Private Detectives and Investigators Jobs Pay in California
Average Hourly Pay
Range: $26.86 – $38.42
Average Annual Pay
Range: $55,869 – $79,914
How much do Private Detectives and Investigators make?
Your level of experience is a key factor in determining your earning potential. Here's what you can expect at different career stages:
0-2 years
Hourly Rate
$25.90/hr
Range: $22.83 – $32.66
Annual Rate
$53,864
Range: $47,489 – $67,927
3-5 years
Hourly Rate
$30.47/hr
Range: $26.86 – $38.42
Annual Rate
$63,369
Range: $55,869 – $79,914
6+ years
Hourly Rate
$35.04/hr
Range: $30.89 – $44.18
Annual Rate
$72,874
Range: $64,249 – $91,901
Private Detectives and Investigators job description
Private Detectives and Investigators professionals protect people, property, and assets. They monitor premises, respond to incidents, and maintain a safe environment through vigilant observation and quick response.
- •Monitor premises and surveillance systems
- •Patrol assigned areas
- •Respond to security incidents
- •Control access to facilities
- •Write incident reports
- •Assist visitors and employees
- •Observation and awareness
- •Communication skills
- •Physical fitness
- •Conflict resolution
- •Report writing
- •Emergency response
- •Security license (if required)
- •Background check
- •First aid/CPR certification
- •Previous security experience

