Pros
I have worked for CoventBridge Group (formerly ICS Merrill) for the past six, almost seven years as a full time Field Investigator in the South Florida area. While no job is absent some issues, I must say that the last six years have been the most stable of my 27-year career as an investigator.
Most of the investigations are centered around insurance related issues but often corporate and government work gets assigned as well. The diversity of the work is considerable and always keeps things fresh and challenging. The pay is hourly and I rarely have trouble meeting my personal goal of 40 hours but usually stray into overtime which is paid at time and half. I know some investigators struggle to get 40 hours but more often than not it’s about their ability to be successful that determines this. For example, if an investigator regularly loses a subject or gets busted on a file his/her hours will suffer because they will not be working the entire case. So, in short, the number of hours you work is very often related to your skill as an investigator.
Yes, there are slow times when the assigned cases might not add up to 40 hours. I personally have not seen this as I live in the fraud capital of the world but I know it effects rural areas more. I can say that the execs make a conscience effort to have the appropriate number of investigators for an area based on the level of work so light work periods should not be the rule. If anything, I have heard more complaints about being worked TO MUCH.
Speaking of working too much, CBG has a pretty generous PTO system where starting guys get two weeks off a year and it builds with each year of service. Under the previous ownership of EMSI we had some issues with taking our PTO but this has changed dramatically under CBG management where they let you take your PTO without a problem but will also let you carry 40 hours over to the next year. Not bad. If you are a top tier investigator you can also block one weekend per month so as not to be scheduled for work (if you desire it).
Regarding pay, I have gotten a raise EVERY SINGLE YEAR I have worked for the company. I now make substantially more than a newb they hire off the street. The execs at CBG REWARD loyalty and good work. If you are a PROFESSIONAL investigator who works hard, they will take care of you. There is NO LIMIT on how much you make. Yes, you heard me, there is NO CAP on your hourly rate. Work hard, work professional, get a raise every year.
I won’t lie, if you suck, they will not treat you good. It’s all about accountability. Do a good job and they will reward you. Do a crappy job and they will not. It’s really simple.
Other great benefits are the medical plan which is VERY GOOD. And let me tell you that is no easy task in this age of Obamacare. The medical insurance alone is reason to love working for CBG imho. But then they also give you an awesome 401K that matches like 4% (maybe 5 I can’t recall) if what you put into it. HECK, that’s like finding money on the street! There is a really nice bonus program also that rewards the top investigators each month. The top guy gets $1000 BONUS. This is EVERY MONTH! 2nd place is like $600. The top 12 people in Surveillance and SIU/L&H are awarded. There is more stuff like a generous per diem vehicle allowance (like $320/month), a fuel card, company phone and more.
Listen, many people THINK they can be an investigator. But, just like anything, not everyone is GOOD at it. If you KNOW you are a good investigator (don’t just think it) then CBG will be an awesome home for you. But be warned, if you are a newb “wanna be” this is going to be a tough road. I have trained guys who were Federal Agents and Police for many years and could not cut it. The fact is that CBG expects you to be elite. They expect you to be the best. They expect you to be GOOD AT YOUR JOB. If you are, they will reward you. If not, well, you will be one of the whiners complaining.
Cons
OK, I gave a rating of five stars because I like working at CBG. Is there easier jobs? Probably. Is there better jobs? Yeah, sure I wish I was Marine Patrol. But is it the best out in this industry for investigators? I would have to say YES.
So in the interest of being fair I need to put something out there BAD, right? Ok, let me think. OK, I could be unrealistic and say I would like to get one million a year. SO bottom-line let's stick with realistic. I think the travel pay could be looked at. There is compensation for travel but it's not complete and probably could be re-worked. The execs have been VERY good at listening to suggestions and making changes given it's within their ability and is cost effective.
There IS a lot of report writing. Is this a CON? It does not bother me that much. I do most of my work in the car while working. Honestly, a professional investigator SHOULD BE GOOD AT WRITING REPORTS. But, while I think it's necessary, it is not easy and not for everyone.
I dunno. Hmm they could have a Christmas party every year. That would be nice.
