Working Conditions for Private detectives and investigatorsPrivate detectives and investigators often work irregular hours because of the need to conduct surveillance and contact people who are not available during normal working hours. Early morning, evening, weekend, and holiday work is common. Many detectives and investigators spend time away from their offices conducting interviews or doing surveillance, but some work in their office most of the day conducting computer searches and making phone calls. Those who have their own agencies and employ other investigators may work primarily in an office and have normal business hours. When working on a case away from the office, the environment might range from plush boardrooms to seedy bars. Store and hotel detectives work in the businesses that they protect. Investigators generally work alone, but they sometimes work with others during surveillance or when following a subject in order to avoid detection by the subject. Some of the work involves confrontation, so the job can be stressful and dangerous. Some situations call for the investigator to be armed, such as certain bodyguard assignments for corporate or celebrity clients. Detectives and investigators who carry handguns must be licensed by the appropriate authority. In most cases, however, a weapon is not necessary because the purpose of their work is gathering information and not law enforcement or criminal apprehension. Owners of investigative agencies have the added stress of having to deal with demanding and sometimes distraught clients. More information on Private detectives and investigators from The U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook Overview of Private detectives and investigators occupation Number of Private detectives and investigators in the U.S. Salary and earnings for Private detectives and investigators Working conditions for Private detectives and investigators Significant points for Private detectives and investigators Training requirements for Private detectives and investigators Labor Information Home | Occupational data by city | Search Rainforests | Madagascar | What's new |