How much does a Surveillance Investigator make?
A Surveillance Investigator works to gather information and evidence. They often use cameras and other tools. This job can pay a fair amount. On average, a Surveillance Investigator makes $44,158 each year. This number can change based on experience, location, and the company.
Here are some other salary points for this role:
- One in ten make around $32,906 a year.
- Some earn between $35,824 and $38,741.
- About 14% make between $38,741 and $41,659.
- Another 11% earn between $41,659 and $44,576.
- More than half of these workers make between $44,576 and $56,247 each year.
- A few top earners make over $56,247.
What are the highest paying cities for a Surveillance Investigator?

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Lubbock, TX
Average Salary: $57,393
In Lubbock, a surveillance expert can expect to work with various businesses and government agencies. The city's growing economy and business sector offer diverse opportunities to monitor and ensure safety.
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Hartford, CT
Average Salary: $54,602
Working in Hartford involves handling surveillance for insurance companies and financial institutions. The city's insurance industry, also known as the 'Insurance Capital of the World', offers numerous roles in surveillance.
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Memphis, TN
Average Salary: $53,655
Memphis provides a range of opportunities for surveillance professionals. The city's logistics and transportation hubs require monitoring to ensure the safety and efficiency of operations.
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Knoxville, TN
Average Salary: $53,064
Knoxville offers a mix of roles in surveillance, especially with the presence of educational institutions and healthcare facilities. These sectors need experts to protect their environments.
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Buffalo, NY
Average Salary: $52,786
Buffalo's surveillance scene is vibrant, with opportunities in manufacturing and finance. The city's focus on these industries means a steady demand for surveillance experts.
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Clarksville, TN
Average Salary: $52,059
Clarksville provides a quieter, yet rewarding, environment for surveillance roles. With a focus on education and military presence, the city offers stability and growth in surveillance work.
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Tallahassee, FL
Average Salary: $51,536
Tallahassee, as the state capital, offers a unique blend of government and private sector opportunities in surveillance. The city’s political landscape and educational institutions demand robust monitoring solutions.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $51,248
Sacramento’s diverse economy presents a variety of surveillance opportunities. From government agencies to tech startups, the city offers a dynamic work environment for surveillance professionals.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $51,091
Working in Washington, DC, means engaging in high-stakes surveillance work. The city's political environment and numerous federal agencies create a need for skilled surveillance experts.
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Des Moines, IA
Average Salary: $51,068
Des Moines offers a stable environment for surveillance roles, with opportunities in finance and insurance. The city’s focus on these sectors ensures a steady demand for monitoring expertise.
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What are the best companies a Surveillance Investigator can work for?

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Department Of Family And Protective Services
Average Salary: $63,787
The Department Of Family And Protective Services offers Surveillance Investigator positions that involve monitoring and protecting individuals and families. These positions are available in various locations across the state. This role allows professionals to make a meaningful impact in their communities.
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Alpine Intel
Average Salary: $60,333
Alpine Intel provides Surveillance Investigator jobs with an emphasis on intelligence gathering. They operate in multiple regions, offering opportunities to work on diverse cases. This company values skilled investigators who can work independently and as part of a team.
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The Robison Group
Average Salary: $54,011
The Robison Group hires Surveillance Investigators who conduct thorough investigations. They work in key cities nationwide, focusing on private investigations for businesses and individuals. Their work requires attention to detail and strong analytical skills.
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VRC Investigations
Average Salary: $53,437
VRC Investigations offers Surveillance Investigator roles across major urban centers. These positions involve investigating insurance fraud, missing persons, and other complex cases. This company values professionals who are dedicated to solving tough cases.
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Metro One LPSG
Average Salary: $53,385
Metro One LPSG provides Surveillance Investigator jobs in several states. They focus on corporate investigations, background checks, and security services. This role requires strong investigative skills and the ability to work under pressure.
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Lemieux & Associates
Average Salary: $52,459
Lemieux & Associates hires Surveillance Investigators for private investigations and security services. They operate in key metropolitan areas, providing opportunities for professionals who are passionate about investigative work.
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Meridian Investigative Group, Inc
Average Salary: $51,733
Meridian Investigative Group, Inc offers Surveillance Investigator jobs in several states. Their work includes corporate investigations and security services. They value investigators who are reliable and have a strong work ethic.
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Delta Group
Average Salary: $50,000
The Delta Group provides Surveillance Investigator roles in various cities across the country. They specialize in private investigations and corporate security. This role is ideal for those who enjoy working on diverse cases.
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Delta Associated Investigations
Average Salary: $50,000
Delta Associated Investigations hires Surveillance Investigators in multiple states. They focus on corporate investigations and security. This position requires individuals who can work independently and as part of a team.
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Photofax, Inc
Average Salary: $49,811
Photofax, Inc offers Surveillance Investigator positions in key cities nationwide. They provide investigative services for businesses and individuals. This role involves conducting detailed investigations and reporting findings accurately.
How to earn more as a Surveillance Investigator?
In the field of surveillance, increasing your earnings often depends on a combination of skills, experience, and certifications. Continuous learning and development play a crucial role in advancing in this career path. Professionals who invest time in acquiring additional skills or certifications often find better-paying opportunities. These skills may include advanced video analysis, understanding of legal standards, or proficiency in specific software used in surveillance. Certifications from recognized organizations can add credibility and open doors to higher-paying roles.
Building a strong professional network also proves essential. Connections with other professionals in the industry can lead to job opportunities that are not publicly advertised. Networking at industry conferences, joining professional associations, and participating in online forums can help maintain these connections. Engaging with peers and sharing experiences can also lead to insights about better-paying jobs and industry trends. Additionally, gaining experience in high-demand areas such as cybersecurity or corporate surveillance can significantly enhance earning potential.
The following factors can help a Surveillance Investigator earn more:
- Continuous learning and skill development
- Acquiring certifications from recognized organizations
- Building and maintaining a professional network
- Gaining experience in high-demand areas
- Seeking opportunities in specialized surveillance roles



