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Surveillance Officer / Investigator

Quick Facts

Median Salary$48,628
Most Common EducationHigh school or GED
Projected 10-Year Growth-3.86%
Assessment MatchTake the Assessment

What They Do

A Surveillance Officer or Investigator uses surveillance tools and techniques to investigate a case for a private client. May follow an individual or watch a home or office site and use cameras, binoculars or GPS technology for surveillance


Core Tasks:

  • Write reports or case summaries to document investigations.
  • Conduct private investigations on a paid basis.
  • Search computer databases, credit reports, public records, tax or legal filings, or other resources to locate persons or to compile information for investigations.
  • Conduct personal background investigations, such as pre-employment checks, to obtain information about an individual's character, financial status, or personal history.
  • Expose fraudulent insurance claims or stolen funds.
  • Obtain and analyze information on suspects, crimes, or disturbances to solve cases, to identify criminal activity, or to gather information for court cases.
  • Testify at hearings or court trials to present evidence.
  • Question persons to obtain evidence for cases of divorce, child custody, or missing persons or information about individuals' character or financial status.
  • Observe and document activities of individuals to detect unlawful acts or to obtain evidence for cases, using binoculars and still or video cameras.
  • Confer with establishment officials, security departments, police, or postal officials to identify problems, provide information, or receive instructions.

What to expect as a Surveillance Officer / Investigator

1Earn a High school or GED Diploma

53% of people achieve this level of education.

2Gain skills and experience

See Surveillance Officer / Investigator related courses on Tallo

3Land a job

2316 openings for Surveillance Officers / Investigators

Career Progression

in United States (Nation)

The career progression is an interactive way to explore careers related to Surveillance Officer / Investigator. Click on each career to see its associated salary, job availability, skills, and more.