Employment of investigators is expected to increase faster than the average for all occupations through 2005. Opportunities will be best for store detectives, as more businesses are expected to hire detectives to detect vandalism, shoplifting and other thefts. A high school diploma with specific vocational education classes or an associate or bachelor's degree may qualify a person for this occupation. Private investigators may be paid by the hour, by the case or on a commission basis. There is no limit to the fees experienced investigators can earn.
Supervisors earn more.