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Part Time Investigator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

We have an exciting and highly rewarding part-time Fire & Explosion Investigator opportunity in the Northern California area. If you have your CFI, 5 years of practical experience in Fire & Explosion ...

We have an exciting and highly rewarding part-time Fire & Explosion Investigator opportunity in the Northern California area. If you have your CFI, 5 years of practical experience in Fire & Explosion ...

Investigator

San Diego, CA · Remote

$20 - $28/hr

Investigator Job Location ... Orange, California Job Type: Part-Time, Billable Hours, Non-exempt Reports To : Regional Manager ...

Investigator

Los Angeles, CA · Remote

$22 - $28/hr

Investigator Job Location ... Los Angeles, California Job Type: Full-Time or Part-Time/Flexible Schedule, Billable Hours, Non ...

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Showing results 1-20

Part Time Investigator information

See California salary details

$31.6K

$74.3K

$129.3K

How much do part time investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for part time investigator in California is $74,338.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,800.00 and $97,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a part time investigator do?

A part time investigator is a professional hired to conduct investigations on a flexible or limited schedule, rather than full-time. Their duties often include gathering evidence, conducting interviews, performing surveillance, and preparing reports for clients or employers. Part time investigators may work on cases such as background checks, fraud detection, insurance claims, or legal matters, depending on their area of specialization. They typically work for private investigation firms, legal teams, insurance companies, or independently. Flexibility and strong analytical skills are important in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a part time investigator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Part Time Investigator, you need strong analytical abilities, attention to detail, and prior investigative or law enforcement experience, often supported by a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with case management systems, surveillance equipment, and legal research tools is typically required. Excellent communication, discretion, and problem-solving skills help you build trust and gather accurate information. These skills are crucial for conducting thorough investigations, ensuring legal compliance, and delivering reliable results to clients or employers.

What are some common challenges faced by part time investigators, and how can they be managed?

Part-time investigators often face challenges related to time management and case prioritization, as they may need to juggle multiple assignments within limited working hours. It's important to communicate clearly with supervisors about availability and deadlines, and to develop strong organizational skills to ensure that investigations remain thorough and timely. Additionally, part-time investigators may need to collaborate closely with full-time colleagues to stay updated on case developments and maintain continuity. Building strong professional relationships within the team and utilizing case management tools can help overcome these challenges.

What is the difference between Part Time Investigator vs Part Time Private Investigator?

AspectPart Time InvestigatorPart Time Private Investigator
CredentialsMay require basic investigative training or licensing depending on jurisdictionOften requires licensing, background checks, and specific certifications
Work EnvironmentVaries; may work for agencies, law enforcement, or private firmsPrimarily in private settings, conducting surveillance, background checks
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies, private investigation firms, corporate securityPrivate clients, attorneys, insurance companies

Both roles involve investigative work but differ mainly in licensing requirements and work settings. Part Time Private Investigators typically operate independently or for private firms, focusing on personal or corporate cases, while Part Time Investigators may work within law enforcement or security agencies. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

Can I be a part time investigator as a side hustle?

Part time investigators can often work as a side hustle if they have the necessary licensing, background check clearance, and relevant skills such as surveillance or interviewing. Scheduling flexibility and adherence to legal requirements are important factors to consider when taking on additional investigative work.

Can you be a part-time investigator?

Yes, part-time investigator positions are available in various fields such as private investigation, insurance claims, and security. These roles often require relevant skills, background checks, and sometimes licensing or certifications, depending on the industry and jurisdiction.

What are the most commonly searched types of Investigator jobs in California?

The most popular types of Investigator jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Part Time Investigator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Part Time Investigator job openings:

Infographic showing various Part Time Investigator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,338 per year, or $35.7 per hour.

Experienced Background Investigator (West Region)

CACI International

Sacramento, CA

$50K - $62K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Experienced Background Investigator (West Region)

Job Category: Service Contract Act

Time Type: Full time

Minimum Clearance Required to Start: Top Secret

Employee Type: Regular

Percentage of Travel Required: Up to 10%

Type of Travel: Local

At CACI, background investigation is more than research and reports-it's a critical role in ensuring the safety and security of our nation. By joining our team, you'll be part of an organization that values trust, integrity, and professionalism in everything we do. As an industry-leading provider of federal background investigations since 2004, CACI employs full-time and part-time investigators across all 50 U.S. states, Puerto Rico, Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and other U.S. territories.

This is a remote role, and you must live with in 50 miles of the below location openings.

Phoenix, AZ

Tucson, AZ

San Jose, CA

Denver, CO

Fairbanks, AK

Anchorage, AK

San Bernardino, CA

Portland, OR

Seattle, WA

Idaho Falls, ID

Fort Collins, CO

San Francisco, CA

China Lake, CA

What You'll Get to Do

  • Use technology, electronic tools, and multiple systems simultaneously to conduct comprehensive interviews with subjects, employers, associates, references, and other knowledgeable individuals as well as review appropriate records to obtain facts. Resolve all material issues in a case to establish the background, reputation, character, suitability, or qualifications of the subject under investigation. Interviews for this position will be conducted using a variety of methods, including Virtual Teleconference (VTC), phone interviews, and in-person meetings, with VTC as the primary method.
  • Complete a one-week intensive virtual, online training program
  • Potential travel to locations across the U.S. for temporary duty assignments (TDY), typically lasting 2 weeks
  • Gain exposure to various investigation contracts, broadening your experience

You'll Bring These Qualifications

  • Customer credential or the ability to obtain based on National Training Standard certification and experience recently conducting background investigations for this customer
  • Proven quality, timeliness, and production metrics
  • Bachelor's Degree or 4 years of general experience demonstrating progressive responsibility in problem solving, planning and organizing work, and communicating effectively orally and in writing
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a favorable determination based on a T5 Investigation
  • Strong sense of mission in supporting national security initiatives
  • Impeccable work ethic, integrity, and a positive, can-do attitude
  • Ability to navigate and utilize multiple technology systems simultaneously to maintain workflow efficiency and productivity
  • Current driver's license, reliable personal vehicle, and willingness to travel locally dependent on assignment location
  • Home office within reasonable distance to areas workload and equipped with reliable high-speed Internet ($50 monthly internet stipend is provided)
  • Ability to sit, type, stand, or walk for extended periods of time
  • Excellent time management skills and the ability to prioritizeeffectively
  • Exceptional written and oral communication skills, including the ability to:
  • Communicate complex or sensitive information effectively to individuals or groups
  • Listen attentively to others, respond appropriately to nonverbal cues, and make clear and convincing oral presentations
  • Maintain strong relationships with diverse individuals and handle challenging situations with tact and professionalism
  • Recognizes or uses correct English grammar, punctuation, and spelling; communicates information (for example, facts, ideas, or messages) in a succinct and organized manner; produces written information, which may include technical material that is appropriate for the intended audience

This position is contingent on funding and may not be filled immediately. However, this position is representative of positions within CACI that are consistently available. Individuals who apply may also be considered for other positions at CACI.

What You Can Expect:

A culture of integrity.

At CACI, we place character and innovation at the center of everything we do. As a valued team member, you'll be part of a high-performing group dedicated to our customer's missions and driven by a higher purpose - to ensure the safety of our nation.

An environment of trust.

CACI values the unique contributions that every employee brings to our company and our customers - every day. You'll have the autonomy to take the time you need through a unique flexible time off benefit and have access to robust learning resources to make your ambitions a reality.

A focus on continuous growth.

Together, we will advance our nation's most critical missions, build on our lengthy track record of business success, and find opportunities to break new ground - in your career and in our legacy.

Pay Range:

This posting is for a position covered by the Service Contract Labor Standards (SCA). The pay and benefits provided for this position will meet or exceed the minimum required amounts detailed in the wage determination issued by the Department of Labor and made applicable to this position, as incorporated into CACI's government contract for the work location.

Since the position can be worked in more than one location, the rate shown is the Minimum Wage for Federal Contractors. The actual rate will be based on contract, location and job classification.

Minimum Required Hourly Wage: ?

$26.07

There are a host of other factors that can influence final salary including, but not limited to, geographical location, relevant prior work experience, specific skills and competencies, education, and certifications. Our employees value the flexibility at CACI that allows them to balance quality work and their personal lives. We offer competitive compensation, benefits and learning and development opportunities. Our broad and competitive mix of benefits options is designed to support and protect employees and their families. At CACI, you will receive comprehensive benefits such as; healthcare, wellness, financial, retirement, family support, continuing education, and time off benefits.

CACI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected characteristic.