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Operations Investigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Surveillance Investigator

Chicago, IL

$22.25 - $27.25/hr

Opportunities for advancement include Management, SIU Investigations, and other operational positions. The primary responsibilities of this position include but are not limited to conducting ...

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Operations Investigator information

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$32K

$75.3K

$131K

How much do operations investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for operations 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 jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

Operations Investigators typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are usually associated with executive roles, specialized medical professionals, or successful entrepreneurs. High-paying jobs often require advanced skills, extensive experience, and sometimes ownership or leadership positions. Compensation at this level is rare and usually involves bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing.

How does an Operations Investigator typically collaborate with other departments to resolve issues?

Operations Investigators frequently work cross-functionally with departments such as compliance, risk management, and operations teams to identify and resolve issues. Collaboration often involves gathering data, conducting interviews, and sharing findings to develop effective solutions. Open communication and regular meetings are important, as these interactions help ensure that investigations are thorough and that operational improvements are implemented smoothly. Building strong relationships with colleagues in other departments is key to efficiently addressing complex operational challenges.

What are Operations Investigators?

Operations Investigators are professionals who analyze, assess, and investigate the processes and procedures within an organization to ensure compliance, efficiency, and effectiveness. They often review operational activities, identify areas of risk or non-compliance, and recommend improvements or corrective actions. Their work helps organizations mitigate operational risks, adhere to regulations, and enhance overall business performance. Operations Investigators may work in various industries, including finance, logistics, healthcare, and government.

Can I join ATF without a degree?

Operations Investigator positions at the ATF typically require a bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in criminal justice, law enforcement, or related fields. While some law enforcement roles may accept relevant work experience in lieu of a degree, a formal education is generally preferred. Candidates should review specific job postings for exact requirements and consider certifications or specialized training to enhance their qualifications.

What is the highest paying investigator job?

The highest paying investigator roles are often senior positions such as private investigators, corporate security investigators, or specialized federal agents like FBI or DEA investigators, with salaries exceeding $100,000 annually. Factors influencing pay include experience, certifications, and the complexity of investigations handled.

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

To thrive as an Operations Investigator, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a background in compliance, risk management, or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with investigative tools, case management systems, and data analysis software is essential for conducting thorough investigations. Excellent communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities help you effectively gather information and present findings. These competencies are crucial for identifying operational risks, ensuring regulatory compliance, and supporting organizational integrity.

What is the difference between Operations Investigator vs Fraud Analyst?

AspectOperations InvestigatorFraud Analyst
Required CredentialsTypically a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, law enforcement, or related field; certifications like ACFE are commonUsually a bachelor's degree in finance, criminal justice, or related; certifications like CFE are often preferred
Work EnvironmentInvestigates operational issues, internal investigations, compliance, often in corporate or government settingsFocuses on detecting and preventing fraud, analyzing financial data, working in finance or insurance sectors
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by corporations, government agencies, and law enforcement for internal investigationsCommon in banking, insurance, and financial services for fraud detection

While both roles involve investigation skills and compliance knowledge, Operations Investigators focus on operational and internal issues, whereas Fraud Analysts specialize in identifying and preventing financial fraud. The roles often overlap in skills but differ in focus and industry application.

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

Operations investigators typically do not earn $1,000,000 annually; such high earnings are usually associated with executive roles, entrepreneurs, or highly specialized professionals in finance, technology, or investment sectors. Achieving this level of income often requires advanced skills, extensive experience, and sometimes ownership or leadership positions in successful companies.
What cities are hiring for Operations Investigator jobs? Cities with the most Operations Investigator job openings:
What states have the most Operations Investigator jobs? States with the most job openings for Operations Investigator jobs include:

Surveillance Investigator

VRC Investigations

Philadelphia, PA

$20.50 - $25.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 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/