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Surveillance Operative Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SGS Consulting

Video Surveillance Operator

Las Vegas, NV · On-site

$16 - $20.25/hr

Our client is seeking dependable, detail-oriented Surveillance Operators to join their Operations Center in Las Vegas. This is a fully onsite, desk-based monitoring role responsible for observing ...

Kewadin Casinos

Surveillance Operator

Sault Sainte Marie, MI · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

The Surveillance Operator, under the direction of the Surveillance Manager, is responsible for monitoring the Kewadin Casino property using a digital surveillance system. The position is responsible ...

Argosy Casino Alton

Surveillance Operator

Alton, IL · On-site

$16 - $20.25/hr

While working as a Technician, the Surveillance Operator has the following additional duties: Repairs and cleans video recording equipment as needed. * Repairs and maintains all cameras, PTZ and ...

Golden Nugget

Surveillance Operator

Stateline, NV · On-site

$17.75 - $22.25/hr

Overview The Surveillance Operator monitors all gaming areas to ensure compliance with GCB regulations and all internal policies and procedures. This position must also exhibit a high level of ...

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How much do surveillance operative jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for surveillance operative in the United States is $21.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $23.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a surveillance operative?

Surveillance Operatives are professionals trained to observe, monitor, and gather information discreetly, often for private investigation firms, security companies, or law enforcement agencies. Their primary responsibilities include tracking subjects, documenting activities, and collecting evidence—usually without being detected. They may conduct surveillance in person, use video or photographic equipment, and occasionally employ GPS tracking or other technology. Surveillance Operatives play a crucial role in cases such as insurance fraud investigations, corporate espionage, and legal matters.

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

To thrive as a Surveillance Operative, you need keen observational skills, attention to detail, discretion, and typically a background in security or law enforcement. Familiarity with CCTV systems, audio/video recording equipment, and sometimes relevant certifications such as an SIA (Security Industry Authority) license are important. Strong soft skills like critical thinking, patience, and clear communication help operatives adapt to dynamic situations and work effectively in teams. These abilities ensure thorough, lawful, and effective surveillance operations, often in high-stakes or confidential environments.

What are some common challenges surveillance operatives face during covert operations, and how can they overcome them?

Surveillance Operatives often encounter challenges such as maintaining discretion in unpredictable environments, managing long and irregular hours, and adapting quickly to changing circumstances. Remaining unnoticed while gathering accurate information requires strong situational awareness and the ability to blend in seamlessly. To overcome these challenges, operatives typically undergo extensive training in observation, communication, and adaptability, and often work closely with a team to support each other during demanding assignments.

Is surveillance operative work stressful?

Surveillance operative work can be stressful due to the need for constant focus, attention to detail, and the potential for high-pressure situations. The job often requires working long hours, sometimes in isolated environments, and maintaining alertness over extended periods, which can contribute to stress levels.
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Surveillance Operative jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surveillance Operative job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,678 per year, or $21 per hour.

Surveillance Operator

Churchill Downs Incorporated

New Kent, VA • On-site

$19/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Colonial Downs Group (CDG) is owned and operated by Churchill Downs Incorporated and consists of several different brands across Virginia: Colonial Downs Racetrack, Rosie's Gaming Emporium, Rosie's Game Room, Virginia Horseplay, Roseshire Gaming Parlor and The Rose Gaming Resort. CDG is an inclusive and fun place to work. We celebrate unique approaches and points of view. We believe diversity is a mindset that drives excellence. We're always learning, evolving, and growing. We innovate through mutual respect of ideas and collaboration. This allows us to build a common language that inspires our team members and propels us toward the achievement of our vision.
JOB SUMMARY
The Surveillance Operator observes all areas of the property and surrounding areas for suspicious behavior using video cameras, computer screens, monitors, digital recorders, access control systems, computer dispatch, video printers, switches, selectors, and direct observation to ensure compliance with all laws, regulations, policies, and procedures. This position is in New Kent and requires that team members be able to work nights, holidays and weekends.
Compensation: $19 per hour
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Utilizes surveillance equipment to observe, report, and record procedural violations and activities that may be unusual, suspicious, or illegal by guests and Team Members.
  • Operates surveillance equipment and software systems, including CCTV cameras, digital video recorders, and monitors to maintain situational awareness, reporting concerning activity to appropriate personnel.
  • Monitors all company assets, including but not limited to gaming and cage activity, food and beverage, and security of the facility as well as property Team Members and guests for procedural violations.
  • Detects and reports incidents of cheating, theft, fraud, or other security breaches to the appropriate personnel for all areas of the property, both indoor and outdoor.
  • Video tape questionable activities and make written reports to appropriate personnel.
  • Dispatches security officers as needed throughout the facility to monitor conduct.
  • Determines control call priorities and dispatches security, police, fire, traffic officers, maintenance, and facilities during emergencies as necessary.
  • Check for blind spots and camera outage or tampering.
  • Understand and operate all Surveillance camera switching reprogramming equipment, and use of all computer equipment.
  • Maintains cleanliness of workstations and equipment.
  • Develops detailed and accurate logs or reports observed by surveillance and inputs into the surveillance dispatch log.
  • Adheres to all gaming policies, procedures, and regulatory guidelines regarding surveillance operations to ensure confidentiality and ethical conduct.
  • Maintains knowledge of gaming laws, regulations, and company policies to ensure adherence to all safety protocols and procedures.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND ABILITIES
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including ability to manage crowds effectively.
  • Excellent attention to detail and observational skills in analyzing video footage.
  • Proficiency in computer skills, including knowledge of video surveillance software, database management, and basic networking concepts.
  • Ability to multitask and respond to telephone and radio traffic.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Vocational or technical certifications in related field.
  • One year of experience in surveillance, security, loss prevention or related field.
  • A combination of education and experience may be considered.
  • Must obtain valid Virginia Racing Commission License.
  • Valid Driver's License.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS & WORKING CONDITIONS
  • The Team Member will be required to sit and remain stationary for extended periods of time.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the Team Member is frequently required to sit or stand; walk; use hands to finger reach, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and talk or hear.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
  • The Team Member may be required to lift up to 50 pounds.
  • The Team Member may be required to work long hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
  • The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to loud.
  • The work environment may vary in levels of crowds, noise, and smoke, depending on the assigned station and customer volume.
  • The work environment may consist of a dark area viewing video monitors for entire shift

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by a Team Member to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Colonial Downs Group is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We encourage qualified individuals from all backgrounds to apply. If you are passionate about marketing and thrive in a fast-paced environment, we want to hear from you!
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or disability.
Work With Us
Churchill Downs Incorporated is an inclusive and fun place to work. We celebrate unique approaches and points of view. We believe diversity is a mindset that drives excellence. We're always learning, evolving and growing. We innovate through mutual respect of ideas and collaboration. This allows us to build a common language that inspires our team members and propels us toward the achievement of our vision.
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