Job Description for a Paranormal Investigator
The rash of paranormal television shows such as "Ghost Hunters" and "Ghost Adventures" has led to an increased interest in the field of paranormal research. While these shows display a fun, lucrative side to the paranormal investigation career, the truth is that many paranormal researchers have far less success and far less exposure than the investigators on television. Still, those who have more than a passing interest in becoming an investigator should look into the steps it takes and the work involved.
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Duties
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Paranormal investigators study any unusual happenings within a place. This can vary from strange noises to floating objects. Investigators work by either aiming to disprove a haunting or trying to find evidence for said haunting. The disapproval method involves searching for possible other sources for any supposed paranormal activity. In some instances, these can be gas leaks, power lines or unstable house foundations. Investigators who prefer to try proving hauntings do so by using tools like electromagnetic field detectors and thermal cameras to capture evidence of a haunting in a home or building. Many investigators also take care to talk with the people needing the investigation to help them understand paranormal phenomena and put their worries at ease.
Education
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Despite the interest in parapsychology and paranormal research, most accredited colleges lack a formal parapsychology major. Many colleges will offer the occasional course in paranormal studies as an elective. Overseas, the University of Edinburgh offers one of the only parapsychology degrees in the world. Because of the lack of an actual degree in the field, many established researchers, such as Grant Wilson of The Trans-Atlantic Paranormal Society, recommend receiving a degree in another field, usually psychology. While earning that degree, reading up on paranormal studies on your own time is suggested.
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Skills
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Having a background in psychology helps when dealing with work as a paranormal investigator. The job entails working with people who desire a haunting investigation, and knowing how to handle the psychological aspect of the job is a bonus. In addition, paranormal investigators need to know how to work the equipment needed for an investigation. Some background in dealing with electrical equipment is a plus, as many investigators need to set up equipment for investigations. Skills in photography and film help as well, as investigators will need to review their evidence from investigations. The Paranormal Ghost website recommends skills in law, public relations and marketing as well.
Work Environment
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Paranormal investigators spend much of their time on investigations. These can be anywhere from residential homes to churches. When not on-site, investigators work within their preferred setting in order to review evidence. This can be a personal office or shared workspace with other investigators. Some paranormal investigators who manage to find a job in a more lucrative market can work within a laboratory to perform tests and learn more about paranormal research.
Salary Range
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Most researchers will tell you that a job as a paranormal investigator does not pay well. In fact, work as a paranormal investigator often costs more than it brings in. Investigators must buy their own equipment, which is usually rather expensive. Grant Wilson from "Ghost Hunters" recommends performing another job and doing paranormal investigating as a side job.
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References
- Photo Credit ghost"s footprint image by Hao Wang from Fotolia.com
