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What does a Surveillance Investigator do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 4 min read

A surveillance investigator is someone who gathers information about a person or organization through observation. This can be done in person, through electronic means, or by following the subject's movements.

Surveillance Investigator job duties include:

  • Conduct surveillance and investigations
  • Prepare detailed reports of findings
  • Take photographs and videos as needed
  • Conduct background checks
  • Locate and interview witnesses
  • Gather evidence and collect data
  • Analyze information and develop leads
  • Present findings to clients or employers
  • Testify in court as needed

Surveillance Investigator Job Requirements

A surveillance investigator is responsible for conducting investigations and gathering evidence. A successful candidate will have a minimum of a high school diploma, although a post-secondary degree or diploma in law enforcement or a related field is preferred. In addition, the candidate must have excellent observational and communication skills, and be able to work independently. Certification from a recognized investigative body is also an asset.

Surveillance Investigator Skills

  • Patience
  • Observation
  • Attention to detail
  • Ability to work independently
  • Discretion
  • Flexibility
  • Physical fitness
  • Agility
  • Stamina
  • Technical skills
  • Communication skills
  • Report writing skills

Related: Top Surveillance Investigator Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Surveillance Investigator

A surveillance investigator is a professional who gathers information and evidence through observation. This type of work can be both exciting and challenging, as it requires keen observational skills and the ability to think on one’s feet. If you are interested in becoming a surveillance investigator, there are a few things you need to know.

First and foremost, it is important to have excellent observational skills. Surveillance work often requires long periods of sitting or standing in one place, so you must be able to pay attention to your surroundings for extended periods of time. You will also need to have sharp eyesight and hearing, as you will often be looking for small details or trying to eavesdrop on conversations.

In addition to observational skills, it is also important to be able to think quickly and make decisions on the fly. Surveillance work can be unpredictable, so you need to be able to adapt to changing situations quickly. This means being able to assess a situation and make decisions about the best course of action quickly and without hesitation.

If you have the observational skills and quick thinking required for surveillance work, the next step is to get training. There are many private investigators who offer training courses specifically for surveillance work. These courses will teach you the techniques and strategies necessary for successful surveillance investigations.

Once you have completed a training course, the next step is to find employment with a private investigation agency or company that specializes in surveillance work. Many of these organizations will require that you have experience in law enforcement or security before they will hire you, so it is important to build up your resume before applying for jobs.

If you are interested in becoming a surveillance investigator, there are a few things you need to do: develop excellent observational skills, learn how to think quickly on your feet, get training from a reputable source, and find employment with a company that specializes in this type of work. With dedication and hard work, you can become a successful surveillance investigator and help others by gathering important information and evidence.

Related: Surveillance Investigator Resume Example

Related: Surveillance Investigator Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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