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Private Detective or Investigator

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What You Need to Know About Private Detective or Investigator

Example of Private Detective or Investigator Job Gather, analyze, compile and report information regarding individuals or organizations to clients, or detect occurrences of unlawful acts or infractions of rules in private establishment.

Private Detective or Investigator Responsibilities

  • Monitor industrial or commercial properties to enforce conformance to establishment rules and to protect people or property.
  • Investigate companies' financial standings or locate funds stolen by embezzlers, using accounting skills.
  • Alert appropriate personnel to suspects' locations.
  • Testify at hearings or court trials to present evidence.
  • Write reports or case summaries to document investigations.
  • Conduct personal background investigations, such as pre-employment checks, to obtain information about an individual’s character, financial status, or personal history.

What Every Private Detective or Investigator Should Know

Private Detectives and Investigators state the following job skills are important in their day-to-day work.

Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

Speaking: Talking to others to convey information effectively.

Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.

Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.

Complex Problem Solving: Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.

Writing: Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.

Types of Private Detective or Investigator Jobs

  • Investigator
  • Loss Prevention Investigator
  • Cash Shortage Investigator
  • Skip Tracer
  • Asset Protection Detective

Is There Job Demand for Private Detectives and Investigators?

There were about 41,400 jobs for Private Detective or Investigator in 2016 (in the United States). New jobs are being produced at a rate of 10.6% which is above the national average. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 4,400 new jobs for Private Detective or Investigator by 2026. The BLS estimates 4,500 yearly job openings in this field.

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The states with the most job growth for Private Detective or Investigator are Utah, Tennessee, and Iowa. Watch out if you plan on working in Nebraska, Montana, or Kansas. These states have the worst job growth for this type of profession.

How Much Does a Private Detective or Investigator Make?

The salary for Private Detectives and Investigators ranges between about $29,310 and $89,200 a year.

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Private Detectives and Investigators who work in Nevada, District of Columbia, or Alaska, make the highest salaries.

How much do Private Detectives and Investigators make in each U.S. state?

State Annual Mean Salary
Alabama $54,200
Alaska $69,210
Arizona $53,680
Arkansas $47,090
California $67,970
Colorado $53,860
Connecticut $53,410
Delaware $49,250
District of Columbia $72,190
Florida $41,850
Georgia $49,360
Idaho $57,420
Illinois $60,630
Indiana $48,250
Kansas $52,090
Kentucky $46,940
Louisiana $47,070
Maryland $58,520
Massachusetts $49,290
Michigan $52,010
Mississippi $46,890
Missouri $56,700
Montana $49,090
Nevada $64,080
New Hampshire $52,810
New Jersey $64,250
New Mexico $55,360
New York $61,950
North Carolina $53,050
Ohio $43,060
Oklahoma $42,820
Oregon $55,240
Pennsylvania $45,950
Rhode Island $55,290
South Carolina $50,150
South Dakota $39,040
Texas $49,250
Utah $46,310
Virginia $66,590
Washington $61,210
West Virginia $42,290
Wisconsin $43,790

What Tools do Private Detectives and Investigators Use?

Although they’re not necessarily needed for all jobs, the following technologies are used by many Private Detectives and Investigators:

  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Word
  • Microsoft Office
  • Microsoft PowerPoint
  • Microsoft Outlook
  • Web browser software
  • Data entry software
  • Email software
  • LexisNexis
  • Computer imaging software

How do I Become a Private Detective or Investigator?

Individuals working as a Private Detective or Investigator have obtained the following education levels:

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How many years of work experience do I need?

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Where do Private Detectives and Investigators Work?

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Private Detectives and Investigators work in the following industries:

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References:

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More about our data sources and methodologies.

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