Work Environment
This occupation is typically found in the following Career Sector(s):
Videos on the Web
- Private Investigator- from: Youtube Search
Most commonly reported Work Activities
- Getting Information Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
- Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events Identifying information by categorising, estimating, recognising differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
- Documenting/Recording Information Entering, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
- Interacting With Computers Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
- Making Decisions and Solving Problems Analysing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
- Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
- Analysing Data or Information Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
- Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
- Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
- Communicating with Persons Outside Organisation Communicating with people outside the organisation, representing the organisation to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
Working Life
Private investigators (PIs) use skills of observation, detection and surveillance to lawfully gather information that will be useful to their clients. The work of a PI falls into three areas: individual, corporate, and legal.
Individual work is done when an individual hires an investigator. This may involve, for example, tracing missing persons. A PI may also spend time observing the actions of someone who - according to the client - is acting improperly (as in a divorce case)
Corporate work can be for large or small businesses. It can involve investigating individuals, groups or companies, who the client suspects are making false insurance claims or embessling funds. Sometimes a business needs to combat shoplifting or theft by employees. Some large businesses are concerned about industrial espionage
Legal work is done for solicitors. It usually involves taking witness statements about accidents or crimes, investigating defence alibis, and serving writs and other legal documents. Private investigators have to keep detailed and accurate records of their work.
Most commonly reported Work Tasks
- Write reports or case summaries to document investigations.
- Conduct private investigations on a paid basis.
- Search computer databases, credit reports, public records, tax or legal filings, or other resources to locate persons or to compile information for investigations.
- Conduct personal background investigations, such as pre-employment checks, to obtain information about an individual's character, financial status, or personal history.
- Expose fraudulent insurance claims or stolen funds.
- Obtain and analyse information on suspects, crimes, or disturbances to solve cases, to identify criminal activity, or to gather information for court cases.
- Testify at hearings or court trials to present evidence.
- Question persons to obtain evidence for cases of divorce, child custody, or missing persons or information about individuals' character or financial status.
- Observe and document activities of individuals to detect unlawful acts or to obtain evidence for cases, using binoculars and still or video cameras.
- Confer with establishment officials, security departments, police, or postal officials to identify problems, provide information, or receive instructions.
Further Information
- Private Investigator- from: N.C.S. [UK]
Qualities - Private Investigator
As a private investigator you may find yourself working alone for long periods. However, at times you will also be part of a surveillance team, so you will need to be able to work effectively with others.
When on surveillance work it is important that you are able to remain unnoticed for long periods. Self discipline and high levels of concentration are needed as you may have to remain in one place (sitting in a car for example) for a whole day or night.
You need to be methodical, precise and objective when gathering evidence; private investigators are bound by the same rules of evidence as the police. You will need a high standard of literacy for writing reports.
Excellent interpersonal skills are also needed, as you will deal with all kinds of people. If you are taking a statement you need to be able to put people at ease. Dealing with clients in cases such as divorce needs sensitivity. You may sometimes have to deal with people who are impatient or angry.
You need to have a good basic knowledge of the law and legal procedure. The ability to use electronic equipment such as tape recorders, cameras and video cameras is necessary, as is the ability to drive.
Interests - Private Investigator
This occupation is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests:
Enterprising
Enterprising people like situations that involve using resources for personal or corporate economic gain. Such people may have an opportunistic frame of mind, and are drawn to commerce, trade and making deals. Some pursue sales and marketing occupations. Many will eventually end up owning their own business, or in management roles in larger organisations. They tend to be very goal-oriented and work best when focused on a target. Some have an entrepreneurial inclination.
Administrative
Administrative people are interested in work that offers security and a sense of being part of a larger process. They may be at their most productive under supervisors who give clear guidelines and while performing routine tasks in a methodical and reliable way.
They tend to enjoy clerical and most forms of office work, where they perform essential administrative duties. They often form the backbone of large and small organisations alike. They may enjoy being in charge of office filing systems, and using computers and other office equipment to keep things running smoothly. They usually like routine work hours and prefer comfortable indoor workplaces.
Entry / Progression - Private Investigator
It is unusual to enter this field without previous work experience. Most new entrants have a background in security work, either with the police or Armed Forces, and some have worked in the legal profession.
The Licensing of Private Investigators in Ireland comes into effect from the 1st November 2015. See The Private Security Authority (PSA).
Sample Education and Training Pathways
A number of courses are available throughout the country that focus on learning and skills that may be useful for this career. The examples and links below may guide you in your research.
Further Education (FET)
Further Education & Training (FET) Courses are delivered by local ETBs, ranging in duration from several weeks up to 20 months. Courses are designed to meet the labour market needs and often include a large element of work experience.
Example search terms include: security operations, management.
Search for FET Courses
PLC Courses (FET)
PLC courses are full-time courses, one or two years duration, with awards at Level 5 and 6 on the NFQ. They are offered nationally in Schools and Colleges of Further Education.
Example search terms include: business management, police, security studies, pre-garda, criminology, security, legal, security operation management, forensics, psychology.
Search for PLC Courses
Apprenticeships:
Apprenticeships are structured work-based training programs that combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. They run from 2 – 4 years and are open to individuals of all ages, including school leavers, those seeking a career change, and existing employees who wish to upskill.
Examples: Sales, ICT Cybersecurity Apprenticeships.
Search for Apprenticeships
Higher Education CAO (Undergraduate)
Higher Education courses at Levels 6 to 8 on the NFQ, delivered in Universities and Technological Universities & Institutes. Courses run from 2 – 5 years and places are allocated on a points-based system, processed by the Central Application Office.
Example search terms include: business, cyber crime, IT, security, law, legal studies, criminology, forensic investigation, analysis, psychology.
Search for CAO Courses
Higher Education (Postgraduate)
Postgraduate courses are courses at Levels 9 and 10 on the NFQ and usually last 1 – 2 years full time, or longer if a PhD or part time. Entrants typically require an undergraduate award (Level 8).
Example search terms include: sales, management, crime scene investigation, science, international security, conflict, criminology, forensic, psychological studies, accounting.
Search for Postgraduate Courses
Professional Development
Professional development (CPD) courses are specialised training, formal education, or advanced professional learning that improves skills, professional knowledge, competency, and overall effectiveness in the professional world.
As Private investigators are often self employed there are a number of supports as you set up and develop your practice.
Local enterprise offices: Business start up support & mentoring
ILDN Local Area partnerships: Enterprise support
Private Security Authority Ireland
Check the Useful Contacts tab on this page to see if there are any professional bodies listed who may provide training related to this career.
Pay & Salary - Private Investigator
Salary Range (thousands per year)* €26k - €45k
Salaries vary based on employer, location, experience, duties, and role. Salary depends on sessional & pro rata rates of services.
Data Source(s):
Erieri / Payscale/ Indeed
Last Updated: March, 2024
Labour Market Updates - Private Investigator
Note: The following information relates to occupations that include: Barristers; judges; Solicitors; Legal professionals n.e.c.
This information has been derived from the Solas National Skills Bulletin (2023).
Employment levels have declined annually since 2020 for this occupation, resulting in a negative growth rate for the five-year annual average. There were a small number of employment permits issued for legal counsel across a number of sectors including ICT and the financial sector. However, the professional, scientific and technical activities sector accounts for the majority of employment in this occupation.
Useful Contacts - Private Investigator
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World Association of Professional Investigators (WAPI)
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Institute of Professional Investigators
- 83 Guildford Street, Chertsey, Surry, KT16 9JL
- + 44 (0)870 3308622
- [email protected]
- Click Here
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Private Security Authority
