1

Professional Investigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Two (2) years of progressively responsible professional investigative experience which demonstrates initiative, ingenuity, resourcefulness, and judgment required to collect, assemble, and develop ...

Two (2) years of progressively responsible professional investigative experience which demonstrates initiative, ingenuity, resourcefulness, and judgment required to collect, assemble, and develop ...

Two (2) years of progressively responsible professional investigative experience which demonstrates initiative, ingenuity, resourcefulness, and judgment required to collect, assemble, and develop ...

Two (2) years of progressively responsible professional investigative experience which demonstrates initiative, ingenuity, resourcefulness, and judgment required to collect, assemble, and develop ...

Showing results 41-60

Professional Investigator information

See salary details

$32K

$75.3K

$131K

How much do professional investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for professional investigator in the United States is $75,325.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,500.00 and $98,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Professional Investigator vs Private Investigator?

AspectProfessional InvestigatorPrivate Investigator
CredentialsMay require licensing, background checks, and investigative trainingOften licensed, with similar licensing requirements depending on state
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, corporate security, legal firmsPrivate firms, individuals, legal cases
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement, government, corporate securityPrivate clients, attorneys, insurance companies
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for investigative skills and licensingCommonly searched as a related role in investigations

Professional Investigators and Private Investigators share many similarities, including licensing requirements and investigative skills. However, Professional Investigators often work within government agencies or corporations, focusing on legal, security, or corporate investigations. Private Investigators typically serve private clients or attorneys, handling personal or legal cases. Both roles require similar credentials and operate in investigative environments, but their employment settings and client bases differ.

What are some typical challenges professional investigators face when gathering information for a case?

Professional investigators often encounter challenges such as uncooperative witnesses, limited access to information, and rapidly changing case circumstances. Maintaining discretion and adhering to legal boundaries is crucial, especially when conducting surveillance or background checks. Effective investigators must be adaptable, resourceful, and possess strong communication skills to overcome obstacles and deliver accurate results for their clients or employers.

What kind of professional investigator makes the most money?

Private investigators with specialized skills such as cyber investigation, corporate security, or forensic analysis tend to earn higher salaries. Those working in corporate or high-stakes environments, often with advanced certifications and experience, generally make the most money in the field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a professional investigator?

To thrive as a Professional Investigator, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and investigative techniques, often supported by a background in criminal justice or relevant certification. Familiarity with surveillance equipment, databases, and case management software is typically required. Excellent communication, discretion, and critical thinking are standout soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure thorough, legal, and ethical investigations that produce reliable results for clients or employers.
What cities are hiring for Professional Investigator jobs? Cities with the most Professional Investigator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Investigator jobs? The most popular types of Investigator jobs are:
What states have the most Professional Investigator jobs? States with the most job openings for Professional Investigator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Professional Investigator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,325 per year, or $36.2 per hour.

INVESTIGATOR, PREA

The GEO Group

Baldwin, MI

$29/hr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


The GEO Group rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 53 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 43 rated prisons


Job description

Overview

Are you looking for a career you can feel good about? We hire only those that strive to do their best. By joining our family, you'll receive the honor and recognition that comes with working for the industry's global leader in evidenced based rehabilitation.

Who We Are:

GEO provides complementary, turnkey solutions for numerous government partners worldwide across a spectrum of diversified correctional and community reentry services. From the development of state-of-the-art facilities and the provision of management services and evidence-based rehabilitation to the post-release reintegration and supervision of individuals in the community, GEO offers fully diversified, cost-effective services that deliver enhanced quality and improved outcomes.

Why Work for GEO:

  • We believe that work is more than a place you go to every day. It is about being inspired and motivated to achieve extraordinary things.
  • Employee benefits play an important role in making The GEO Group a great place to work. At GEO, we believe in the three pillars of employee wellbeing: physical, emotional, and financial. With comprehensive benefits and competitive wages, we trust that you will find all the resources you need here to be successful.

Responsibilities

Summary:
The Investigator, PREA is responsible for conducting all PREA-related investigations assigned to the facility. Responds to and processes potential crime scenes. Prepares investigative reports associated with and adheres to all standards issued by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in regard to the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA).

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

  • The Investigator, PREA conducts investigative reports by determining appropriate information, interviewing, researching, and other necessary duties to fully understand the nature of the event.
  • Writes reports that explain findings using PREA standards.
  • The Investigator, PREA recommends appropriate action if necessary.
  • Acts as liaison between Contract Compliance PREA section and other departments in coordination with Prevention of Sexual Abuse (PSA) Compliance Administrator.
  • The Investigator, PREA consults with Corporate PREA team and OPR to ensure investigations are thoroughly completed in accordance with established PREA policies.
  • Works closely with the facility PSA Compliance Administrator and facility PREA response team.
  • The Investigator, PREA participates in Sexual Abuse Incident Reviews and After-Action Reviews as required by established policies.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

  • High School diploma or GED certification required.
  • Four (4) years of experience in a correctional setting. Two (2) years of progressively responsible professional investigative experience which demonstrates initiative, ingenuity, resourcefulness, and judgment required to collect, assemble, and develop facts and other pertinent data.
  • Ability to think logically and objectively, to analyze and evaluate facts, evidence and related information, and arrive at sound conclusions.
  • Ability to write reports and make oral presentations of investigative findings in a clear and concise manner.
  • Ability to use tact, discretion, and capacity for obtaining the cooperation and confidence of others.
  • Knowledge of the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) preferred
  • Ability to work independently or in collaboration with others.
  • Well organized, multi-task oriented.
  • Ability to communicate effectively through verbal and written correspondence.
  • Ability to develop accurate and effective reports that may explain technical information.
  • Ability to work with computers and the applicable software used by the department
  • Must successfully complete specialized training: Investigating Sexual Abuse in Correctional Settings and GEO OPR Investigations Training.
  • Ability to obtain certification for training such as CPR, First Aid and firearms.
  • Ability to maintain high tolerance to mental stress.
  • Ability to understand and carry out moderately complex oral and written instructions.
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying climatic conditions.
  • Ability to work with computers and the necessary software typically used by the department.
  • Must be at least twenty-one (21) years of age.

GEO Secured Services


What The GEO Group employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom