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.
