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Special Investigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SIU Investigator - Fast Team

Glendale, CA · On-site

$23.50 - $30.25/hr

The Special Investigator 1 will complete field and desk assignments that support insurance claims referred to and accepted for investigation by the Special Investigative Unit. Basic functions include ...

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Special Investigator information

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$46K

$78.4K

$117K

How much do special investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for special investigator in the United States is $78,360.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,000.00 and $84,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a special investigator?

Special Investigators are professionals who conduct thorough investigations into specific issues such as fraud, misconduct, or violations of laws and regulations. They may work for government agencies, private companies, or insurance firms, gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and preparing detailed reports. Their work often supports legal actions or organizational decisions, and they must maintain confidentiality and adhere to strict ethical standards. Special Investigators typically have backgrounds in law enforcement, criminal justice, or related fields.

What does a special investigator do?

Special Investigators work in areas like crime and fraud prevention. They specialize in taking a complaint or suspicious activity about a person or organization and digging deeper. It’s their responsibility to help find, uncover, and report on background information related to the core case. Special Investigators gather, organize, and analyze data which may include legal, financial, criminal, and personal activities, and then determine if the information gives any insight into the case at hand. In many instances, this position requires licensure to ensure that they can legitimately have access to certain confidential information. A Special Investigator might conduct investigative duties via personal computers and databases, online, during witness interviews, or while conducting open or covert surveillance.

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

To thrive as a Special Investigator, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a background in criminal justice or a related field, often with previous investigative experience. Familiarity with case management systems, surveillance technology, and sometimes certifications such as Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) or relevant law enforcement training are common. Excellent communication, critical thinking, and ethical judgment are standout soft skills for building trust and navigating complex cases. These skills ensure thorough, unbiased investigations and support the integrity and accuracy of findings in legal or regulatory environments.

What are some common challenges special investigators face when conducting investigations, and how can they be addressed?

Special Investigators often encounter challenges such as gathering reliable evidence, working with uncooperative witnesses, and navigating complex legal or regulatory requirements. To address these challenges, it's important to maintain strong attention to detail, develop effective communication and interview techniques, and stay up-to-date on relevant laws and policies. Collaboration with other investigative professionals and regular training can also help Special Investigators overcome obstacles and ensure thorough, accurate investigations.

What is the difference between Special Investigator vs Private Investigator?

AspectSpecial InvestigatorPrivate Investigator
CredentialsMay require law enforcement or military background, specialized trainingTypically requires licensing, background checks, and sometimes certifications
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, law enforcement, military, or corporate securityPrivate firms, individuals, or corporations
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, law enforcement, military, corporate securityPrivate investigation agencies, individuals, legal firms

Special Investigators often have law enforcement or military backgrounds and work within government or corporate settings, focusing on criminal, security, or intelligence cases. Private Investigators typically operate independently or for private firms, handling personal, legal, or corporate investigations. Both roles require licensing and share some investigative skills, but their work environments and employer types differ significantly.

What are the duties of a special investigator?

A special investigator conducts detailed investigations into specific cases such as fraud, misconduct, or criminal activity. They gather evidence, interview witnesses, analyze data, and prepare reports to support legal or organizational actions. These roles often require strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of investigative techniques and tools.

What cities are hiring for Special Investigator jobs?

Cities with the most Special Investigator job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Special Investigator jobs?

The most popular types of Special Investigator jobs are:

Who are the top companies hiring for Special Investigator jobs?

The top employers for Special Investigator jobs are:

What states have the most Special Investigator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Special Investigator jobs include:

Infographic showing various Special Investigator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,360 per year, or $37.7 per hour.

Investigator - Office of Special Investigations

StateJobsNY

Albany, NY • On-site

$71K - $87K/yr

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

Duties Description The NYS DOCCS Office of Special Investigations (OSI) is seeking qualified candidates for consideration to serve as an Investigator in one of its five divisions with cross-over and collaboration among divisions. The (new) Public Integrity Division (PID) investigates a wide range of allegations of violations of the Department's policies and criminal laws, including staff misconduct, particularly physical and sexual abuse of incarcerated individuals; unattended deaths of incarcerated individuals; unauthorized relationships between staff and incarcerated individuals or parolees; various forms of harassment or other misconduct; theft and fraud; and escape plots. The Criminal Investigations Division (CID) investigates a range of criminal activities associated with NYS DOCCS, including but not limited to the following: violent acts resulting in serious injury or death, threats of violence, gun and drug distribution and possession, contraband smuggling, and criminal organizations engaged in extremist violence or terrorist activities. CID participates in several task forces and intelligence centers. The Canine Division has specially trained canines to detect dangerous drugs and contraband electronics (e.g., cellular phones) and is dedicated to interdicting controlled substances and other contraband. The Fugitive Investigations Division (FID) specializes in fugitive apprehensions and returning fugitives to New York. The Intake, Training, and Analysis Division (ITAD) is responsible for the processing of thousands of complaints annually, the training of OSI staff, and performing analysis of data to identify potential issues and prioritize resource allocation and provide OSI with a tactical, case by case analytical role, providing investigators with direction and support in their investigations.
Minimum Qualifications The NYS Department of Corrections and Community Supervision Office of Special Investigations (DOCCS OSI) is seeking qualified candidates to be considered for several openings across New York State as an Investigator in one of OSI's divisions. The OSI division and office location would be determined based upon the needs of the Department and OSI.
An Investigator is responsible for conducting investigations pertaining the subject matter of the assigned division within the assigned geographic region. Investigators are required to manage their own caseload and independently conduct investigative activities, and work well with superiors, peers, subordinates, facility staff, and all others. Investigators also work with other investigators on special operations, such as surprise inspections, parole absconder details, and monitoring operations. The Investigator will report directly to a Senior Investigator within the assigned division, with additional supervision by the Assistant Deputy Chief Investigator and Deputy Chief Investigator.
The minimum qualifications include two years' investigative, law enforcement, or public safety experience; or a two-year associate degree or 60 college-level credits. Candidates should also have exhibited demonstrated leadership qualities. Knowledge of the subject matter and criminal justice or similar subject-matter studies are beneficial but not required. OSI investigative staff must possess, at a minimum, knowledge of the applicable laws, the highest levels of behavior including personal integrity and ethics; fairness; character; judgment; attitude; and respect for and ability to work with others inside and outside OSI. Appropriate licensure and certifications (including being or becoming a peace officer qualified to carry a firearm) are also required. The ability to travel is also necessary. OSI is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion by ensuring equal justice and opportunity without discrimination against any person based on their protected class. All applicants must pass background checks.
Additional Comments All OSI Offices, namely Albany, Long Island City, Wallkill, Fishkill, Groveland, Dannemora, Utica, Rochester, Ogdensburg, or Buffalo. Office assignments are based upon the needs of OSI and the Department. Travel is required.
This position is overtime eligible.
Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity.
Name Office of Special Investigations, Attn: Recruitment and Hiring
Telephone
Fax
Email Address specialinvestigations@doccs.ny.gov
Address
Street NYS Dept. of Corrections and Community Supervision
The Harriman State Campus - 1220 Washington Avenue, Building 4
City Albany
State NY
Zip Code 12226
Notes on Applying Interested qualified individuals should apply to OSI by submitting a resume and cover letter by either email ( specialinvestigations@doccs.ny.gov ) or US Mail, addressed to:
New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision
Office of Special Investigations (Attn: Recruitment & Hiring)
1220 Washington Ave., Building 4
Albany, NY 12226-2050