1

Crime Investigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CRIMINAL INVESTIGATOR PUBLIC SAFETY DEER LODGE, MT The Montana Department of Corrections (DOC) is ... Not been convicted of a crime for which could have led to being imprisoned in a federal or state ...

Criminal Investigator

Washington, DC · On-site

$80K - $103K/yr

However, duties may require frequent visits to areas with high crime rates to conduct interviews of ... with investigative policies and procedures. Firearms qualification is mandatory as part of the ...

Showing results 21-40

Crime Investigator information

See salary details

$34K

$59.6K

$88.5K

How much do crime investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for crime investigator in the United States is $59,636.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,500.00 and $67,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a crime investigator?

Crime investigators are professionals who collect, analyze, and document evidence from crime scenes to solve criminal cases. They work closely with law enforcement agencies to identify suspects, interview witnesses, and build cases that can be used in court. Their duties may involve processing forensic evidence, writing detailed reports, and testifying in legal proceedings. Crime investigators can specialize in areas such as homicide, cybercrime, or financial crimes depending on their training and agency needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a crime investigator?

To thrive as a Crime Investigator, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a background in criminal justice or law enforcement, often supported by a relevant degree or police academy training. Familiarity with forensic technology, evidence management systems, and investigative software is typically required. Exceptional communication, critical thinking, and perseverance help investigators effectively interview witnesses and collaborate with teams. These skills and qualities are crucial for solving cases accurately and ensuring justice is served.

What are some common challenges faced by crime investigators when working on complex cases?

Crime investigators often encounter challenges such as managing large volumes of evidence, coordinating with multiple agencies, and ensuring the integrity of crime scenes. Balancing the need for thoroughness with tight deadlines can be demanding, especially in high-profile or sensitive cases. Additionally, investigators must regularly adapt to new forensic technologies and maintain clear communication with colleagues, witnesses, and legal professionals to build strong cases.

What is the difference between Crime Investigator vs Forensic Scientist?

AspectCrime InvestigatorForensic Scientist
CredentialsHigh school diploma, law enforcement training, possibly criminal justice degreeDegree in forensic science, chemistry, biology, or related field; certifications may be required
Work EnvironmentCrime scenes, law enforcement agencies, outdoor and indoor locationsLaboratories, crime labs, research facilities
Employer & IndustryPolice departments, law enforcement agenciesForensic labs, government agencies, private labs
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding law enforcement roles in investigationsUnderstanding scientific analysis in criminal cases

While both Crime Investigators and Forensic Scientists play vital roles in criminal justice, Crime Investigators focus on collecting evidence at crime scenes and conducting investigations, often working directly with law enforcement. Forensic Scientists analyze evidence in labs to provide scientific insights. Both careers require specialized training and are essential for solving crimes, but they differ in work environment and daily responsibilities.

How do you become a crime investigator?

To become a crime investigator, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by completing a police academy training program. Many agencies prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree in criminal justice or a related field and relevant law enforcement experience; strong analytical skills and knowledge of investigative techniques are also important.

How much do crime investigators get paid?

Crime investigators, also known as criminal investigators or detectives, typically earn a median annual salary of around $65,000 to $85,000, depending on experience, location, and agency. Salaries can vary widely based on jurisdiction, level of experience, and specialized skills such as forensic analysis or cybercrime investigation.

Is being a crime investigator worth it?

Crime investigators analyze crime scenes, gather evidence, and work with law enforcement to solve cases. The role often requires strong attention to detail, critical thinking, and knowledge of forensic tools; it can be rewarding for those interested in justice but may involve irregular hours and exposure to stressful situations.
More about Crime Investigator jobs

What cities are hiring for Crime Investigator jobs?

Cities with the most Crime Investigator job openings:

What states have the most Crime Investigator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Crime Investigator jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Crime Investigator jobs?

For Crime Investigator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Crime Investigator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,636 per year, or $28.7 per hour.

Criminal Investigator

Sierra Vista, AZ • On-site, Remote

$106K - $172K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Summary
The Office of Inspector General (OIG) is an independent office whose mission is to promote excellence, integrity, and accountability throughout the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). In our dynamic environment, the OIG conducts investigations, audits, evaluations, and inspections to enhance program effectiveness and efficiency and to detect and prevent waste, fraud, and mismanagement in DHS programs and operations.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
Help
The Office of Investigations is responsible for investigating the appropriate criminal and civil justice system those individuals and organizations involved in financial, professional, civil, or criminal misconduct relating to Department of Homeland Security programs and operations.
The position serves as a Criminal Investigator responsible for the most difficult, sensitive and complex investigative matters. Case assignments involve matters of extreme sensitivity, scope and complexity; a wide range and variety of interrelated activities; a wide number of separate investigative matters that grow from the original assignments; exceptional difficulty in establishing the interrelationships of fact or evidence; and require extensive and critical jurisdictional problems involved in completing the investigations. Typical assignments include:
  • Directs and coordinates in-depth reviews and evaluations of criminal investigations program operations. Identifies areas requiring additional or decreased OIG investigative and/or oversight attention.
  • Reviews final investigative reports and memoranda to ensure compliance with established quality assurance standards.Serves as the technical and programmatic OIG liaison with the Department's law enforcement bureaus for complex and sensitive oversight reviews.
  • Presents new and novel issues requiring an extraordinarily high degree of ingenuity and initiative. Provides direction in conducting criminal investigative functions and oversight of the law enforcement bureaus.
  • Oversees and coordinates the review of criminal, civil, and administrative investigations conducted by the Department's law enforcement bureaus.
  • Presents new and novel issues requiring an extraordinarily high degree of ingenuity and initiative. Provides direction in conducting criminal investigative functions and oversight of the law enforcement bureaus.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Requirements
Help
Conditions of employment
  • You must be a U.S. citizen to apply for this position.
  • You must successfully pass a background investigation.
  • You must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret/SCI security clearance.
  • You must complete a pre-employment medical examination that will include testing of your vision, hearing, cardiovascular, and mobility of extremities by an authorized Government physician.
  • Selective Service registration required.
  • Completion of 1 year probationary period may be required.
  • This position is subject to the Lautenberg Amendment, 18 U.S.C. Section(g)(9)/Domestic Violence Misdemeanor Amendment to the Gun Control Act of 1968. You will be required to carry a firearm.
  • You will be required to sign a mobility agreement.
  • You must possess and maintain a valid state issued driver's license.
  • This position is a Drug Testing Designated Position and will be subject to random drug testing.
  • Submission of Performance Appraisal is mandatory.
  • Law Enforcement Availability Pay (LEAP): LEAP in the amount of 25% has been approved for this position.

Qualifications
You will qualify for the GS-13 grade level if you possess one year of specialized experience at the GS-12 grade level performing the following:
1. Presenting evidence that reconstructs events, sequences, and time element to establish relationships, responsibilities, legal liabilities, and conflict.
2. Utilizing techniques, methods, and equipment in conducting a full life cycle criminal investigation to include drafting and preparing concise, logical reports of investigations and summaries.
3. Collaborating with other law enforcement agencies for purpose of obtaining their cooperation in furnishing information concerning illegal activities involving violations of criminal law.
AdditionalRequirements:
  • Training Requirement: This position requires that you have completed the basic criminal investigator course at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in Glynco, GA or its equivalent (FBI Basic Special Agent Academy; DEA Basic Special Agent Academy; U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Basic Inspector Training Program; U.S. Army Military Police School; CID Special Agent Course; and U.S. Air Force Office of Special Investigations, Special Investigators Course). (Copy of certificate or transcript verifying completion required upon selection. Please ensure it is listed on your resume.)
  • FirearmRequirement: This position requires you to be authorized to carry a firearm and maintain firearm proficiency. Therefore, it is subject to the Lautenberg Amendment, 18 U.S.C. Section 922(g) (9) and you will be required to verify that you have not been convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence.
  • Age Requirement: This position is covered by the law enforcement officer retirement provisions, 5 U.S.C. 8336 (c) or 5 U.S.C. 8412 (d),and as such is covered by a mandatory age requirement. There is a maximum entry age of the day before your 37th birthday for original appointment into law enforcement officer positions as defined in 5 U.S.C. 8331(21) or 5 U.S.C. 8401(17). This age restriction does not apply to those who have prior Federal service in a covered primary law enforcement position, or to qualified Veterans' preference eligible regardless of whether they meet the maximum age requirements identified at 5 U.S.C. 3307.
  • MedicalRequirement:This position requires you to maintain physical fitness standards set by the agency. The duties of Criminal Investigators require moderate to arduous physical exertion involving walking and standing, use of firearms, and exposure to inclement weather. Manual dexterity with comparatively free motion of finger, wrist, elbow, shoulder, hip, and knee joints is required. Sufficiently good vision in each eye, with or without correction, is required to perform the duties satisfactorily. Near vision, corrective lenses permitted, must be sufficient to read printed material the size of typewritten characters. Hearing loss, as measured by an audiometer, must not exceed 35 decibels at 1000, 2000, and 3000 Hz levels. Additionally, the duties of this position involve activities under trying conditions, as such, applicants must possess emotional and mental stability. This position may require the completion of a Medical Examination that will include testing of your vision, hearing, cardiovascular, and mobility of extremities by an authorized Government physician. If a medical examination is required, you must be cleared by the authorized Government physician in order to be determined physically fit to perform the arduous physical exertion required of this position.

This position has been identified as a Testing Designated Position (TDP); therefore, you are subject to drug testing under OIG's Drug-Free Workplace policy. Refusal to be randomly tested may result in disciplinary action up to and including removal from federal service.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
The qualification requirements listed above must be met by the cutoff date or 09/28/2026of this announcement. Current federal employees must have served 52 weeks at the next lower grade level or equivalent grade band in the federal service. The time-in-grade requirement must be met by the cutoff or closing date 09/28/2026 of this announcement.
The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) must authorize employment offers made to current or former political appointees. If you are currently, or have been within the last 5 years, a political Schedule A, Schedule C, Non-career SES or Presidential Appointee employee in the Executive Branch, you must disclose this information to the Human Resources Office.
Education
This job does not have an education qualification requirement.
Additional information
DHS offers competitive salaries and an attractive benefits package, including: health, dental, vision, life, and long-term care insurance; retirement plan; Thrift Savings Plan [similar to a 401(k)]; Flexible Spending Account; Employee Assistance Program; personal leave days; and paid federal holidays.
Other benefits may include: flexible work schedules; telework; tuition reimbursement; transportation subsidies; uniform allowance; health and wellness programs; and fitness centers. DHS is committed to employee development and offers a variety of employee training and developmental opportunities. For more information, go to the DHS Careers website and select "Benefits." Disabled veteran leave will be available to any Federal employee hired on or after November 5, 2016, who is a veteran with a service-connected disability rating of 30 percent or more.
Due weight will be given to performance appraisals and incentive awards in merit promotion selection decisions in accordance with 5 CFR 335.103(b)(3).
DHS uses E-Verify, an Internet-based system, to confirm the eligibility of all newly hired employees to work in the United States. Learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities.
Reasonable Accommodation Requests: If you believe you have a disability (i.e., physical or mental), covered by the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 as amended and Americans with Disabilities Act 1990 as amended, that would interfere with the application or selection process, please email us at Applicant.Inquiries@oig.dhs.gov. Decisions on requests for Reasonable Accommodations are made on a case-by-case basis.
The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) must authorize employment offers made to current or former political appointees. If you are currently, or have been within the last 5 years, a political Schedule A, Schedule C, Non-career SES or Presidential Appointee employee in the Executive Branch, you must disclose this information to the Human Resources Office.
If you receive a conditional offer of employment for this position, you will be required to complete an Optional Form 306, Declaration for Federal Employment, and to sign and certify the accuracy of all information in your application, prior to entry on duty. False statements on any part of the application may result in withdrawal of offer of employment, dismissal after beginning work, fine, or imprisonment.
The Department of Homeland Security encourages persons with disabilities to apply, to include persons with intellectual, severe physical or psychiatric disabilities, as defined by 5 CFR 213.3102(u), and or Disabled Veterans with a compensable service-connected disability of 30 percent or more as defined by 5 CFR 315.707. Veterans, Peace Corps, VISTA volunteers, and persons with disabilities possess a wealth of unique talents, experiences, and competencies that can be invaluable to the DHS mission. If you are a member of one of these groups, you may not have to compete with the public for federal jobs. To determine your eligibility for non-competitive appointment and to understand the required documentation, click on the links above or contact the servicing Human Resources Office listed at the bottom of this announcement.
Applying to this announcement certifies that you give permission for DHS to share your application with others in DHS for similar positions.
Expand Hide additional information
Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
Help
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Review our benefits
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.