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Detective Investigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

MD · On-site

Three years of investigative work as a Special Detective Investigator or in a municipal, county, state or federal police agency supervising multiple detectives. Candidates must be retired in good ...

Three years of investigative work as a Special Detective Investigator or in a municipal, county, state or federal police agency supervising multiple detectives. Candidates must be retired in good ...

MD · On-site

$88K - $145K/yr

Three years of investigative work as a Special Detective Investigator or in a municipal, county, state or federal police agency supervising multiple detectives. Candidates must be retired in good ...

Detective

Savannah, GA · On-site

$56K/yr

Prepare investigative narratives and professional case files. Conduct in-depth interviews and ... Serve as an on-call Detective on a rotational basis for one (1) week at a time. Other duties may be ...

Senior Rackets Investigator

Bronx, NY · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

... Detective Investigator. - Ability to access and utilize various computer databases. - Ability to liaison with other law enforcement agencies and government and financial institutions. - Assist ...

... Detective Investigator. - Ability to access and utilize various computer databases. - Ability to liaison with other law enforcement agencies and government and financial institutions. - Assist ...

Experience working as an SVU Detective, investigating child and/or adult sex crimes, is highly preferred, but not required. Selection Process * Oral Board Interview: An assessment of the candidate ...

Dauphin County Criminal Investigation Division - Violent Crime Unit Location: Harrisburg, PA ... The detective will also play a critical role in the judicial process by providing testimony in ...

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Detective Investigator information

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$32K

$75.3K

$131K

How much do detective investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for detective investigator 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 a detective investigator?

Detective Investigators are law enforcement professionals who investigate crimes, gather evidence, interview witnesses, and help solve cases. They often work for police departments, government agencies, or private organizations. Their duties include analyzing crime scenes, writing reports, testifying in court, and collaborating with other law enforcement officials. Detective Investigators play a crucial role in ensuring justice and public safety by solving complex cases.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a detective investigator?

To thrive as a Detective Investigator, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a background in law enforcement, often supported by a relevant degree or police academy training. Familiarity with case management software, forensic tools, and evidence collection systems is typically required. Exceptional communication, critical thinking, and perseverance are standout soft skills for this role. These abilities are crucial for solving complex cases, maintaining legal integrity, and ensuring public safety.

What challenges do detective investigators face when working on complex cases?

Detective Investigators often encounter challenges such as managing large volumes of evidence, coordinating with multiple agencies, and maintaining case confidentiality. Complex cases can require extensive hours and adaptability as new information emerges. Effective communication and strong analytical skills are essential, as investigators must collaborate closely with colleagues, forensic experts, and sometimes the public to solve cases efficiently.

What is the difference between Detective Investigator vs Police Officer?

AspectDetective InvestigatorPolice Officer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED, law enforcement academy, sometimes college degreeHigh school diploma or GED, law enforcement academy
Work EnvironmentInvestigative settings, offices, crime scenesPatrol, crime scenes, community interactions
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies, detective unitsPolice departments, law enforcement agencies
Common Search & ComparisonDetective Investigator vs Police Officer

Detective Investigators focus on solving crimes through investigation, research, and evidence analysis, often working in offices or at crime scenes. Police Officers perform patrol duties, respond to emergencies, and maintain public safety. While both roles require law enforcement training, Detective Investigators typically have specialized investigative skills, whereas Police Officers handle a broader range of duties in community policing.

How do I become a detective investigator?

To become a detective investigator, you typically need to complete a high school diploma or equivalent, gain experience as a police officer, and then apply for a detective position. Additional training, such as specialized courses in investigation techniques and certifications, can enhance your qualifications; strong analytical skills and knowledge of law enforcement procedures are essential.

Is it hard to become a detective investigator?

Becoming a detective investigator typically requires completing law enforcement training, gaining experience as a police officer, and passing specific exams or assessments. The process can be competitive and may take several years, depending on the department's requirements and the individual's qualifications. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of investigative techniques are essential for success in this role.

What do you need to be a detective investigator?

To become a detective investigator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant law enforcement experience, and completion of police academy training. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of investigative techniques are essential, and some roles may require specialized certifications or prior law enforcement work.
More about Detective Investigator jobs

What cities are hiring for Detective Investigator jobs?

Cities with the most Detective Investigator job openings:

What states have the most Detective Investigator jobs?

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

What are popular job titles related to Detective Investigator jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Detective Investigator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,325 per year, or $36.2 per hour.

Senior Detective Investigator

Staten Island, NY

City of New York
Public Administration • 10K+ employees

$75K - $82K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Conduct investigations on a wide variety of criminal matters including homicides, organized crime, narcotics, and other specified crimes.

  • Assist in transporting witnesses, conducting background checks, conducting surveillances, and helping with trial preparation.

  • Interview witnesses, arrange for witness protection, and perform other assigned duties related to criminal investigations.


City Of New York rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 81 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

628th of 858 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Job Description

RICHMOND COUNTY DISTRICT ATTORNEY
The men and women of the Richmond County District Attorney's office work each day in partnership with Law Enforcement and the people of Staten Island to pursue justice for victims of crime, to prevent crime in all its forms, and to promote the safety and well-being of all citizens of our Borough.
THE ROLE
The Richmond County District Attorney (RCDA) is seeking veteran law enforcement professionals for the position of Senior Detective Investigator. The responsibilities of the position include, but are not limited to the following:
- Conduct investigations on a wide variety of matters, including but not limited to: cold case homicides; organized crime; narcotics; identity theft; financial crimes; violent crime; special victim cases; domestic violence; welfare fraud; child abuse; gangs; hate crimes; firearms.
- Assist in transporting witnesses for grand jury/court appearances
- Conduct background checks for prospective RCDA employees.
- Conduct surveillances and assist prosecutors with trial preparation.
- Interview witnesses and arrange for witness protection at the direction of the Chief Investigator.
- Other duties as assigned.
PREFERRED SKILLS
- Three or more years of full-time, paid employment as defined in CPL 1.20, within the State of New York.
- Accredited police academy training.
- Certified in firearms proficiency.
- Extensive knowledge and investigative experience in one or more of the following areas: cold case homicides; organized crime; narcotics; identity theft; financial crimes; violent crime; special victim cases; domestic violence; welfare fraud; child abuse; gangs; hate crimes; firearms.
- Strong technical computer skills using a variety of applications for law enforcement use, including law enforcement photography and videotaping skills regarding, e.g., crime scenes, lineups, interrogations, victim injuries.
- Demonstrated understanding of criminal law and procedures with experience building cases and maintaining documentation to assist ADAs.
- Experience with providing status updates to supervisor and ability to present cases to prosecutors and leadership.
- Excellent communication skills with the ability to serve as a Liaison to other law enforcement agencies and/or other government institutions.
- Ability to work both independently and as a team to manage multiple projects.
- Familiarity with various media, e.g., extracting/downloading video footage from surveillance systems.
- Experience in installing a system for, and the execution of, eavesdropping warrants.
- Familiarity with CALEA; SYTECH system; Title III requirements.
CIVIL SERVICE TITLE: Senior Detective Investigator
SALARY RANGE: $75,877.00-$82,558.00 Commensurate with experience; full NYC benefits package
APPLICATION DEADLINE: Until filled
TO APPLY: ALL APPLICATIONS MUST BE SUBMITTED THROUGH THE NYC JOBS WEBSITE
City Employees - Click here and log in to ESS.
Non-City Employees - Go to https://a127-jobs.nyc.gov/
- Search for job ID number: 794048
- Click on the job business title: Senior Detective Investigator
- Click on "Apply Now" at the bottom of the posting
Please be advised that we are not accepting phone calls, emails, or mailed correspondence related to resumes or job applications. Candidates will only be contacted if selected for an interview.
The candidate selected for this position must be a resident of the City of New York or become a resident within 90 days of appointment.
Authorization to work in the United States is required for this position.
Sponsorship is not available for this position.
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.
SENIOR DETECTIVE INVESTIGATOR - 30827

Qualifications

1. An Associate degree or 60 credits from an accredited college, with specialization in police science, criminal justice or law enforcement and either one (1) year of full time satisfactory experience as a police officer or deputy sheriff of an authorized police department or sheriff's office or one (1) year of full time satisfactory experience performing criminal investigations in which field work comprised a substantial part of the duties; or
2. A four year high school diploma or its educational equivalent and either three (3) years of full time satisfactory experience as a police officer or duty sheriff or three (3) year of full time paid experience performing criminal investigations in which field work comprised a substantial part of the duties; or
3. A combination of education and/or experience which is equivalent to the requirements in "1" and "2" above. However, all candidates must a high school diploma or its equivalent.
Driver License Requirement: You must have a motor vehicle driver license valid in the State of New York at the time of appointment. This license must be maintained for the duration of your employment.

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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