Desktop Investigator

Company Description

SCOUT Investigations & AML is a female-led, academically minded boutique consulting firm pioneering a fresh perspective on compliance and investigations in Australia. The firm brings together a diverse team with extensive public and private sector experience across banking and finance, technology, retail, security and intelligence, mining, and state and federal government. Team members are internationally experienced, having worked, studied, and lived in the Americas, Australasia, Europe, and Africa.

SCOUT specialises in private, insurance, and workplace investigations, as well as AML/CTF and sanctions compliance. Joining SCOUT means contributing to complex, high-impact matters in a collaborative, research-driven environment.

Role Description

Scout Investigations is seeking a Desktop Investigator to support our investigations team by conducting research, open-source intelligence gathering (OSINT), and evidence analysis. This role involves analysing publicly available information, reviewing documentation, identifying relevant evidence, and preparing concise research summaries to assist investigators and clients.

Desktop investigations are often conducted alongside formal workplace or factual investigations and may involve researching individuals, companies, historical events, or publicly available records. The successful candidate will be curious, methodical, and able to follow evidence trails across multiple sources while maintaining a high level of accuracy.

Typical tasks may include:

• Conducting open-source intelligence (OSINT) searches
• Identifying and reviewing publicly available information relating to individuals and organisations
• Analysing corporate records, court records, media reports, and other open-source material
• Conducting background research to support workplace and factual investigations
• Reviewing documents and identifying key facts, inconsistencies, and timelines
• Preparing concise research summaries and intelligence briefs
• Assisting investigators with evidence gathering and analysis
• Supporting investigative teams with ad-hoc research tasks

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in law, criminology, security studies, finance, international relations, or a related field is preferred, or equivalent practical experience.
• Demonstrated strong investigative and research skills, including experience with open-source intelligence (OSINT), online databases, and public records.
• Proven ability to analyse complex information, identify patterns and inconsistencies, and draw evidence-based conclusions.
• Demonstrated excellent written communication skills, with experience drafting clear, concise, and structured investigative reports.
• High level of professionalism, integrity, and discretion when handling sensitive and confidential information.
• Strong organisational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple cases and meet deadlines in a remote setting.
• Comfort with digital tools and platforms, including document management systems, research tools, and secure communication channels.
• Certificate III in Investigative Services and an individual private investigator's licence is preferred.

Working Arrangements

Applicants must have the right to work in Australia, be comfortable working in a remote / hybrid environment, and have access to a suitable laptop/computer, mobile phone, and reliable internet connection.