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Private Investigation Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Ethos Risk Services

Investigator

Murrieta, CA

Ethos Risk Services is a leading insurance claims investigation and medical management company ... Private Investigator License: Active Private Investigator license or willingness to obtain one ...

Ethos Risk Services

Investigator

Murrieta, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Ethos Risk Services is a leading insurance claims investigation and medical management company ... Private Investigator License: Active Private Investigator license or willingness to obtain one ...

Ethos Risk Services

Investigator

Murrieta, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Ethos Risk Services is a leading insurance claims investigation and medical management company ... Private Investigator License: Active Private Investigator license or willingness to obtain one ...

Frasco Inc

Medical Canvass Investigator

Irvine, CA · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

Preparing detailed and accurate investigation reports and submitting findings promptly ... A private investigator license if required by your residential state Preferred Qualifications ...

Posted today

Frasco Inc

Medical Canvass Investigator

Irvine, CA · Remote

$17 - $22/hr

Preparing detailed and accurate investigation reports and submitting findings promptly ... A private investigator license if required by your residential state Preferred Qualifications ...

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All JobsPrivate Investigation JobsPrivate Investigation Jobs in Riverside, CA

Private Investigation information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$16

$27

$59

How much do private investigation jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for private investigation in Riverside, CA is $27.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.31 and $28.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paying investigator job?

The highest paying investigator jobs are often in corporate or executive security, private forensic investigation, or specialized fields like cybersecurity investigation, which require advanced skills and certifications. These roles typically offer higher salaries due to their complexity, expertise requirements, and the sensitive nature of the work.

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

To thrive as a Private Investigator, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of laws and investigative techniques, often supported by a relevant license or law enforcement background. Familiarity with surveillance equipment, digital research tools, and case management software is typically required. Excellent communication, discretion, and persistence are vital soft skills for building trust and conducting effective investigations. These skills and qualities are crucial for gathering credible evidence, ensuring legal compliance, and successfully resolving cases.

How much money does a private investigator make?

Private investigators typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $60,000, though earnings can vary based on experience, location, and specialization. Some private investigators work freelance or part-time, which can affect income levels, and additional skills such as surveillance or cyber investigation may influence earning potential.

What do private investigators do?

Private investigators, also known as private detectives, are professionals hired to gather information, conduct surveillance, and solve cases that require discretion and expertise. They may work on cases involving missing persons, background checks, infidelity, fraud, or legal investigations. Private investigators use a combination of research, interviews, surveillance, and technology to uncover facts and provide clients with accurate information. Often, they work independently or for private investigation firms and must adhere to legal and ethical standards.

What are some common challenges private investigators face when gathering information for clients?

Private investigators often encounter challenges such as limited access to certain records, uncooperative witnesses, and the need to operate discreetly to avoid detection. Additionally, balancing ethical and legal boundaries is crucial, as violating privacy laws can have serious consequences. Effective investigators must also manage varying client expectations and work irregular hours, including nights and weekends, to conduct surveillance or interviews.

How do private investigators get hired?

Private investigators typically get hired through referrals, advertising, or by establishing relationships with clients such as law firms, insurance companies, or individuals. They often need to have relevant experience, a clean background, and may require licensing or certification depending on the jurisdiction. Building a reputation for reliability and discretion is essential for securing clients.

Do PIs make a lot of money?

Private investigators (PIs) can earn varying salaries depending on experience, location, and specialization. Entry-level PIs typically earn lower wages, while experienced professionals with specialized skills or working independently can earn higher incomes, sometimes exceeding $70,000 annually. Income also depends on the number of cases handled and the complexity of investigations.

What is the difference between Private Investigation vs Private Security Officer?

AspectPrivate InvestigationPrivate Security Officer
Required CredentialsLicensing, background check, sometimes specialized trainingLicensing or certification varies by state, basic training often required
Work EnvironmentConducting investigations, surveillance, interviewsPatrolling premises, monitoring security systems
Employer & Industry UsagePrivate firms, attorneys, corporationsSecurity companies, retail stores, events

Private Investigation and Private Security Officers both require licensing and often similar certifications. However, private investigators focus on gathering information, conducting surveillance, and solving cases, while private security officers primarily protect property and ensure safety. Their work environments and employer types overlap but serve different primary functions.

What are popular job titles related to Private Investigation jobs in Riverside, CA? For Private Investigation jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Private Investigation jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Private Investigation jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Private Investigation jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Private Investigation job openings:
Private Investigation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Private Investigation job openings in Riverside, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $58,138 per year, or $28 per hour.
Private Investigator - Company Vehicle Provided!

Private Investigator - Company Vehicle Provided!

PhotoFax

Highland, CA • On-site

$22 - $27/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Private Investigator - Company Vehicle Provided!
PhotoFax, Inc., a nationwide private detective agency, is currently hiring surveillance investigators to join our team in the San Bernardino/LA, CA region.
If you like to work autonomously in dynamic environments, surveillance investigations provide an exciting career path meant just for you! Join the PhotoFax team today and we provide the tools necessary to start your career as a Private Investigator.
What your day will look like:
  • Monitoring, pursuing, and documenting individuals in a covert manner from a company issued-fully customized surveillance vehicle
  • Pre and post surveillance briefing with your case manager to discuss objectives, surveillance tactics, and case details
  • Detailed reporting on daily case observations
  • Uploading video evidence obtained to the company database
  • Occasional Regional Travel (in the company issued vehicle)

View our recruiting video: https://vimeo.com/323925447/1451b7a16e
What you will gain:
  • Experience that will lead to other opportunities in:
  • Investigations
  • Law enforcement
  • Upper claims management
  • Growth within PhotoFax
  • A company issued vehicle customized for surveillance and all equipment necessary to do the job
  • Hands on training with our experienced trainers with 34 years of investigative knowledge
  • Full health benefits package including matching 401K
  • Performance based reviews and bonuses
  • Paid overtime and travel

What you need to apply:
  • High school diploma
  • Associates/Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice/Criminology/Law Enforcement preferred
  • Valid driver's license
  • Clean driving record with minimal infractions
  • Must currently reside in the greater San Bernardino/LA, CA area
  • Flexibility to work any day of the week, including weekends and holidays
  • Willingness to travel with occasional overnight stays
  • No previous experience is necessary; we provide all training and licensing

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