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Private Investigator Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

C. Jackson Investigations, Inc.

Be Seen First

Investigative Analyst

Irvine, CA · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Are you interested in being a private investigator? Do you want to learn about how the world works below the pristine surface you see everyday? Does mystery intrigue you? Do you want to see behind ...

Frasco Inc

Medical Canvass Investigator

Irvine, CA · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

A private investigator license if required by your residential state Preferred Qualifications/Experience: * Previous experience with outbound calls or medical call offices * Previous investigative ...

Frasco Inc

Medical Canvass Investigator

Irvine, CA · Remote

$17 - $22/hr

A private investigator license if required by your residential state Preferred Qualifications/Experience: * Previous experience with outbound calls or medical call offices * Previous investigative ...

Ethos Risk Services

Entry-Level Investigator

Riverside, CA

$48K - $59K/yr

Have you ever thought about becoming a Private Investigator? Are you ready to kick-start your career in a rapidly growing industry? Want to get paid to learn how to investigate fraud and conduct ...

Frasco Inc

Medical Canvass Investigator

Irvine, CA · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

A private investigator license if required by your residential state Preferred Qualifications/Experience: * Previous experience with outbound calls or medical call offices * Previous investigative ...

Frasco, Inc.

Medical Canvass Investigator

Irvine, CA · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

A private investigator license if required by your residential state Preferred Qualifications/Experience: * Previous experience with outbound calls or medical call offices * Previous investigative ...

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All JobsPrivate Investigator JobsPrivate Investigator Jobs in Riverside, CA

Private Investigator information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$16

$27

$59

How much do private investigator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for private investigator 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 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 Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Private Investigator jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Private Investigator jobs in Riverside, CA? For Private Investigator jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Private Investigator jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Private Investigator jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Private Investigator jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Private Investigator job openings:
Private Investigator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Private Investigator job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,138 per year, or $28 per hour.

Private Investigator - Company Vehicle Provided!

PhotoFax

Highland, CA • On-site

$22 - $27/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 22 days ago

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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