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Surveillance Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

The Surveillance Investigator will perform discreet mobile and stationary surveillance of a Claimant to confirm current activities and capabilities to assist with the administration of an insurance ...

Surveillance Investigator Job Location : Alexandria/VA 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 ...

Surveillance Investigator Job Location : Alexandria/VA 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 ...

The Surveillance Investigator will perform discreet mobile and stationary surveillance of a Claimant to confirm current activities and capabilities to assist with the administration of an insurance ...

Surveillance Investigator Job Location : Alexandria/VA 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 ...

Surveillance Investigator

Richmond, VA · On-site

$21.25 - $26.25/hr

The surveillance investigator position is a field based, hourly, and non-exempt position. This position requires daily travel within the designated city/territory in the advertised city and state.

The Surveillance Investigator will perform discreet mobile and stationary surveillance of a Claimant to confirm current activities and capabilities to assist with the administration of an insurance ...

Showing results 21-40

Surveillance Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$11

$17

$22

How much do surveillance operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for surveillance operator in Virginia is $17.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.96 and $20.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a surveillance operator?

Surveillance operators are professionals responsible for monitoring activity within establishments, such as casinos, retail stores, or security firms, using video and audio equipment. Their main job is to detect suspicious behavior, prevent theft or fraud, and ensure the safety of people and assets. They work in secure rooms, observing live camera feeds and recording incidents for further review. Surveillance operators may also coordinate with security personnel or law enforcement if they observe illegal or dangerous activities.

What are the responsibilities of a surveillance operator?

The responsibilities of a surveillance operator are to monitor the security video system at a casino or hotel casino, observe the movements and activities of the employees and patrons, and protect the establishment’s property. Whenever you observe issues, you direct security personnel, such as the pit boss, to intervene. Your main duties are to make sure there is not cheating or theft occurring at the gaming tables, either by gamers or the dealers, but you are also responsible for monitoring other problems, such as disorderly conduct.

What are some typical challenges faced by a surveillance operator in maintaining effective vigilance during long shifts?

Surveillance Operators often work extended shifts, which can make staying alert and focused a challenge, especially during quieter periods. To maintain vigilance, operators use rotation schedules, regular breaks, and ergonomic equipment to reduce fatigue. Adapting to rapidly changing situations and distinguishing between normal and suspicious activities also requires strong attention to detail and continuous training. Working collaboratively with security teams and management helps ensure that any potential threats are promptly identified and addressed.

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

To thrive as a Surveillance Operator, you need keen observational skills, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with some employers preferring experience in security or law enforcement. Familiarity with closed-circuit television (CCTV) systems, video monitoring software, and incident reporting tools is typically required. Strong ethical judgment, discretion, and the ability to communicate clearly are vital soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring the safety and security of people and property by effectively detecting and responding to suspicious activities.

What is the difference between Surveillance Operator vs Security Guard?

AspectSurveillance OperatorSecurity Guard
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, CCTV operation training, security certificationsHigh school diploma, security guard license
Work EnvironmentMonitoring security cameras, surveillance roomsPatrolling premises, physical presence on-site
Employer & Industry UsageSecurity firms, retail, corporate facilitiesCommercial, residential, retail, industrial sites
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

While both Surveillance Operators and Security Guards focus on safety, Surveillance Operators primarily monitor security footage and detect suspicious activity remotely, whereas Security Guards provide physical security through patrols and on-site presence. The roles often overlap in security settings, but their core responsibilities and work environments differ.

What job categories do people searching Surveillance Operator jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Surveillance Operator jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Surveillance Operator jobs in VA?

For Surveillance Operator jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Surveillance Operator job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,962 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Surveillance Role Player I

Chenega Corporation

Arlington, VA • On-site

$20/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Summary

This is a role that remains open, if you go through the selection process and are selected you will recieve an official offer letter when a training date becomes available. 

Come join a company that strives for Extraordinary People and Exceptional Performance! EKS a Chenega Professional Services’ company, is looking for a Part-Time Surveillance Role Player I. The Surveillance Role Player I will operate as a member of a surveillance role playing team conducting static, foot, vehicle and/or multi-mode surveillance of training personnel in urban and rural environments and under all weather conditions.

Our company offers employees the opportunity to join a team where there is a robust employee benefits program, management engagement, quality leadership, an atmosphere of teamwork, recognition for performance, and promotion opportunities. We actively strive to channel our highly engaged employee’s knowledge, critical thinking, and innovative solutions for our clients.


Responsibilities
  • Perform foot surveillance up to ten miles per run; up to three runs per day 
  • Perform vehicle surveillance up to three hours per run 
  • Fully understand and adhere to EKS surveillance techniques and procedures 
  • Provide surveillance roleplaying in direct support of client training 
  • Record and maintain appropriate vehicle and surveillance logs in accordance with EKS techniques and procedures 
  • Other duties as assigned

Qualifications
  • Generally, physically fit with the ability to walk up to 10 miles per day for up to 12 consecutive days; and the ability to drive or ride in a vehicle for up to 12 hours per day. 
  • Successful completion of a Basic Surveillance Operations Course. 
  • Maintain a valid driver’s license, current auto insurance, and a 36-month clean driving record. 
  • Ability to read, write, and speak English fluently. 
  • Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists. 
  • Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram or schedule form.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

  • Effectively work alone or interact with team members, across other teams, and leadership 
  • Adapt to changing work environments, deal with frequent changes, and diverse team members.
  • Experience in operating communication devices such as cell phones, walkie-talkie type radios, GPS devices, and surveillance photo/video equipment.
  • Listen actively; speak clearly.
  • Determine cardinal directions both static and dynamic with keen map reading, navigational and observational skills.

Physical Demands: (The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.)

  • Frequently required to sit  
  • Frequently required to walk  
  • Occasionally required to stand 
  • Occasionally required to reach with hands and arms 
  • Continually required to talk or hear 
  • Occasionally required to lift light weights (less than 60 pounds)  
  • Specific vision abilities required for this job include: close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust or focus
  • While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is regularly required to sit and talk or hear. The employee may use repeated motions that include the arms, wrists, hands and/or fingers. The employee is occasionally required to walk, stand, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision.

Work Environment: (The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.)

  • Exposure to extremely hot conditions (over 100 degrees) 
  • Exposure to cold conditions (below 32 degrees) 
  • Exposure to wet and/or humid conditions 
  • Required to perform in both rural and urban environments  
  • The noise level in the work environment usually is moderate 

Estimated Salary/Wage
USD $18.00/Hr. Up to USD $20.00/Hr.Qualifications:
  • Generally, physically fit with the ability to walk up to 10 miles per day for up to 12 consecutive days; and the ability to drive or ride in a vehicle for up to 12 hours per day. 
  • Successful completion of a Basic Surveillance Operations Course. 
  • Maintain a valid driver’s license, current auto insurance, and a 36-month clean driving record. 
  • Ability to read, write, and speak English fluently. 
  • Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists. 
  • Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram or schedule form.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

  • Effectively work alone or interact with team members, across other teams, and leadership 
  • Adapt to changing work environments, deal with frequent changes, and diverse team members.
  • Experience in operating communication devices such as cell phones, walkie-talkie type radios, GPS devices, and surveillance photo/video equipment.
  • Listen actively; speak clearly.
  • Determine cardinal directions both static and dynamic with keen map reading, navigational and observational skills.

Physical Demands: (The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.)

  • Frequently required to sit  
  • Frequently required to walk  
  • Occasionally required to stand 
  • Occasionally required to reach with hands and arms 
  • Continually required to talk or hear 
  • Occasionally required to lift light weights (less than 60 pounds)  
  • Specific vision abilities required for this job include: close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust or focus
  • While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is regularly required to sit and talk or hear. The employee may use repeated motions that include the arms, wrists, hands and/or fingers. The employee is occasionally required to walk, stand, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision.

Work Environment: (The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.)

  • Exposure to extremely hot conditions (over 100 degrees) 
  • Exposure to cold conditions (below 32 degrees) 
  • Exposure to wet and/or humid conditions 
  • Required to perform in both rural and urban environments  
  • The noise level in the work environment usually is moderate 
Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: PART_TIME