Surveillance Investigator

About Us

APEX Investigation® is a trusted leader in Insurance, Workers' Compensation, Liability, and Human Resource Investigations. For over 40 years, APEX has stood firm in its dedication to reducing insurance risks and combating fraudulent claims. Our commitment to delivering fast, high-quality, and reliable investigations has made us the partner of choice for our clients. APEX Investigation’s mission is to build lasting relationships through trust, integrity and quality investigations.

The APEX team lives out that mission by providing constant communication, results you can use, delivered fast at a fair price.

We are seeking a Surveillance Investigator to join our dynamic team. In this role, you’ll conduct stationary and mobile surveillance, gather critical intelligence, and produce detailed reports that help clients make informed decisions. Every day offers new challenges and opportunities to showcase your investigative expertise and problem‑solving skills.

• Hourly Rate: $22 - $28
• Target Annual Earnings: $60,000 – $74,000
• Monthly Performance Bonuses: Up to $300/month ($3,600/year)
• Mileage Reimbursement: $0.705/mile (IRS rate)
• Paid Travel Time

Earnings vary based on individual performance and market conditions.

• Perform discreet stationary and mobile surveillance using your own nondescript vehicle
• Capture high‑quality video footage in line with court evidence standards
• Submit accurate, detailed, and timely case reports using our online case management system
• Analyze case details to define objectives and verify crucial information such as addresses, phone numbers, and vehicle descriptions
• Maintain constant communication with management for real‑time updates on investigations

Here’s what a typical day actually looks like—no two are the same, but this gives you a feel for the work.

• Conduct discreet surveillance by monitoring, following, and capturing video footage of subjects as they go about their daily activities
• Engage in both vehicle and foot surveillance while maintaining cover and situational awareness
• Observe and document a variety of activities, from routine errands like grocery shopping to dynamic environments such as the gym, sporting events, or the movies
• Develop effective pre‑surveillance strategies tailored to the location and specific case details
• Prepare detailed, accurate reports on all observed activities and submit high‑quality video evidence to support findings
• Maintain consistent communication with your team leader to update on activity and adjust strategies as needed
• Check out this video to learn more:
  Day in the Life of a PI

• Required:
• Ownership or access to a discreet, reliable vehicle (see vehicle guidelines below)
• Flexible availability, including weekends, holidays, and overnight travel as needed
• Ability to work an average of 40‑50 hours per week, starting as early as 5:00‑7:00 AM
• A valid driver’s license with a clean driving record
• Strong and confident driving skills
• A valid credit card for reimbursable travel and gas expenses
• Must successfully pass a pre‑employment background check
• Proficiency in using a Windows laptop with the latest operating system
• Preferred:
• Degree in Criminal Justice or a related field and/or experience in Loss Prevention
• Bonus:
  Bilingual (Spanish) or military veteran experience

• To ensure your vehicle blends into its surroundings, it must meet the following criteria:
• Nondescript, neutral colors (e.g., earth tones); prohibited colors include red, yellow, orange, and maroon
• No convertibles, pickup trucks, electric vehicles, or vehicles with loud exhaust, aftermarket wheels, or personalized license plates
• Approved window tinting must comply with state law
• Vehicle must be in safe, reliable condition and regularly maintained by the investigator.

• Work independently
  — no office, no micromanaging. You run your own day in the field.
• Get paid to travel
  — mileage and travel time are both compensated. California is your office.
• Earn your PI license
  — every hour in the field counts toward your California Private Investigator License.
• Real mentorship
  — you'll…