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Cold Case Investigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Cold Case Investigator

Bronx, NY · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

A dedicated Cold Case Investigator would be able to assist in reviewing and cataloging Homicide and Sexual Assault cases that have been deemed cold to help locate and identify suitable cases to work ...

A dedicated Cold Case Investigator would be able to assist in reviewing and cataloging Homicide and Sexual Assault cases that have been deemed cold to help locate and identify suitable cases to work ...

A dedicated Cold Case Investigator would be able to assist in reviewing and cataloging Homicide and Sexual Assault cases that have been deemed cold to help locate and identify suitable cases to work ...

Additionally, the FSU coordinates cold case homicide and sexual assault investigations. The Forensic Analyst is responsible for providing the FSU with investigative and analytical support for cold ...

Forensic Analyst

Bronx, NY · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Additionally, the FSU coordinates cold case homicide and sexual assault investigations. The Forensic Analyst is responsible for providing the FSU with investigative and analytical support for cold ...

Additionally, the FSU coordinates cold case homicide and sexual assault investigations. The Forensic Analyst is responsible for providing the FSU with investigative and analytical support for cold ...

Investigator

Austin, TX · On-site

$84K/yr

Reviews case files with attorneys; prepares reports of work progress on assigned cases; monitors ... Exposure to excessive heat and cold (outdoor conditions); job may involve danger due to contact ...

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How much do cold case investigator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for cold case investigator in the United States is $31.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.24 and $36.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are cold case investigators?

Cold case investigators are law enforcement professionals who specialize in reviewing and solving unsolved criminal cases, often years or decades after the initial investigation. They use modern investigative techniques, such as forensic technology and DNA analysis, to re-examine evidence and generate new leads. Their goal is to bring resolution to cases that have gone 'cold' due to a lack of evidence or leads, providing justice for victims and closure for families.

What Does a Cold Case Investigator Do?

A cold case is an investigation that has gone unsolved after more than a year; initial efforts did not yield enough evidence to identify or arrest a suspect, or to come to any definitive conclusions. Cold case investigators re-open these cases to bring a fresh perspective to the collected evidence or when new evidence has surfaced. In this role, you review forensic data that has already been collected and look at witness statements and incident reports received at the time. When possible, you may also go back to the crime scene to try to visualize what may have happened and interview witnesses or previous investigators again to find new leads. Your goal is to move the case forward towards a conclusion and a conviction when possible.

How does a Cold Case Investigator typically collaborate with other law enforcement professionals during an investigation?

Cold Case Investigators often work closely with a multidisciplinary team, including forensic analysts, detectives, prosecutors, and sometimes federal agencies. Collaboration is key to re-examining evidence, conducting new interviews, and leveraging advancements in technology such as DNA analysis. Regular meetings and case reviews ensure all team members are aligned and can bring their specialized expertise to bear on unresolved cases. This teamwork increases the chances of uncovering new leads and ultimately solving long-standing cases.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Cold Case Investigator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cold Case Investigator, you need a background in criminal justice or law enforcement, strong analytical skills, and experience in investigative procedures, often supported by a relevant degree and police academy training. Familiarity with forensic technology, crime databases (such as NCIC), and evidence management systems is essential. Persistence, critical thinking, and excellent communication skills help investigators collaborate with colleagues, witnesses, and victims’ families. These skills are crucial for effectively re-examining unresolved cases, uncovering new evidence, and delivering justice in complex investigations.
What cities are hiring for Cold Case Investigator jobs? Cities with the most Cold Case Investigator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Cold Case Investigator jobs? The most popular types of Cold Case Investigator jobs are:
What states have the most Cold Case Investigator jobs? States with the most job openings for Cold Case Investigator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Cold Case Investigator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, and 24% Part Time. Highlights an 88% In-person, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,950 per year, or $31.7 per hour.
Cold Case Investigator

Cold Case Investigator

City of New York

Bronx, NY • On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


City Of New York rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 77 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

483rd of 646 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Company Description
Job Description
The Office of the District Attorney, Bronx County ("BXDA") is charged with the twin goals of ensuring public safety and striving for equal justice for the over 1.4 million members of the Bronx County community. By "Pursuing Justice with Integrity," the BXDA places a focus on assistance for crime victims while simultaneously ensuring fairness to defendants. Moreover, the BXDA aims to balance the need to seek appropriate punishment for certain crimes while recognizing when punitive measures do not adequately advance justice. By recognizing these significant distinctions and acting accordingly, BXDA has established a standard of excellence in the representation of the Bronx community at large, which continues to grow stronger every day.
In furtherance of this mission, the BXDA seeks experienced and enthusiastic Cold Case Investigator. A dedicated Cold Case Investigator would be able to assist in reviewing and cataloging Homicide and Sexual Assault cases that have been deemed cold to help locate and identify suitable cases to work up and aid in investigating those cases. They would also assist in evaluating each case to determine which cases meet the criteria to investigate further within the guidelines of the grant. This person would be exclusively assigned to the Forensic Sciences Unit Cold Case team which would allow for a focused investigator to be invested throughout long-term investigations.
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:
Specific duties include but not limited to the following:
- Conduct thorough and professional investigations in a discreet manner as assigned.
- Mentor and assist junior investigators when appropriate.
- Continuing case management and review.
- Provide on-going status updates to the Chief and Deputy Chief of the Forensic Science Unit.
- Ability to access and utilize various computer databases.
- Ability to liaison with other law enforcement agencies and government and financial institutions.
- Assist investigators and Assistant District Attorneys in preparation for court proceedings.
REQUIREMENTS:
-The ideal candidate must have a valid certificate of completion from a New York State Basic Course for Police Officers academy or must be eligible to attend and complete a Police Officer Refresher course.
- All applicants must possess a valid NY State driver's license and be able to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as necessary.
- Must pass a psychological and physical exam and a background check.
- Must be qualified to Carry a Firearm.
-Prior experience working within the New York City criminal justice system and/or experience as a police officer within the State of New York is a plus.
-Extensive knowledge and investigative experience in one or more of the following areas is preferred: homicides, robberies, grand larceny, financial crimes, fraud, and identity theft.
- As per NY Public Officers Law 2, 3-B, U.S. citizenship required.
- Testify before grand or petit juries regarding investigations
- Conduct complex and highly confidential investigations and relevant research
- Assist and mentor investigators in the use of electronic and technical equipment (e.g., Audio equipment, plate reader, LoJack tracking device, mobile digital terminals, and surveillance -photographic equipment)
- Prepare reports and maintains records of activities and investigations.
- Participate in protective details and locate, transport, and protect witnesses
- Assist NYPD Cold Case Detectives, suggest work methods; monitor progress and prepare and review reports Participate in extraditions and related travel
- All other duties as assigned.
COMMUNITY COORDINATOR - 56058
Qualifications
1. A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college and two years of experience in community work or community centered activities in an area related to the duties described above; or
2. High school graduation or equivalent and six years of experience in community work or community centered activities in an area related to the duties as described above; or
3. Education and/or experience which is equivalent to "1" or "2" above. However, all candidates must have at least one year of experience as described in "1" above.
Additional Information
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.

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