory in the advertised city and state.

VRC Investigations

Surveillance Investigator

Allentown, PA

$21.25 - $26.25/hr

The surveillance investigator position is a field based, hourly, and non-exempt position. This position requires daily travel within the designated city/territory in the advertised city and state.

VRC Investigations

Surveillance Investigator

Boston, MA

$23.25 - $28.75/hr

The surveillance investigator position is a field based, hourly, and non-exempt position. This position requires daily travel within the designated city/territory in the advertised city and state.

VRC Investigations

Surveillance Investigator

Chicago, IL

$22.25 - $27.25/hr

The surveillance investigator position is a field based, hourly, and non-exempt position. This position requires daily travel within the designated city/territory in the advertised city and state.

LJK INVESTIGATIONS LLC

Private Investigator

Austin, TX · On-site

$23 - $27/hr

LJK Investigations, a leading investigation firm in Austin, TX is seeking an experienced Criminal Defense Private Investigator to join their team. The Criminal Defense Private Investigator will be ...

LJK INVESTIGATIONS LLC

Private Investigator

Salem, OR

$24 - $27/hr

LJK Investigations, a leading investigation firm based in Salem, OR is seeking an experienced Criminal Defense Private Investigator to join their northern Oregon team out of Beaverton. The Criminal ...

LJK INVESTIGATIONS LLC

Private Investigator

Austin, TX · On-site

$23 - $27/hr

LJK Investigations, a leading investigation firm in Austin, TX is seeking an experienced Criminal Defense Private Investigator to join their team. The Criminal Defense Private Investigator will be ...

APEX Investigation

Surveillance Investigator

Alameda, CA

$60K - $64K/yr

APEX Investigation APEX Investigation is a leader in Insurance, Workers' Compensation, Liability and Human Resource Investigations. Our experience investigating thousands of cases, and our ability to ...

LJK INVESTIGATIONS LLC

Private Investigator

Addison, TX · On-site +1

$23 - $27/hr

LJK Investigations, a leading investigation firm is seeking an experienced Private Investigator to join our team as a Remote Investigator for our Dallas-Ft. Worth, TX area. Responsibilities:

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Investigator information

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$32K

$75.3K

$131K

How much do investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for investigator 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 does an Investigator do?

An Investigator is responsible for gathering facts, collecting evidence, and conducting interviews to solve cases or uncover information. They may work in law enforcement, private investigation, corporate security, or other specialized fields. Their duties often include surveillance, report writing, and presenting findings to clients or authorities. Investigators must be detail-oriented, analytical, and maintain confidentiality throughout their work.

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 abilities, attention to detail, and a relevant degree or law enforcement background. Familiarity with investigative tools, case management software, and sometimes certifications like Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) are typically required. Outstanding communication, critical thinking, and discretion are essential soft skills for gathering information and managing sensitive situations. These skills and qualifications are vital to effectively uncover facts, maintain integrity, and ensure successful case resolution.

How Can I Become a Criminal Investigator?

A criminal investigator is an officer of the law who investigates crimes, interviews witnesses, and helps build cases that lead to an indictment. To start a career as a criminal investigator, you need to have several qualifications, which depend largely on the organization for which you plan to work. At the federal level, organizations like the FBI require you to gain acceptance into and complete an intense, five-month training program. For this level, you need significant law enforcement experience, and most applicants hold a degree in criminal justice or a related field. If you want to become a state or local police officer, you still need to attend a police academy, but the qualifications for admission are lower. You need a high school diploma or a GED certificate. However, it can take some time to work up to the level of a criminal investigator or detective.

What is the difference between Investigator vs Forensic Scientist?

AspectInvestigatorForensic Scientist
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; law enforcement training or certifications often preferredBachelor's degree in forensic science, chemistry, biology, or related field; certifications may enhance prospects
Work EnvironmentLaw enforcement agencies, crime scenes, investigationsLaboratories, crime labs, research facilities
Employer & Industry UsagePolice departments, federal agencies, private investigation firmsCrime labs, forensic laboratories, research institutions
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding investigative roles in law enforcementUnderstanding scientific analysis in forensic work

Investigators focus on gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and solving cases in the field, often working directly at crime scenes. Forensic scientists analyze physical evidence in labs to support investigations. Both roles are essential in criminal justice but differ in their work environment, credentials, and daily tasks.

How do investigators typically work with other departments or external agencies during an investigation?

Investigators often collaborate extensively with other internal departments such as legal, compliance, and human resources, as well as with external agencies like law enforcement or regulatory bodies. This teamwork ensures a thorough and coordinated approach to gathering evidence, conducting interviews, and maintaining proper documentation. Clear communication and strict adherence to protocols are essential to preserve the integrity and confidentiality of the investigation. Building strong working relationships with colleagues and agency contacts can also help streamline the process and achieve effective outcomes.
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Investigator jobs near you

Surveillance Investigator

VRC Investigations

Grand Rapids, MI

$20 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

We currently have career opportunities for experienced, self-determined, and highly motivated SURVEILLANCE INVESTIGATORS that would like to join our team of professionals in our efforts to deter and combat insurance fraud. The surveillance investigator position is a field based, hourly, and non-exempt position. This position requires daily travel within the designated city/territory in the advertised city and state. Opportunities for advancement include Management, SIU Investigations, and other operational positions.
The primary responsibilities of this position include but are not limited to conducting stationary, mobile, and covert surveillance, and background checks. Investigators will be required to document all findings into a clear and concise report, obtain video evidence, testify as needed at hearings and trials, and work independently with minimal supervision.

The successful candidate will have related experience as either:
  • A private investigator
  • Law enforcement
  • Loss prevention
  • Process Server
  • Security
  • Honorably discharged from any military branch
Core Duties amp; Responsibilities:
  • Ability to conduct stationary, covert, and mobile surveillance
  • Complete detailed and accurate investigative reports
  • Conduct research to develop new information
  • Provide daily updates regarding current files
  • Formulate investigative strategies based on individual assignments
  • Communicate results with clients
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
  • Access to a suitable surveillance vehicle
  • Willing to travel 75% of the time
  • Must have a valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record in accordance with the firm’s guidelines
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Must have the ability to work efficiently with little or no supervision.
  • Must pass a drug test and pre-employment test
  • Must have excellent overall computer skills.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office programs
  • Excellent time management skills
  • Demonstrate ability to analyze information, develop logical questions and accurately report findings
  • Upon receiving a job offer you must attend 1 week of paid formal training at the VRC corporate office. Training will be followed up by on-the-job and specialized training as needed.

Benefits:
VRC provides their investigators with necessary equipment and comparable pay, to include drive time, above normal commute mileage reimbursement, company paid licensing fees in most states and allowance for non-reimbursed business expenses. VRC also offers medical, dental, vision, disability benefits, as well as paid vacation, and a 401K/Profit Sharing retirement plan.

Compensation: VRC employees are paid on a bi-weekly basis. Investigators are paid a competitive hourly wage to commensurate with experience.
For more information, please visit our web site located at https://vrcinvestigations.com/

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