They investigate vandalism, theft, shoplifting, or dishonesty by employees or customers. Detectives may watch the business in order to catch suspects in the act of harming the business. They question suspects and catch culprits. They file complaints about suspects with the police. As a result, they often testify in court.
Detectives write case reports for their employer.
General investigators usually work for small firms. They are given assignments by the owner or manager of the firm and often work alone. Some investigators and detectives work for one person or company for several years. Other investigators and detectives have many clients who hire them for short periods. Detectives and Investigators is in the Protective Services Career Cluster.