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Assistant Homicide Detective Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Patrol Deputy

Beaufort, SC · On-site

$60K/yr

... prevention, detection, training, equipment operation, and administrative functions as may be ... Perform foot patrols. * Assist other agencies as required. * Investigate traffic accidents.

... * Assist in providing specialized treatment and rehabilitation of mental health patients. Assist ... Institute precautionary measures to prevent patient injuries due to suicide, homicide, or elopement.

... * Assist in providing specialized treatment and rehabilitation of mental health patients. Assist ... Institute precautionary measures to prevent patient injuries due to suicide, homicide, or elopement.

... * Assist in providing specialized treatment and rehabilitation of mental health patients. Assist ... Institute precautionary measures to prevent patient injuries due to suicide, homicide, or elopement.

Assistant Homicide Detective information

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$14

$23

$51

How much do assistant homicide detective jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant homicide detective in the United States is $23.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $23.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can I be a homicide detective without being a cop?

Typically, a homicide detective is a law enforcement officer who has completed police academy training and gained experience as a patrol officer. Most agencies require detectives to be sworn officers with police credentials before specializing in homicide investigations, so non-cops generally cannot directly become homicide detectives without first serving as a police officer.

What are Assistant Homicide Detectives?

Assistant Homicide Detectives are law enforcement professionals who support lead homicide detectives in investigating deaths that appear to be the result of criminal actions. Their duties often include gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, processing crime scenes, and assisting in preparing case files for prosecution. They work closely with other members of the police department and forensic specialists to help solve homicide cases. This role requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a thorough understanding of investigative procedures. Assistant Homicide Detectives typically have prior experience in law enforcement and may be working towards becoming lead detectives themselves.

How hard is it to become a homicide detective?

Becoming a homicide detective typically requires several years of law enforcement experience, usually starting as a police officer and gaining specialized training in criminal investigations. Candidates often need strong analytical skills, knowledge of forensic methods, and passing departmental exams or assessments; the process can take multiple years of service and continuous education.

How to become a detective assistant?

To become a detective assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some law enforcement agencies prefer prior experience or training in criminal justice. Strong communication, analytical skills, and attention to detail are important, and applicants often undergo background checks and physical fitness assessments. Gaining experience in law enforcement or related fields can improve chances of selection for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Assistant Homicide Detective, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Homicide Detective, you need a solid background in criminal justice, investigative techniques, and evidence collection, typically supported by law enforcement training and relevant certifications. Familiarity with forensic tools, crime scene analysis software, and case management systems is often required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating with teams and interviewing witnesses. These abilities are essential for successfully solving complex cases, ensuring justice, and maintaining public safety.

What are some common challenges faced by Assistant Homicide Detectives, and how can new hires prepare for them?

Assistant Homicide Detectives often encounter high-pressure situations, emotionally charged crime scenes, and the need to manage multiple cases simultaneously. New hires should be prepared for irregular hours and the mental resilience required to handle sensitive investigations. Collaborating closely with experienced detectives, forensic teams, and legal professionals is essential for success. Continuous learning, strong organizational skills, and practicing self-care can help new detectives manage these challenges effectively.

What is the difference between Assistant Homicide Detective vs Forensic Investigator?

AspectAssistant Homicide DetectiveForensic Investigator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED; law enforcement training; police academyDegree in criminal justice, forensic science, or related field; specialized certifications
Work EnvironmentPolice stations, crime scenes, courtroomsCrime labs, forensic labs, crime scenes
Employer & Industry UsageLaw enforcement agencies, police departmentsCrime labs, forensic units, law enforcement agencies
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for investigative roles in homicide casesCompared for scientific analysis of evidence

Assistant Homicide Detectives focus on investigating crimes, gathering evidence, and working directly with law enforcement. Forensic Investigators specialize in analyzing physical evidence in labs. Both roles are essential in homicide cases but differ in their primary responsibilities and work environments.

What is the highest paid homicide detective?

The highest paid homicide detectives typically earn salaries at the upper end of law enforcement pay scales, which can reach over $100,000 annually depending on experience, location, and rank. Advanced certifications, years of service, and specialized skills can contribute to higher compensation in this role.
More about Assistant Homicide Detective jobs
What cities are hiring for Assistant Homicide Detective jobs? Cities with the most Assistant Homicide Detective job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Homicide Detective jobs? The most popular types of Homicide Detective jobs are:
What states have the most Assistant Homicide Detective jobs? States with the most job openings for Assistant Homicide Detective jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Assistant Homicide Detective jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Assistant Homicide Detective jobs are:
Infographic showing various Assistant Homicide Detective job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,158 per year, or $23.6 per hour.
Assistant District Attorney: Cold Case Unit - Homicide Bureau

Assistant District Attorney: Cold Case Unit - Homicide Bureau

Queens District Attorney's Office

Kew Gardens, NY • On-site

$107K - $150K/yr

Other

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

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Job Openings >> Assistant District Attorney: Cold Case Unit - Homicide Bureau
Assistant District Attorney: Cold Case Unit - Homicide Bureau
Summary
Title: Assistant District Attorney: Cold Case Unit - Homicide Bureau ID: 1400 Location: Kew Gardens, NY Department: Legal Job Type: N/A
More about this job >
Description

The Queens County District Attorney's Office is seeking an experienced prosecutor to work in its Cold Case Unit in the Homicide Bureau.  The assistant will be responsible for the investigation and prosecution of cold case homicides and unidentified remains cases. 

The Cold Case Unit is comprised of an experienced team of assistant district attorneys, detective investigators and support staff who have systematically begun to sift through a substantial backlog of unsolved cases.  The goals of the unit are to give each of these cases a fresh look, to bring them up to investigative standards, and to seek community support and involvement, whenever appropriate. The unit uses groundbreaking forensic testing and cutting-edge investigative techniques to examine unsolved crimes to bring long-awaited justice to victims and their families.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

  • Working with various NYPD and QDA squads to enhance and solve challenging and complex cold case homicides and to identify human remains cases.
  • Maintaining a caseload of cold case investigations and indictments.
  • Interviewing witnesses, relevant experts and police officers.
  • Reviewing cold case homicides and unidentified remains cases to determine if DNA or other advanced forensic testing will assist in the development of investigative leads.
  • Coordinating with the Office of Chief Medical Examiner's Office, NYPD and other agencies to facilitate forensic testing and investigative leads.
  • Drafting subpoenas, search warrants, historical cell sites and other investigative applications.
  • Writing prospective arrest reports and prosecution memos.
  • Conducting grand jury presentations.
  • Depending on level of experience, conducting and/or second seating trials of cold case homicides.
  • Treating family members who have suffered the ultimate loss with kindness and compassion.

Qualifications:  Interested applicants must possess a J.D. degree, be an active member of the New York State bar in good standing and have at least 4 years post-J.D. experience.  Applicants must also have:

  • Grand jury and felony trial experience
  • Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and an exceptional ability to investigate and enhance complex cases.
  • Excellent case-management skills and ability to multi-task.
  • Candidates should have the experience of investigating and/or litigating cases involving violent crime, including the use of DNA and other forensic science.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills to work with detectives, various agencies, and families of homicide victims.

Salary range is from $107,000. to $150,000.
Applicants should submit a resume, along with a cover letter addressed to Counsel to the Chief Assistant Vincent J. Carroll Jr. Please apply through the link below.
Pursuant to Public Officers Law Section 3(1), United States citizenship is required of all Assistant District Attorneys upon commencement of their employment, as is New York State residency.
The City of New York is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.
As a current or prospective employee of the City of New York, you may be eligible for federal loan forgiveness programs and state repayment assistance programs. Please review the notice to see if you may be eligible for programs and how to apply at nyc.gov/studentloans.

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