ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Surveillance Investigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsLegal JobsInvestigator JobsSurveillance Investigator Jobs

Surveillance Investigator information

See salary details

$15

$23

$29

How much do surveillance investigator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for surveillance investigator in the United States is $23.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $25.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a surveillance investigator?

A Surveillance Investigator is a professional who observes and monitors individuals or locations to gather information, often for legal, insurance, or corporate cases. They use various techniques, such as video recording, photography, and written reports, to document activities and behaviors. Surveillance Investigators often work for private investigation firms, insurance companies, or law enforcement agencies. Their work helps uncover fraud, verify claims, or provide evidence for court cases.

What does a surveillance investigator do?

A surveillance investigator gathers information about a person, or subject, at the center of an investigation. Surveillance investigators may work as a company employee or contractor and often use wiretaps, concealed cameras, and other surveillance tools to complete investigations. Common responsibilities in this role include conducting video surveillance, performing background checks, researching fraudulent activity, drafting reports about findings, and uploading evidence into a data management database.

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

To thrive as a Surveillance Investigator, you need strong observational skills, attention to detail, and typically a background in criminal justice or related field. Familiarity with surveillance technology, video recording equipment, and report-writing software is essential, and some roles may require a private investigator license. Discretion, patience, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for building trust and maintaining confidentiality during investigations. These abilities ensure accurate evidence collection, legal compliance, and the integrity of investigative work.

What are some common challenges faced by surveillance investigators during fieldwork, and how can they be overcome?

Surveillance Investigators often encounter challenges such as maintaining discretion while observing subjects, adapting to unpredictable situations, and working irregular hours. To overcome these, investigators rely on thorough planning, utilizing advanced surveillance equipment, and staying adaptable to changing environments. Strong attention to detail and effective communication with team members also help in gathering accurate evidence while minimizing the risk of detection. Continuous training and experience are key to refining these skills over time.

What is the difference between Surveillance Investigator vs Private Investigator?

AspectSurveillance InvestigatorPrivate Investigator
CredentialsMay require security or surveillance certifications, sometimes state licensingOften requires private investigator license, background checks, and certifications
Work EnvironmentPrimarily outdoors, conducting surveillance and monitoringVaries; can include surveillance, interviews, background checks, and research
Employer & IndustryInsurance companies, law firms, corporations, government agenciesIndividuals, law firms, corporations, government agencies

Surveillance Investigators focus mainly on conducting surveillance to gather evidence, often working outdoors. Private Investigators have broader roles, including research, interviews, and surveillance, and typically hold private investigator licenses. Both roles serve similar industries but differ in scope and daily tasks.

More about Surveillance Investigator jobs

What cities are hiring for Surveillance Investigator jobs?

Cities with the most Surveillance Investigator job openings:

Who are the top companies hiring for Surveillance Investigator jobs?

The top employers for Surveillance Investigator jobs are:

What states have the most Surveillance Investigator jobs?

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

What job categories do people searching Surveillance Investigator jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Surveillance Investigator jobs are:

What are popular job titles related to Surveillance Investigator jobs?

For Surveillance Investigator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Surveillance Investigator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surveillance Investigator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 90% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,820 per year, or $23.5 per hour.

Surveillance Investigator

Montgomery, AL • On-site

Advantage Surveillance LLC
11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Advantage Surveillance LLCexternal

$20 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

For the past 27 years, Advantage Investigations has been the Nation’s only insurance defense investigation firm that invests in the operational capabilities necessary to produce consistent, high-quality results—ultimately helping our clients "See What’s True." 

With over 200 licensed private investigators Nationwide, Advantage uses strategic planning and technology to give our clients greater clarity on a claimant's daily activities. Providing Covert Surveillance, Claims Investigations, Net-Sweep Investigations, USP and more, we’re able to save our clients time and money on insurance fraud cases.

Advantage Investigations is seeking a Full Time Surveillance Investigator in the Montgomery, AL/Surrounding Areas. The qualified candidate will be responsible for conducting covert surveillance, investigating daily activities, obtaining video evidence, and provide a clear report of all activities for our operations team. As a surveillance investigator you will be provided with a comprehensive training program, door to door pay, vehicle allowance, fuel card, top-of-the-line equipment, as well as other generous benefits. This position requires daily travel within the investigator’s area/territory.
 
** Current AL Private Investigator License required **
 

Duties & Responsibilities: 

  • Conducting surveillance including covert, stationary, and mobile
  • Conducting surveillance throughout their home state and surrounding states. 
  • Recording subject activity on a video recording device.
  • Preparing and completing a written report of observations
  • Uploading Video Evidence and a surveillance report

 Qualifications & Requirements:

  • Private Investigator License required – Licensing differs between states
  • Current AL Private Investigator License preferred
  • Prior related SIU Claims experience
  • Previous experience related to surveillance is preferred 
  • Access to a suitable surveillance vehicle for day-to-day use 
  • Valid Driver’s License 
  • Ability to provide MVR (driving record)
  • Willingness to travel throughout home state and surrounding states for work
  • Varying weekly work schedule includes weekend and holiday availability
  • Good oral and written communication skills
  • Self-motivated, ability work independently
  • Meet state mandated requirements to obtain and maintain a Private Investigator license multiple states
  • Pass a Drug Screen.

Compensation: Investigators are paid door to door at an hourly rate commensurate with experience within $20.00 to $25.00 an hour.  Employees are paid on a bi-weekly basis.

Company Benefits:

  • Door to Door hourly pay
  • Monthly Vehicle Allowance
  • Monthly Cell Phone Allowance
  • Fuel Card provided
  • Equipment Provided
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, and disability insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • Paid Lodging (when applicable), and per diem pay when out of town
  • 401(k) – with match
  • 2 weeks of PTO (paid time off)
  • Parental Leave

Advantage Investigations is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.


Apply