Surveillance Investigator

Compensation and Earnings

• 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.

Key Responsibilities

• 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

Day in The Life of a PI

Here's what a typical day actually looks like — no two are the same, but this gives you a feel for the work.
• Conducting discreet surveillance by monitoring, following, and capturing video footage of subjects as they go about their daily activities
• Engaging in both vehicle and foot surveillance while maintaining cover and situational awareness
• Observing and documenting a variety of activities, from routine errands like grocery shopping to dynamic environments such as the gym, sporting events, or the movies
• Developing effective pre-surveillance strategies tailored to the location and specific case details
• Preparing detailed, accurate reports on all observed activities and submitting high-quality video evidence to support findings
• Maintaining 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

What You'll Need to Apply

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

Surveillance Vehicle Guidelines

• 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.

Why APEX

• 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 have an experienced manager in your corner, not just a supervisor checking boxes.
• A team that has your back — field investigators who know the work and support each other.
• Competitive pay that grows — performance bonuses reward results, not just showing up.

Benefits

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• PTO
• FSA
• Simple IRA Plan