How much does a Surveillance Investigator make?
Surveillance Investigators work to gather information using video, audio, or other tools. They look for signs of trouble or unusual activity. This can include spying on criminals or gathering information for legal cases. They often need to be detail-oriented and have a good eye for detail.
The salary for a Surveillance Investigator can vary based on experience and location. On average, a Surveillance Investigator makes about $44,583 per year. Starting salaries can be lower, but with more experience, they can earn more. Here are some salary ranges:
- $34,350 - $37,227 for entry-level positions
- $40,105 - $42,982 for mid-level positions
- $45,859 - $48,736 for experienced positions
- $51,614 - $54,491 for senior positions
- $57,368 - $63,123 for top-level positions
What are the highest paying cities for a Surveillance Investigator?

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Lubbock, TX
Average Salary: $54,881
In Lubbock, working as an investigator can lead to roles with local businesses and law enforcement agencies. The city's focus on education and healthcare offers diverse job opportunities. Companies like Lubbock ISD and University Medical Center value skilled investigators.
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Memphis, TN
Average Salary: $54,858
Memphis provides a dynamic environment for investigators, with a mix of local government and private sector jobs. The presence of companies like FedEx and Baptist Memorial Health Care means you can find fulfilling work. The city's vibrant culture adds to the job experience.
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Hartford, CT
Average Salary: $53,844
Hartford offers a chance to work in a city with a strong financial sector. Opportunities in insurance and banking are plentiful. Companies such as Travelers and Aetna provide excellent platforms for career growth. The city's rich history adds to its appeal.
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Modesto, CA
Average Salary: $52,493
Modesto is known for its agricultural roots and growing tech industry. Working here offers a mix of traditional and modern job opportunities. Firms like Stanislaus County and various tech startups are hiring. The city's friendly community makes it a great place to work.
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Buffalo, NY
Average Salary: $52,389
Buffalo provides a mix of roles in healthcare, manufacturing, and finance. The city's economic diversity offers many job options. Companies like Kaleida Health and M&T Bank are prominent employers. Buffalo's rich cultural scene adds to its charm.
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Topeka, KS
Average Salary: $52,380
Topeka offers a stable job market with roles in government and education. The presence of the state capital means work with local agencies is common. Schools and government offices provide steady employment. The city's welcoming atmosphere makes it a nice place to live and work.
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Clarksville, TN
Average Salary: $52,059
Clarksville provides a mix of opportunities in education and healthcare. Fort Campbell and Austin Peay State University are major employers. Working in these sectors offers good job security. The city's community feel adds to the positive work environment.
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Corpus Christi, TX
Average Salary: $51,537
Corpus Christi offers diverse job opportunities in the energy and maritime sectors. The presence of companies like Nueces County and various ports makes it a vibrant place to work. The city's coastal location adds to its appeal, offering a unique work-life balance.
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Des Moines, IA
Average Salary: $51,038
Des Moines offers a mix of roles in insurance and finance. The city's status as the insurance capital of the world means many opportunities. Companies like Principal and Wellmark provide good career paths. The city's walkable downtown and friendly people make it a great place to work.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $50,408
Sacramento offers many opportunities in government and education. The capital city status means many roles with state agencies. Schools and universities provide stable jobs. The city's vibrant arts scene adds to its appeal.
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What are the best companies a Surveillance Investigator can work for?

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State of Tennessee
Average Salary: $85,035
The State of Tennessee offers Surveillance Investigator jobs with a competitive salary. These positions involve working on critical security tasks, ensuring safety and compliance across various locations. The state operates throughout Tennessee, providing diverse opportunities for surveillance investigators.
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Alpine Intel
Average Salary: $60,174
At Alpine Intel, Surveillance Investigators play a key role in security and intelligence. They focus on monitoring and protecting assets and personnel. Alpine Intel operates in multiple states, providing opportunities in different environments.
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The Robison Group
Average Salary: $54,787
The Robison Group offers rewarding careers in surveillance investigation. Investigators at this company work on securing facilities and gathering intelligence. The company operates nationwide, offering diverse roles.
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Metro One LPSG
Average Salary: $54,083
Metro One LPSG provides Surveillance Investigator roles with a focus on private security. Investigators work to ensure safety and security in various settings. The company operates in several locations, providing a range of opportunities.
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Delta Group
Average Salary: $53,794
The Delta Group offers jobs for Surveillance Investigators in security services. They monitor activities and collect evidence for legal purposes. The company operates in multiple regions, offering varied work environments.
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CoventBridge Group
Average Salary: $52,831
CoventBridge Group provides opportunities for Surveillance Investigators to work in critical security roles. They ensure the safety of assets and personnel. The company operates in several locations, offering diverse investigative tasks.
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VRC Investigations
Average Salary: $52,772
VRC Investigations offers Surveillance Investigator positions focused on security and intelligence. Investigators work to protect assets and gather information. The company operates in various regions, providing different job settings.
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Texas Health and Human Services Commission
Average Salary: $51,756
The Texas Health and Human Services Commission offers Surveillance Investigator jobs with a focus on protecting public health. Investigators monitor activities to ensure compliance and safety. The organization operates across Texas, offering diverse opportunities.
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Lemieux & Associates
Average Salary: $50,831
Lemieux & Associates provides Surveillance Investigator roles with a focus on private security. Investigators work to protect assets and gather information. The company operates in several locations, offering varied investigative tasks.
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Meridian Investigative Group, Inc
Average Salary: $50,313
Meridian Investigative Group, Inc. offers Surveillance Investigator jobs focused on security and intelligence. Investigators ensure safety and gather evidence. The company operates in multiple regions, providing diverse work environments.
How to earn more as a Surveillance Investigator?
A Surveillance Investigator can find many ways to earn more in their career. Building skills and gaining experience open up higher-paying opportunities. Seeking roles in larger firms or urban areas often comes with better pay. A dedicated Surveillance Investigator who continuously learns can expect to see their earnings grow over time.
Here are some factors that can help increase earnings:
- Gain Experience: The more years of experience you have, the more valuable you become. Employers often offer higher salaries to those with a proven track record.
- Pursue Certifications: Earning relevant certifications can boost your qualifications. Many employers value certified investigators and may offer higher wages.
- Focus on Specialization: Developing expertise in a niche area, such as corporate surveillance or fraud investigation, can make you more in demand.
- Seek Advanced Education: Additional education in criminal justice or related fields can improve job prospects and salary potential.
- Work in High-Demand Areas: Certain locations or industries might offer higher salaries. Urban areas or sectors with high security needs can be more lucrative.



