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Undercover Law Enforcement Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The State of Arizona

SPECIAL AGENT

Phoenix, AZ

$78K/yr

Through proper case management and law enforcement procedures, cases will be documented and evidence will be obtained for criminal and/or administrative violations. Agents will work in an undercover ...

Arizona State Hospital

Job Page

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$78K/yr

Through proper case management and law enforcement procedures, cases will be documented and evidence will be obtained for criminal and/or administrative violations. Agents will work in an undercover ...

ptoiad

Law Enforcement - Police Officer

Tacoma, WA

$46.05/hr

Law Enforcement Hours: 40 Hours/Week - Full Time Salary: Entry Level: $43.44/hour + Benefits ... in undercover investigations of narcotics, gambling, vice and other activities, violations and ...

ptoiad

Law Enforcement - Police Officer

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$46.05/hr

Law Enforcement Hours: 40 Hours/Week - Full Time Salary: Entry Level: $43.44/hour + Benefits ... in undercover investigations of narcotics, gambling, vice and other activities, violations and ...

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How much do undercover law enforcement jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for undercover law enforcement in the United States is $26.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $30.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is undercover law enforcement?

Undercover law enforcement refers to police officers or agents who assume false identities and integrate themselves into criminal organizations or specific environments to gather evidence and intelligence without revealing their true identity. These officers often work on cases involving drugs, organized crime, terrorism, or other serious offenses. The goal is to collect information that would be difficult or impossible to obtain through regular investigative methods. Undercover work requires extensive training, careful planning, and strong support systems to ensure the safety of the officers and the integrity of the investigation.

What are some common challenges faced by undercover law enforcement officers, and how are they supported in managing these challenges?

Undercover law enforcement officers often face unique challenges such as maintaining a convincing cover identity, dealing with the psychological stress of long-term assignments, and managing limited contact with friends and family. Agencies typically provide specialized training, ongoing psychological support, and regular debriefings to ensure officer well-being. Teamwork and clear communication with supervisors and support units are essential, as these networks help officers navigate complex situations and mitigate risks inherent in undercover work.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an undercover law enforcement officer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Undercover Law Enforcement Officer, you need a strong background in criminal justice, investigative techniques, and law enforcement training, often supported by police academy graduation and relevant field experience. Familiarity with surveillance technology, evidence collection tools, and secure communication systems is typically required. Exceptional interpersonal skills, adaptability, and emotional intelligence are crucial for building trust and maintaining cover in high-risk situations. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure operational safety, effective intelligence gathering, and successful case outcomes.

What is the difference between Undercover Law Enforcement vs Undercover Private Investigator?

AspectUndercover Law EnforcementUndercover Private Investigator
CredentialsLaw enforcement training, police academy certificationPrivate investigator license, sometimes background in law enforcement or security
Work EnvironmentPolice stations, crime scenes, public settingsPrivate offices, client sites, public spaces
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, police departmentsPrivate investigation firms, corporate clients
Search & UsageUndercover law enforcement vs private investigator rolesComparing law enforcement and private investigation work

Undercover law enforcement officers are trained police personnel working within government agencies to investigate crimes, often requiring police academy certification. Undercover private investigators operate independently or within firms, focusing on civil cases or background checks, usually holding a private investigator license. While both roles involve undercover work, law enforcement officers have official authority and work within the criminal justice system, whereas private investigators serve private clients in civil matters.

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What cities are hiring for Undercover Law Enforcement jobs?

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What states have the most Undercover Law Enforcement jobs?

States with the most job openings for Undercover Law Enforcement jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Undercover Law Enforcement jobs look for?

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Undercover Law Enforcement jobs near you
Infographic showing various Undercover Law Enforcement 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, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,189 per year, or $26.5 per hour.

Undercover Investigator

DATA QUEST INVESTIGATIONS LTD

Beverly, MA • On-site

$32/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Corporate private investigations agency seeks contract Private Investigator to work undercover at a North Shore assignment in warehouse & distribution. Full-time Tuesday-Friday. No weekends. Ideal opportunity for Criminal Justice students/graduates and/or individuals seeking investigative experience in pursuit of a career in law enforcement. 
Competitive candidates are self-motivated, able to write well, and think quickly on their feet. The position is physical and involves lifting, lowering, and carrying products in a fast-paced environment.
Minimum Requirements include:
•Eligible to work in the U.S.
•High School Diploma/GED.
•Warehouse/Distribution experience and/or investigative experience preferred.
•Must possess a valid driver’s license and have access to reliable transportation.
•Must pass a background check including clear drug screening, criminal and motor vehicle record.
Submit a cover letter and resume for consideration.      
Data Quest logo

About Data Quest

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Data Quest, Ltd. is a licensed, bonded & insured, corporate private investigations agency. It provides elite intelligence gathering, loss prevention & loss detection expertise to companies, attorneys and individuals throughout the United States.

Industry

Investigation and physical security services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

New Bedford, MA, US

Year founded

1981

Social media

Facebook

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