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Private Investigator Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

City of Hemet

Civilian Investigator - TPT

Hemet, CA

$26 - $34.84/hr

One or more years with a private, public or law enforcement agency conducting investigative and crime analysis type work. CERTIFICATIONS/LICENSES Must possess and maintain a valid California Driver ...

Allied Universal

Surveillance Investigator

San Dimas, CA · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Allied Universal ® Compliance and Investigation Services is the premier destination for a career in insurance claim investigation. As a global leader, we provide dynamic opportunities for claim ...

Allied Universal

Surveillance Investigator

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Allied Universal Compliance and Investigation Services is the premier destination for a career in insurance claim investigation. As a global leader, we provide dynamic opportunities for claim ...

Allied Universal

Surveillance Investigator

Orange, CA

$20 - $24/hr

Allied Universal Compliance and Investigation Services is the premier destination for a career in insurance claim investigation. As a global leader, we provide dynamic opportunities for claim ...

Nihon Kohden

Complaint Investigator

Irvine, CA · On-site

$24 - $38/hr

The Complaint Investigator is responsible for conducting investigations on product complaints for company manufactured and distributed products as required by applicable regulations, standards, and ...

Nihon Kohden USA

Complaint Investigator

Irvine, CA · On-site

$24 - $38/hr

The Complaint Investigator is responsible for conducting investigations on product complaints for company manufactured and distributed products as required by applicable regulations, standards, and ...

Nihon Kohden America

Complaint Investigator

Irvine, CA · On-site

$24 - $38/hr

The Complaint Investigator is responsible for conducting investigations on product complaints for company manufactured and distributed products as required by applicable regulations, standards, and ...

Frasco, Inc.

Surveillance Investigator

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

Surveillance Investigator Job Location : Santa Ana, California Job Type: Full-Time, Billable Hours, Non-exempt Eager to start your career in a growing industry? Get paid to learn the ropes of fraud ...

Frasco Inc

Surveillance Investigator

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

Surveillance Investigator Job Location : Santa Ana, California Job Type: Full-Time, Billable Hours, Non-exempt Eager to start your career in a growing industry? Get paid to learn the ropes of fraud ...

Frasco Inc

Surveillance Investigator

Santa Ana, CA

$20 - $26/hr

Surveillance Investigator Job Location : Santa Ana, California Job Type: Full-Time, Billable Hours, Non-exempt Eager to start your career in a growing industry? Get paid to learn the ropes of fraud ...

Medix

Investigator

Riverside, CA · On-site

$144.23/hr

Job Summary Our client is seeking an experienced Investigator to lead and oversee clinical trials, ensuring compliance with protocol requirements, regulatory standards, and ethical guidelines. The ...

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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 Sep 3, 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 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 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.

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 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 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.

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, 71% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,138 per year, or $28 per hour.

Senior Fire Investigator , IAAI-CFI

Efi global

Anaheim, CA • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

The 'Apply with SEEK option' will be utilized for International applicants, mainly Australia. If this does not apply to you please use the 'Apply' option.

IF YOU CARE, THERE'S A PLACE FOR YOU HERE

EFI Global is a full-service engineering, fire investigation, environmental, health and safety, and specialty consulting services firm serving a variety of industries in both the public and private sectors. Over the last four decades, we have grown from a boutique firm specializing in handling insurance fraud and arson cases and providing expert witness testimony, into a recognized global leader in engineering failure analysis, origin-and-cause investigations, environmental consulting, laboratory testing and specialty consulting. Our forensic investigation, engineering and environmental services teams around the world share a dedication to expertise, quality and demonstrating to customers that caring counts. Each of our more than 700 professional engineers, fire investigators, architects and scientists was selected for their technical proficiency, in-depth industry knowledge and commitment to professional integrity. Together, our diverse backgrounds and collective insights empower clients to make better-informed business decisions. EFI's combination of global solutions and local expertise has earned the firm a reputation for delivering timely responses that consistently meet our clients' expectations-anytime, anywhere. Click here to learn more about EFI Global.

We are seeking an experienced Fire Investigator based in the greater Los Angeles area to support complex origin and cause investigations in a fulltime, remote role. This position is ideal for a selfdirected professional who values technical rigor, clear communication, and teamwork while delivering unbiased, defensible findings. IAAICFI certification is strongly preferred, with NAFICFEI required at minimum, reflecting our commitment to industry standards, safety, and integrity. You will work collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team to provide clients with reliable conclusions and exceptional service across the region. Prefer Candidate live within 75 miles of Los Angeles, CA.

PRIMARY PURPOSE:To independently conduct extensive and detailed investigations to determine origin & cause of fires and explosions, primarily involving structures and determining the cause of fires in commercial buildings or residences.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS and RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Investigates assigned claims suspected of insurance fraud, this includes large loss, large fire loss, and multiple claims.
  • Ensures that assigned cases are investigated and reported back to the requesting party in adherence to best practices. Anticipates training needs of customers based on customer exposure and antifraud initiatives.
  • Investigates site and provides expert testimony based on determination of the origin & cause of fires and relates findings in a clear and concise manner in depositions and trials.
  • Maintains assigned claims files in a confidential manner; documents all relevant facts pertaining to files in the appropriate claims handling system(s) and keeps management informed of developments that impact claims results.
  • Reviews and makes recommendations on outcomes of investigations in a prompt and expeditious manner. Provides guidance and recommendations to claims leadership and associates on claims resolution.
  • Develops and maintains rapport and cooperation with federal, state and local government agencies, as well as private information bureaus that can assist in investigative efforts.
  • Identifies and interviews all witnesses or involved persons who may possess information or knowledge pertaining to incident under investigation: motive, opportunity or any other information or evidence. Independently concludes investigations and determines negligence and violation of laws.
  • Possesses necessary knowledge and expertise required to conduct thorough inspection of available public records including land deeds, mortgages, liens, suits, judgments, marriage and divorce records, etc.
  • Maintains and pursues technical competency within area of specialization with regard to existing laws pertaining to rights of privacy and availability of public records to assure that all investigations are conducted in a completely legal and ethical manner.
  • May provide investigative guidance to Fire Investigator team members
ADDITIONAL FUNCTIONS and RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
  • Supports the organization's quality program(s).
  • Travels as required.
QUALIFICATIONSEducation & Licensing
  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university preferred.
  • IAAI Certified Fire Investigator (IAAI-CFI) certification is preferred
  • Certified Fire & Explosion Investigator (CFEI) certification, minimum requirement for consideration.
Experience
Five (5) years of fire investigation experience or equivalent combination of education and experience required.Skills & Knowledge
  • Strong oral and written communication skills
  • PC literate, including advanced Microsoft Office products
  • Strong organizational and time management skills
  • Strong interpersonal skills
  • Good analytical and interpretive skills
  • Strong investigative skills
  • Attention to detail and accuracy
  • Ability to work independently or in a team environment
  • Ability to meet or exceed Performance Competencies
WORK ENVIRONMENT
When applicable and appropriate, consideration will be given to reasonable accommodations.Mental:Clear and conceptual thinking ability; excellent judgment and discretion; ability to handle work-related stress; ability to handle multiple priorities simultaneously; and ability to meet deadlinesPhysical:
  • Must be able to stand and/or walk for long periods of time.
  • Must be able to kneel, squat or bend.
  • Must be able to work outdoors in hot and/or cold weather conditions.
  • Have the ability to climb, crawl, stoop, kneel, reaching/working overhead,
  • Be able lift/carry up to 50 pounds
  • Be able to push/pull up to 100 pounds.
  • Be able to drive up to 4 hours per day.
Auditory/Visual: Hearing, vision and talkingNEXT STEPSIf your application is selected to advance to the next round, you will receive an e-mail notification or phone call from a recruiter to schedule an initial call.

#LI-SC2 #LI-Remote

#CertifiedFireInvestigator #FireInvestigator #OriginAndCause #ArsonInvestigation #FireScience #ForensicInvestigation #IAAICFI #NAFICFEI

#InsuranceClaims #ExpertWitness #ElectricalFireInvestigation #FireAnalysis #RemoteWork #LitigationWork #JoinOurTeam

As required by law, Sedgwick provides a reasonable range of compensation for roles that may be hired in jurisdictions requiring pay transparency in job postings. Actual compensation is influenced by a wide range of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, and cost of specific location. For the jurisdiction noted in this job posting only, the range of starting pay for this role is $85,000 - $ 95,000. A comprehensive benefits package is offered including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, 401k and matching, PTO, disability and life insurance, employee assistance, flexible spending or health savings account, and other additional voluntary benefits.

The statements contained in this document are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by a colleague assigned to this description. They are not intended to constitute a comprehensive list of functions, duties, or local variances. Management retains the discretion to add or to change the duties of the position at any time.

Qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers, the City of Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, the San Diego Fair Chance Ordinance, the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, the California Fair Chance Act, and all other applicable laws.

Sedgwickis an Equal Opportunity Employer and a Drug-Free Workplace

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