National

Detect occurrences of unlawful acts or infractions of rules in private establishment, or seek, examine, and compile information for client.

Sample of reported job titles: Loss Prevention Officer, Loss Prevention Detective, Private Investigator, Investigator, Loss Prevention Agent, Loss Prevention Associate, Loss Prevention Investigator, Asset Protection Detective, Loss Prevention Specialist, Private Detective

Tasks

• Write reports and case summaries to document investigations.
• Search computer databases, credit reports, public records, tax and legal filings, and other resources in order to locate persons or to compile information for investigations.
• Obtain and analyze information on suspects, crimes, and disturbances in order to solve cases, to identify criminal activity, and to gather information for court cases.
• Conduct background investigations of individuals, such as pre-employment checks, to obtain information about an individual's character, financial status or personal history.
• Conduct private investigations on a paid basis.
• Testify at hearings and 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 in order to detect unlawful acts or to obtain evidence for cases, using binoculars and still or video cameras.
• Alert appropriate personnel to suspects' locations.
• Perform undercover operations such as evaluating the performance and honesty of employees by posing as customers or employees.

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Tools & Technology

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Technology used in this occupation: