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Coast Guard Investigative Service Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Environmental Engineer

Norfolk, VA · On-site +1

$108K - $140K/yr

Identify, investigate, document, and report environmental liabilities associated with Coast Guard ... Must be registered or exempt from the Selective Service. See www.sss.gov * A one-year probationary ...

Environmental Engineer

Norfolk, VA · On-site +1

$108K - $140K/yr

Identify, investigate, document, and report environmental liabilities associated with Coast Guard ... Must be registered or exempt from the Selective Service. See www.sss.gov * A one-year probationary ...

MARINE INVESTIGATOR

Vicksburg, MS · On-site +1

$89K - $134K/yr

S. Coast Guard, SECTOR HOUSTON/GALVESTON INSPECTIONS DIVISION and SECTOR LOWER MISSISSIPPI RIVER ... Providing input to the COTP/OCMI regarding most appropriate level of investigative effort and ...

MARINE INVESTIGATOR

Vicksburg, MS · On-site +1

$89K - $134K/yr

S. Coast Guard, SECTOR HOUSTON/GALVESTON INSPECTIONS DIVISION and SECTOR LOWER MISSISSIPPI RIVER ... Providing input to the COTP/OCMI regarding most appropriate level of investigative effort and ...

Program Manager

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$143K - $187K/yr

Being a Coast Guard civilian makes you a valuable member of the Coast Guard team. Typical work ... Must be registered or exempt from the Selective Service. See www.sss.gov * To ensure the ...

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Coast Guard Investigative Service information

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$32K

$75.3K

$131K

How much do coast guard investigative service jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for coast guard investigative service in the United States is $75,325.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,500.00 and $98,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paying Coast Guard job?

In the Coast Guard Investigative Service, senior leadership roles such as Special Agent in Charge or senior special agents tend to have the highest salaries, often supplemented by advanced certifications and experience. These positions typically require extensive investigative experience, security clearances, and leadership skills, and they offer higher pay grades within the service's pay scale.

What's the hardest job in the Coast Guard?

The Coast Guard Investigative Service's most challenging roles often involve investigating complex criminal activities such as drug trafficking, human smuggling, and maritime security threats, which require high levels of skill, discretion, and physical endurance. These positions may involve irregular hours, dangerous environments, and the need for specialized training and certifications. Overall, investigative roles demand a combination of technical knowledge, physical fitness, and resilience.

How to become a Coast Guard investigator?

To become a Coast Guard investigator, candidates typically need to join the Coast Guard as an enlisted member or officer, gain relevant experience, and complete specialized training in investigations. A background in law enforcement, security, or criminal justice, along with strong analytical skills and the ability to work in challenging environments, is beneficial. Applicants must meet physical fitness standards and pass background checks and security clearances.

What do Coast Guard investigators do?

Coast Guard investigators conduct criminal, environmental, and safety investigations related to maritime activities, including vessel accidents, drug interdictions, and security threats. They gather evidence, interview witnesses, and collaborate with other agencies to enforce laws and ensure maritime safety. Investigators often work in various environments, including on ships, at ports, and in offices, and may require specialized training and certifications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Coast Guard Investigative Service position, and why are they important?

To thrive in the Coast Guard Investigative Service (CGIS), you need a strong background in criminal investigation, law enforcement, and forensic analysis, often requiring federal law enforcement training and relevant experience. Familiarity with case management systems, evidence collection tools, and law enforcement databases is essential for daily operations. Exceptional attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong interpersonal communication set outstanding agents apart in this role. These skills are critical for gathering accurate evidence, collaborating effectively with diverse teams, and ensuring the integrity of complex investigations impacting national and maritime security.

What is a Coast Guard Investigative Service job?

A Coast Guard Investigative Service (CGIS) job involves conducting criminal, counterintelligence, and internal investigations related to the U.S. Coast Guard. CGIS special agents are responsible for investigating crimes such as fraud, drug trafficking, smuggling, and other offenses that impact Coast Guard operations. They work closely with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to ensure maritime security and uphold the law. CGIS agents may operate both domestically and internationally, providing critical support to national security efforts.

What does a typical day look like for a member of the Coast Guard Investigative Service?

A typical day for a Coast Guard Investigative Service agent involves conducting interviews, collecting and analyzing physical and digital evidence, and writing detailed investigative reports. Agents may be assigned to work on cases related to maritime law violations, drug trafficking, fraud, or internal affairs. Collaboration with other law enforcement agencies, both within and outside the Coast Guard, is common, requiring effective teamwork and communication. While office duties such as paperwork and case management are routine, agents should also expect to respond to field operations or incidents at a moment's notice, making flexibility and readiness key parts of the job.

More about Coast Guard Investigative Service jobs
What cities are hiring for Coast Guard Investigative Service jobs? Cities with the most Coast Guard Investigative Service job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Coast Guard Investigative Service jobs? The most popular types of Coast Guard Investigative Service jobs are:
What states have the most Coast Guard Investigative Service jobs? States with the most job openings for Coast Guard Investigative Service jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Coast Guard Investigative Service jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Coast Guard Investigative Service jobs are:

$12.50 - $16.25/hr

Other

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

When you join the Coast Guard Auxiliary, you could find yourself on patrol saving lives and property, assisting in marine safety and environmental protection, radio watchstanding, educating the public in boating safety and much more. That’s what our members do. We don’t just train. We train and perform.

Since 1939 the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary has safeguarded our Nation’s maritime interests in the heartland, in the ports, at sea, and around the globe. Members from all walks of life bring their training and experience as a member of the uniformed volunteer component of the United States Coast Guard.

Our main goal is recreational boating safety and education, while acting as a force multiplier in support of Coast Guard authorized missions.

Today’s U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, with nearly 21,000 men and women, is a unique force that carries out an array of responsibilities touching almost every facet of the U.S. maritime environment.

The Coast Guard’s motto is Semper Paratus, meaning "Always Ready".

The overarching mission of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is to contribute to the safety and security of our citizens, ports, waterways and coastal regions. We will balance our missions of Recreational Boating Safety and Coast Guard Support with Maritime Homeland Security and other challenges that emerge as a result of our growing understanding of changes required in the post-9/11 era.

Coast Guard Auxiliary members receive significant benefits including specialized maritime training (boat crew, coxswain), coverage for liability and property damage during authorized missions, and access to Coast Guard Mutual Assistance. Members also access the Coast Guard Federal Credit Union, uniforms, and various member discounts, alongside opportunities for awards and fellowship.

Key Benefits Details:

  • Insurance & Protection: Members operating under official orders are covered by insurance for injuries and are protected against liability claims.
  • Training & Education: Opportunities include boat handling, navigation, telecommunications, and specialized C-Schools in areas like the Incident Command System.
  • Financial Services: Access to Coast Guard Mutual Assistance (interest-free loans), Coast Guard Federal Credit Union.
  • Discounts & Perks: Members can receive discounts up to 48% on hearing aids and related services, as well as reduced rates on car rentals, pet insurance, and more.
  • Recognition: Members are authorized to wear uniforms and receive medals and ribbons for their service.
  • Networking & Camaraderie: Opportunities to participate in Coast Guard work-life programs, including, family wellness, and fellowship.

Members are also eligible for specialized training in areas such as public affairs, information services, and finance.