ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Lead Investigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Kelly Services

Lead Investigator

West Chester, OH

$32 - $36/hr

Join Our Team as a Lead Investigator! Are you experienced in Deviation Remediation with a passion for improving Pharma Manufacturing processes? Kelly Scientific is excited to offer a Lead ...

Integrated Resources INC

Lead Investigator

Andover, MA · On-site

$99K - $117K/yr

Our client is looking for Lead Investigator - with the good manufacturing, cGMP, chromatography, bioreactor, cell culture, documentation etc., experience!!! RESPONSIBILITIES: coordinating and leading ...

Kelly Services

Lead Investigator

Hamilton, OH

$32 - $36/hr

Join Our Team as a Lead Investigator! Are you experienced in Deviation Remediation with a passion for improving Pharma Manufacturing processes? Kelly Scientific is excited to offer a Lead ...

ABB

Lead Investigator EMEA

Dallas, NC · Hybrid

$85K - $101K/yr

In your role as Lead Investigator EMEA for ABB's Motion Business Area, you are accountable and responsible for overseeing all Severity Level 3 integrity and all Severity Level 1-3 HR investigations ...

Kentech Consulting, Inc.

LEAD INVESTIGATOR: W2

$45K/yr

As a remote investigator, you will analyze applications, conduct interviews, research public records, and produce clear, defensible investigative reports while maintaining the highest standards of ...

Kentech Consulting Inc

LEAD INVESTIGATOR: W2

Miami, FL · Remote

$45K/yr

KENTECH Consulting Inc. is an award-winning background technology and investigations company. We are the creators of innovative platforms such as eKnowID.com, the first consumer background checking ...

3146

Lead Investigator, EEO Compliance

Dallas, TX

$97K - $114K/yr

This position is charged with being a lead investigator, federal contractor compliance program manager, as well as a facilitator for the office's outreach and compliance training efforts. This ...

Americare

Lead Compliance Investigator

Brooklyn, NY · On-site

$103K - $122K/yr

The Lead Grievance Investigator is an essential component of the CHHA team. The Lead Grievance Investigator plans, develops, implements, and oversees the Agency's grievance investigation and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsLead Investigator Jobs

Lead Investigator information

See salary details

$47K

$98.8K

$118.5K

How much do lead investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for lead investigator in the United States is $98,777.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,000.00 and $116,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lead Investigator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lead Investigator, you need expertise in investigative techniques, evidence collection, and case management, often supported by a relevant degree and professional experience in law enforcement or compliance. Familiarity with digital forensics tools, case management systems, and certifications such as CFE (Certified Fraud Examiner) are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and leadership skills help in managing teams and communicating findings effectively. These capabilities are crucial for ensuring thorough investigations, maintaining legal standards, and achieving successful case resolutions.

What jobs make $1,000,000 a year?

Lead Investigators in specialized fields such as corporate fraud, cybersecurity, or private investigation can earn close to or over $1 million annually, especially with extensive experience, high-profile cases, or working as consultants. Typically, such high earnings require advanced skills, certifications, and often involve managing large teams or complex investigations.

What is the highest paid investigator?

The highest paid investigators are often senior-level professionals such as private investigators, corporate investigators, or government agency investigators with extensive experience, specialized skills, and security clearances. Salaries can reach over $100,000 annually, especially for those in managerial or specialized roles, or working in high-demand industries like cybersecurity or corporate security.

What is a lead investigator?

A lead investigator is a professional responsible for managing and directing investigations, often in law enforcement, corporate, or insurance settings. They coordinate team efforts, analyze evidence, and ensure investigative procedures are followed, typically requiring strong analytical skills and relevant certifications. The role may involve working long hours and maintaining confidentiality.

How does a Lead Investigator typically collaborate with other departments during an investigation?

Lead Investigators often work closely with various departments, such as legal, HR, compliance, and IT, depending on the nature of the investigation. They coordinate information gathering, delegate tasks, and ensure all findings are communicated promptly and accurately. Effective collaboration helps maintain objectivity, ensures all relevant expertise is utilized, and supports a thorough investigative process. Building strong cross-departmental relationships is key to efficiently resolving complex cases and maintaining organizational integrity.

What is the difference between Lead Investigator vs Investigator?

AspectLead InvestigatorInvestigator
Required CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree, relevant certifications, and experience in investigationsUsually requires a high school diploma or equivalent, with some roles needing basic certifications
Work EnvironmentLeads investigation teams, manages case strategies, and oversees investigationsConducts investigations, gathers evidence, and reports findings
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in law enforcement, corporate security, and private investigation firmsCommon in law enforcement agencies, private firms, and regulatory bodies

In summary, a Lead Investigator typically has more experience, leadership responsibilities, and advanced credentials compared to an Investigator. While both roles focus on conducting investigations, the Lead Investigator oversees teams and manages case strategies, whereas Investigators primarily gather evidence and report findings.

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

Lead Investigators in specialized fields such as corporate security, private investigation, or forensic consulting can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, certifications, and leadership roles. High-level executive positions in law enforcement agencies or private firms may also reach this compensation level, often requiring advanced skills, clearance, and a strong track record.

What are Lead Investigators?

Lead Investigators are professionals responsible for overseeing and managing investigations, often within organizations, law enforcement, or research settings. They coordinate investigative teams, gather and analyze evidence, and ensure that all procedures comply with legal and ethical standards. Lead Investigators also prepare detailed reports, present findings, and may testify in court or other formal settings. Their leadership is crucial for solving complex cases and ensuring thorough, unbiased investigations.
More about Lead Investigator jobs
What cities are hiring for Lead Investigator jobs? Cities with the most Lead Investigator job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Lead Investigator jobs? The top employers for Lead Investigator jobs are:
What states have the most Lead Investigator jobs? States with the most job openings for Lead Investigator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Lead Investigator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Lead Investigator jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Lead Investigator jobs? For Lead Investigator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Lead Investigator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Investigator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,777 per year, or $47.5 per hour.
Lead Investigator

Lead Investigator

Kelly Services

West Chester, OH

$32 - $36/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 4 hours ago

Job description

Join Our Team as a Lead Investigator!
Are you experienced in Deviation Remediation with a passion for improving Pharma Manufacturing processes? Kelly Scientific is excited to offer a Lead Investigator position for individuals like you to work on non-critical deviations in a dynamic and supportive environment. This is a 6-12 month contract role that includes the opportunity to contribute to impactful projects in the pharmaceutical industry.
Title: Lead Investigator
Location: Cincinnati, OH 
Contract Duration: 6 months minimum (1year anticipated)
Compensation: $32-$36/hour
What You'll Do:
  • Take charge of detailed investigations with a clear scope, strategy, and timeline while keeping stakeholders updated on progress and status.
  • Write impactful reports that document your findings on product impact, root cause analysis, corrective actions, and preventive measures to ensure issues don’t recur.
  • Collaborate with internal and external experts to enhance the speed and quality of investigations.
  • Work closely with cross-functional teams to:
    • Develop a clear communication strategy to ensure stakeholders are well-informed.
    • Design actionable investigation plans, including defining problems and solutions.
    • Identify root causes and implement effective CAPA action plans with follow-up checks.
    • Manage priorities to ensure investigations are completed in a timely manner, escalating issues as needed.
  • Tackle new challenges and contribute to process improvements across the organization.

What We Need From You:
  • Required:
    • Strong technical analysis skills with the ability to assess and quickly assimilate complex data to conduct thorough investigations.
    • Excellent communication skills to present findings and recommendations in a concise and effective manner.
    • Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced, rapidly changing environment.
    • Proactive approach with a strong sense of accountability and ownership throughout the investigation process.
    • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and a willingness to learn QMS systems such as Veeva.
  • Preferred:
    • Background in Pharmaceutical Manufacturing or other regulated industries.
    • Familiarity with problem-solving tools and techniques.
    • Understanding of core business processes, including cGMP and regulatory requirements.
    • A Bachelor's degree in Science, Engineering, or a related technical field.
    • Experience in Quality Deviation Management.

As part of our promise to talent, Kelly supports those who work with us through a variety of benefits, perks, and work-related resources. Kelly offers eligible employees voluntary benefit plans including medical, dental, vision, telemedicine, term life, whole life, accident insurance, critical illness, a legal plan, and short-term disability. As a Kelly employee, you will have access to a retirement savings plan, service bonus and holiday pay plans (earn up to eight paid holidays per benefit year), and a transit spending account. In addition, employees are entitled to earn paid sick leave under the applicable state or local plan. Click here for more information on benefits and perks that may be available to you as a member of the Kelly Talent Community.

Why Kelly® Science & Clinical?

Kelly Science & Clinical is your connection to premier scientific and clinical companies looking to hire industry experts just like you. Our team creates expert talent solutions to solve the world’s most critical challenges. Every day, we match science professionals with dream jobs that fit their skills, interests, and career goals-it’s the way we think job searching should be. Nearly 100 percent of our science recruiters have a professional background and education in science, so we know a thing or two about the science market and how to get your expertise noticed.

About Kelly

Work changes everything. And at Kelly, we’re obsessed with where it can take you. To us, it’s about more than simply accepting your next job opportunity. It’s the fuel that powers every next step of your life. It’s the ripple effect that changes and improves everything for your family, your community, and the world. Which is why, here at Kelly, we are dedicated to providing you with limitless opportunities to enrich your life-just ask the 300,000 people we employ each year.
Kelly is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified employees and applicants regardless of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information, or any other legally protected status, and we take affirmative action to recruit, employ, and advance qualified individuals with disabilities and protected veterans in the workforce. Requests for accommodation related to our application process can be directed to the Kelly Human Resource Knowledge Center. Kelly complies with the requirements of California’s state and local Fair Chance laws. A conviction does not automatically bar individuals from employment. Kelly participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.
Kelly may use AI-powered tools during the recruitment and hiring process. For full details, including how Kelly uses AI, your rights, and how to request a reasonable accommodation, visit the Recruitment Artificial Intelligence Notice.

Apply