How much does a Surveillance Investigator make?
A Surveillance Investigator plays a key role in ensuring safety and security. This role involves monitoring and recording activities, often using cameras and other tools. The average yearly salary for a Surveillance Investigator is around $45,085. This salary can vary based on experience and location.
The salary range for Surveillance Investigators can be quite broad. The lowest 10% earn less than $34,000 a year. The top 10% earn more than $69,000 annually. Most positions fall between $40,000 and $50,000. This range shows that with more experience and skills, earnings can increase. Job seekers should consider these factors when looking for opportunities in this field.
What are the highest paying cities for a Surveillance Investigator?

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Waco, TX
Average Salary: $56,131
In Waco, professionals can find rewarding work with companies like Baylor Scott & White Health. The city offers a mix of urban and small-town charm, making it a great place to work and live. The role here involves monitoring and analyzing activities to ensure safety and compliance.
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Lubbock, TX
Average Salary: $55,984
Lubbock offers a dynamic environment for those in this field. With institutions like Texas Tech University, there are ample opportunities to grow. The job involves detailed observation and reporting, contributing to the community's security.
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Hartford, CT
Average Salary: $54,394
Hartford provides a rich backdrop for this career. The city is home to major insurance companies like The Hartford. Working here means you'll be part of a well-established industry, focusing on risk assessment and fraud prevention.
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Memphis, TN
Average Salary: $53,701
Memphis offers a vibrant setting for surveillance work. The city's diverse economy includes companies like FedEx. Professionals here will engage in thorough investigations, ensuring the safety and efficiency of operations.
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Topeka, KS
Average Salary: $52,380
Topeka provides a stable environment for this career. The city is known for its government presence, offering numerous opportunities. The role involves meticulous monitoring and reporting, contributing to public safety.
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Buffalo, NY
Average Salary: $50,481
Buffalo offers a unique blend of urban and natural beauty. The city is home to companies like M&T Bank. Working here means you'll be part of a dynamic team, focusing on security and risk management.
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Shreveport, LA
Average Salary: $50,167
Shreveport provides a lively atmosphere for surveillance work. The city's diverse economy includes companies like Caddo Parish. The job involves detailed observation and analysis, ensuring safety and compliance.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $50,161
Minneapolis offers a vibrant setting for this career. The city is known for its tech and finance sectors, including companies like Target. The role involves thorough investigations, contributing to the community's security.
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Modesto, CA
Average Salary: $49,930
Modesto provides a welcoming environment for surveillance work. The city's agricultural roots offer a unique backdrop. The job involves meticulous monitoring and reporting, ensuring the safety of operations.
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Nashville, TN
Average Salary: $49,765
Nashville offers a dynamic setting for this career. The city is known for its music and entertainment industry. Working here means you'll be part of a vibrant team, focusing on security and risk assessment.
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What are the best companies a Surveillance Investigator can work for?

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State of Tennessee
Average Salary: $84,613
State of Tennessee offers Surveillance Investigator jobs with a focus on public safety and security. Positions are available in various locations across the state, including Nashville, Memphis, and Knoxville.
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Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
Average Salary: $69,685
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania provides Surveillance Investigator roles with a strong emphasis on law enforcement and public protection. Opportunities exist in cities like Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Harrisburg.
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State of Arizona
Average Salary: $65,466
The State of Arizona offers Surveillance Investigator jobs that focus on security and surveillance in key areas. Positions are available in Phoenix, Tucson, and other major cities.
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Texas Health and Human Services Commission
Average Salary: $62,070
The Texas Health and Human Services Commission provides Surveillance Investigator roles with a focus on healthcare security. Opportunities are available in cities like Austin, Houston, and Dallas.
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Alpine Intel
Average Salary: $60,190
Alpine Intel offers Surveillance Investigator jobs with a focus on private security and intelligence. Positions are available in various locations, including major cities.
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The Robison Group
Average Salary: $56,138
The Robison Group provides Surveillance Investigator roles with a focus on security and surveillance. Opportunities are available in cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego.
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Delta Group
Average Salary: $54,415
Delta Group offers Surveillance Investigator jobs with a focus on security and surveillance. Positions are available in various locations, including major cities.
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Metro One LPSG
Average Salary: $53,600
Metro One LPSG provides Surveillance Investigator roles with a focus on security and surveillance. Opportunities are available in cities like New York, Chicago, and Miami.
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CoventBridge Group
Average Salary: $52,887
CoventBridge Group offers Surveillance Investigator jobs with a focus on security and surveillance. Positions are available in various locations, including major cities.
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Food 4 Less
Average Salary: $52,519
Food 4 Less provides Surveillance Investigator roles with a focus on retail security. Opportunities are available in various locations, including major cities.
How to earn more as a Surveillance Investigator?
A Surveillance Investigator can increase their earnings by focusing on several key factors. Gaining experience in the field is crucial. More experienced investigators often have a better understanding of the job and can handle complex cases more effectively. This experience can lead to higher-paying positions and more opportunities for advancement.
Another important factor is obtaining additional certifications. Certifications in areas such as video analysis, legal procedures, and advanced surveillance techniques can make an investigator more valuable to employers. These skills can open doors to higher-paying jobs and specialized roles. Networking with other professionals in the industry can also lead to better job opportunities and higher salaries. Attending industry conferences and joining professional organizations can help build these connections. Continuing education and staying updated on the latest trends and technologies can also improve an investigator's marketability and earning potential.
Investigators who take on leadership roles or specialize in high-demand areas can also earn more. Supervisory positions and roles in areas such as cybercrime or corporate investigations often come with higher pay. Finally, working for larger firms or government agencies can provide more stable and higher-paying job opportunities. These organizations often have more resources and can offer better compensation packages.
Here are five key factors to consider:
- Gain experience in the field
- Obtain additional certifications
- Network with other professionals
- Take on leadership roles or specialize
- Work for larger firms or government agencies