Private Detectives and Investigators
Gather, analyze, compile, and report information regarding individuals or organizations to clients, or detect occurrences of unlawful acts or infractions of rules in private establishment.
How to read this profile
BLS projects U.S. employment for Private Detectives and Investigators to increase by 5.5% between 2024 and 2034, from 39,500 to 41,700 jobs. Its estimate of 3,200 annual openings includes replacement needs, so it does not represent current vacancies, contract postings, or freelance demand. The wage ($51,220), education (High school diploma or equivalent), and related experience (Less than 5 years) figures on this profile describe typical U.S. employees. O*NET skills describe the occupation; they do not assess an individual worker's proficiency.
Base employment (2024)
39,500
Projected employment (2034)
41,700
Projected change (2024–2034)
6%
Annual openings (projected average)
3,200
Pay & Preparation
$51,220
High school diploma or equivalent
Less than 5 years
Moderate-term on-the-job training
Essential Skills
Active Listening (4.12/5) • Speaking (4/5) • Reading Comprehension (3.88/5) • Critical Thinking (3.88/5) • Complex Problem Solving (3.75/5) • Writing (3.62/5)
O*NET describes occupational requirements; these ratings do not measure current job-posting frequency or an individual worker’s proficiency.
BLS projections are long-term estimates; annual openings include growth and replacement needs and are not current vacancies.
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