The life as a private investigator

By: Sydney Davis

The Nature of the Work

Interview people to gather information Collect evidence to present in court Find facts and analyze information

about legal, financial, and personal matters

Typically work for individuals, attorneys, and businesses.

Education

Usually have college education Some investigation jobs may not have

specific education requirements, others require candidates to have a high school diploma

Because many financial investigators have an accountant’s background, they typically have a bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field

Training

Most private detectives and investigators learn on the job

New investigators must learn how to gather information, additional training depends on the type of firm that hires them

Employment

Employment of private detectives and investigators is expected to grow 21 percent from 2010 to 2020

Increased demand for private detectives and investigators go from heightened security concerns and the need to protect property and confidential information

Earnings

The lowest 10 percent earned less than $25,760

The top 10 percent earned more than $74,970

In May 2010 the median annual wage of private investigators was $42,870

Job Outlook

Competition is expected for most jobs, because private investigator careers attract many qualified people, including relatively young retirees from law enforcement or military careers

The best opportunities for jobseekers will be in entry-level jobs in detective agencies