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Private Investigator Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Ethos Risk Services

Investigator

Washington, DC · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Private Investigator License: Active Private Investigator license or willingness to obtain one (where required by state).WORKING CONDITIONS:While we aim to keep assignments within a 2-hour drive of ...

Ethos Risk Services

Investigator

Washington, DC

Private Investigator License: Active Private Investigator license or willingness to obtain one (where required by state). WORKING CONDITIONS: * While we aim to keep assignments within a 2-hour drive ...

Ethos Risk Services

Investigator

Washington, DC · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Private Investigator License: Active Private Investigator license or willingness to obtain one (where required by state). WORKING CONDITIONS: * While we aim to keep assignments within a 2-hour drive ...

Frasco Inc

Surveillance Investigator

Alexandria, VA

$20 - $26/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Virginia private investigator license * Valid driver's license with good driving record * Minimum Auto Insurance Coverage: $100,000 per person, $300,000 per accident bodily injury, and $50,000 ...

Frasco, Inc.

Surveillance Investigator

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Virginia private investigator license * Valid driver's license with good driving record * Minimum Auto Insurance Coverage: $100,000 per person, $300,000 per accident bodily injury, and $50,000 ...

Frasco Inc

Surveillance Investigator

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Virginia private investigator license * Valid driver's license with good driving record * Minimum Auto Insurance Coverage: $100,000 per person, $300,000 per accident bodily injury, and $50,000 ...

VRC Investigations

Surveillance Investigator

Silver Spring, MD

$22 - $27/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

A private investigator * Law enforcement * Loss prevention * Process Server * Security * Honorably discharged from any military branch Core Duties amp; Responsibilities: * Ability to conduct ...

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All JobsPrivate Investigator JobsPrivate Investigator Jobs in Reston, VA

Private Investigator information

See Reston, VA salary details

$16

$27

$59

How much do private investigator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for private investigator in Reston, VA is $27.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.26 and $28.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Private Investigator vs Security Guard?

AspectPrivate InvestigatorSecurity Guard
CredentialsLicensing, background checks, sometimes specialized trainingSecurity officer license, basic training
Work EnvironmentInvestigations, surveillance, background checksPatrols, access control, monitoring premises
Employer & IndustryPrivate firms, individuals, law firmsBusinesses, government agencies, private properties
Common Search & ComparisonInvestigative services, surveillanceSecurity services, patrols

While both roles involve security and safety, Private Investigators focus on investigations, surveillance, and gathering information, often requiring specialized licenses. Security Guards primarily monitor and protect property, providing a visible security presence. Understanding these differences helps clients choose the right professional for their needs.

What is a private investigator?

Private Investigators, often called PIs or private detectives, are professionals hired to gather information and conduct investigations on behalf of private clients, businesses, or attorneys. Their work may include surveillance, background checks, locating missing persons, or uncovering fraud. PIs often use a combination of research, interviews, and observation to collect evidence. They must follow the law and may need to be licensed, depending on the state or country. Private Investigators often work independently or for private investigation agencies.

What are some common challenges private investigators face when conducting surveillance, and how can they overcome them?

Private investigators often encounter challenges such as maintaining discretion, adapting to unpredictable situations, and dealing with uncooperative subjects during surveillance. Successfully overcoming these obstacles requires strong observational skills, patience, and the ability to quickly adjust strategies without drawing attention. Many investigators use advanced technology, like discreet cameras and GPS tracking, and work in teams to ensure continuous coverage while minimizing risk of detection. Collaboration with clients and legal professionals also helps in setting clear objectives and staying within legal boundaries during investigations.

What disqualifies you from being a private investigator?

Private investigators are typically disqualified if they have a felony conviction, a history of dishonesty or fraud, or if they fail to meet licensing requirements such as age, background checks, or relevant training. Good moral character and adherence to legal standards are essential for licensing and employment in this field.

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 generally need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a background in criminal justice or a related field; licensure is often required by state law. Familiarity with surveillance equipment, databases, and investigative software is essential for conducting thorough investigations. Discretion, persistence, and strong communication skills help build trust with clients and gather accurate information. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring reliable, lawful, and effective investigations that meet client needs.

What do private investigators do?

Private Investigators are professionals who are hired, either by an individual or group, to investigate someone or something of legitimate interest to them. They are sometimes employed by individuals to explore suspicious activity by a family member or someone they know. Attorneys hire Private Investigators to gather information for their cases. Insurance companies often utilize Private Investigators to research claims and suspicions of fraud.

More about Private Investigator jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Private Investigator jobs in Reston, VA?

The most popular types of Private Investigator jobs in Reston, VA are:

What are popular job titles related to Private Investigator jobs in Reston, VA?

For Private Investigator jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Private Investigator jobs in Reston, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Private Investigator jobs in Reston, VA are:

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Private Investigator jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Private Investigator job openings:

Private Investigator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Private Investigator job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 62% Full Time, and 38% Part Time. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,975 per year, or $27.9 per hour.

Private Investigator - Company Vehicle Provided!

PhotoFax

Woodbridge, VA • On-site

$22 - $28.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Job description:

Private Investigator - Company Vehicle Provided!

$1500.00 Signing Bonus!!

PhotoFax, Inc., a nationwide private detective agency, is currently hiring surveillance investigators to join our team in the greater Woodbridge, VA 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 Woodbridge, VA 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

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Travel reimbursement
  • Vision insurance

License/Certification:

  • Driver's License (Required)

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Travel reimbursement
  • Vision insurance

License/Certification:

  • Driver's License (Required)

Work Location: In person

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance

License/Certification:

  • Driver's License (Required)

Work Location: In person

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:


  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance


License/Certification:


  • Driver's License (Required)