The US Department of Labor (DOL) plays a critical role in enforcing labor laws, ensuring workplace safety, and protecting workers’ rights. Among its key personnel, Department of Labor Investigators hold a pivotal position, conducting inspections, audits, and investigations to ensure compliance with federal labor regulations.

This comprehensive 2025 guide details the salary, allowances, benefits, career progression, and other financial aspects for Department of Labor Investigators, providing clarity for prospective applicants, current employees, and those comparing federal investigative careers.

Overview of Department of Labor Investigator Role

Key Responsibilities

  • Conduct field inspections and investigations in workplaces across the USA

  • Ensure compliance with labor laws, including wage, hour, and safety regulations

  • Prepare detailed reports and legal documentation for enforcement actions

  • Collaborate with other federal agencies and provide expert testimony when required

  • Conduct follow-ups to ensure compliance and resolve violations

Employment Path

  • Investigators are typically hired under the Federal General Schedule (GS) pay scale

  • Entry-level positions may require a bachelor’s degree in law, labor relations, or related fields

  • Prior experience in law enforcement, auditing, or occupational safety is often preferred

Salary Structure for Department of Labor Investigators (2025)

Department of Labor Investigators are paid according to the General Schedule (GS) federal pay system, which assigns salaries based on grade level, years of experience, and geographic location.

GS Level Annual Salary Range (USD) Monthly Equivalent Notes
GS-7 $44,776 – $58,118 $3,731 – $4,843 Entry-level positions
GS-9 $53,433 – $69,501 $4,452 – $5,792 Standard investigator grade
GS-11 $66,829 – $86,881 $5,569 – $7,240 Mid-level, experienced investigators
GS-12 $79,468 – $103,309 $6,622 – $8,609 Senior investigators
GS-13 $95,867 – $124,406 $7,989 – $10,367 Supervisory or specialized roles

Note: Salaries vary depending on the locality pay adjustment for cost-of-living differences in cities across the United States.


Factors Influencing Investigator Salary

Several factors determine the total compensation of a DOL Investigator:

1. Grade Level (GS Level)

  • Entry-level investigators usually start at GS-7 or GS-9

  • Promotions to GS-11, GS-12, or GS-13 occur with experience, performance, and supervisory responsibility

2. Years of Service

  • Annual step increases provide incremental salary growth within each GS level

  • A typical step increase occurs every 1–3 years depending on performance

3. Geographic Location

  • Locality pay adjustments account for cost-of-living differences in major metropolitan areas like Washington, D.C., New York, and San Francisco

  • Locality pay can increase salaries by 15–30% over the base GS pay

4. Special Assignments

  • Investigators assigned to high-risk or specialized programs may receive hazard pay, overtime, or retention incentives


Allowances and Benefits for Department of Labor Investigators

1. Healthcare Benefits

  • Comprehensive health coverage through FEHBP (Federal Employees Health Benefits Program)

  • Includes medical, dental, vision, and life insurance

  • Family coverage is available at competitive federal rates

2. Retirement and Pension

  • Eligibility under the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)

  • Pension formula considers years of service, final average salary, and age

  • Investigators can retire early with reduced benefits or at full retirement after 30 years of service

3. Leave and Paid Time Off

  • Annual leave accrues based on years of service: 13–26 days per year

  • Sick leave accrues at 13 days per year, with carryover permitted

  • Paid federal holidays (10–11 days per year)

4. Travel and Official Expenses

  • Reimbursement for work-related travel, lodging, and per diem expenses

  • Investigators may travel for field inspections or inter-agency collaborations

5. Professional Development

  • Funding for training, certifications, and continuing education

  • Opportunities for advancement through specialized labor law or auditing certifications


Career Progression for DOL Investigators

Entry-Level Positions

  • GS-7 or GS-9 Investigator

  • Supervised by senior investigators or GS-12/13 officials

  • Focus on routine inspections, data collection, and reporting

Mid-Level Positions

  • GS-11 Investigator

  • Increased autonomy in investigations

  • May supervise junior staff or handle more complex labor cases

Senior-Level Positions

  • GS-12/GS-13 Investigator or Supervisory Investigator

  • Lead investigations, oversee teams, and coordinate with federal agencies

  • Participate in policy development and high-profile labor enforcement cases

Advancement Opportunities

  • Special assignments, certifications, and exemplary performance enhance promotion prospects

  • Opportunity to transition into federal law enforcement or administrative leadership roles


Comparison with Other Federal Investigative Roles

Role Annual Salary (USD) Notes
DOL Investigator (GS-9) $53,433 – $69,501 Standard investigator role
OSHA Compliance Officer $56,000 – $72,000 Focused on occupational safety
EEOC Investigator $54,000 – $70,000 Investigates discrimination cases
FBI Special Agent $62,000 – $98,000 Federal law enforcement with higher risk

Observation: DOL Investigators earn competitive federal salaries, with benefits and locality pay making them comparable to other specialized federal investigators.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. What is the starting salary for a DOL Investigator?
    GS-7 starts at $44,776 annually ($3,731 per month).

  2. Do investigators receive locality pay?
    Yes, depending on the city or state they are assigned to.

  3. Are health benefits included?
    Full federal coverage is provided under FEHBP.

  4. What is the retirement plan for DOL Investigators?
    They participate in FERS, with pensions based on salary and years of service.

  5. Is overtime pay available?
    Eligible investigators may receive overtime pay for field inspections or special assignments.

  6. Can DOL Investigators advance in rank?
    Yes, promotions are possible up to GS-13 or supervisory roles.

  7. Do they receive travel allowances?
    Yes, for official investigations and inter-agency assignments.

  8. Are salaries taxed?
    Yes, federal and state taxes apply to all earnings.

  9. How long does it take to reach senior-level pay?
    Typically 5–10 years, depending on performance and promotions.

  10. Do they get paid leave?
    Yes, including annual leave, sick leave, and federal holidays.


Conclusion

The US Department of Labor Investigator salary structure in 2025 offers a well-rounded compensation package combining base pay, locality adjustments, benefits, and allowances. Starting at $44,776 annually for entry-level positions and rising to over $124,000 for senior investigators, the role provides financial security, career growth, and professional development opportunities.

With comprehensive healthcare, pension, travel reimbursements, and training benefits, DOL Investigators enjoy both competitive salaries and a structured career path. Understanding these compensation details is essential for prospective employees and current investigators aiming for growth in one of the most impactful federal roles protecting workers’ rights.