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Detective Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Archuleta County

Detective

Pagosa Springs, CO

This person performs professional and technical investigative work required to collect facts and determine circumstances relative to petty, misdemeanor, and felony criminal offenses committed within ...

Boscov's

Retail Loss Prevention Detective

Nottingham, MD · On-site

$16/hr

Retail Loss Prevention Detective Use your experience in retail loss prevention to launch an exciting career as a Loss Prevention Detective with one of the nation's leading retailers! Boscov's is a ...

Onslow County

Detective

Jacksonville, NC · On-site

$64K - $83K/yr

Performs intermediate protective service work in the Sheriff's Office, investigating adult and juvenile criminal activity, including crimes against persons, property, drugs, and other specialized ...

City of Stockbridge

Detective

Stockbridge, GA · On-site

Description This position is responsible for the investigation of reported or suspected criminal activity and the prosecution of federal, state, and local laws. The Investigator performs a variety of ...

Career Search

Detective

Stockbridge, GA

This position is responsible for the investigation of reported or suspected criminal activity and the prosecution of federal, state, and local laws. The Investigator performs a variety of duties ...

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All JobsDetective Jobs

Detective information

See salary details

$29K

$61.9K

$98.5K

How much do detective jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for detective in the United States is $61,905.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,500.00 and $71,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to get a job as a detective?

To become a detective, candidates typically need to start as police officers by completing police academy training and gaining experience in law enforcement. Advancement to detective usually requires passing promotional exams, demonstrating investigative skills, and often having several years of service. Additional qualifications such as a background check, good physical condition, and sometimes specialized training or certifications are also important.

What jobs make $3,000 a day?

High-paying jobs that can earn $3,000 a day include specialized roles such as top-level corporate executives, certain surgeons, and highly experienced private investigators or detectives working on complex cases. These positions often require advanced skills, extensive experience, and sometimes certification or licensing. Income varies based on industry, location, and workload.

What Do Detectives Do?

A police detective is a police officer who works to gather evidence and facts for criminal cases. A police detective’s duties include interviewing potential suspects, examining records and apprehending criminals. These police officers will work on specific cases until they are solved or dropped.

What is the difference between Detective vs Police Officer?

AspectDetectivePolice Officer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, police academy, detective training, sometimes college degreeHigh school diploma, police academy
Work EnvironmentInvestigative settings, offices, crime scenesPatrol, crime scenes, community interactions
Employer & Industry UsageLaw enforcement agencies, detective bureausPolice departments, law enforcement agencies
Common Search & ComparisonInvestigative work, case solvingPatrol duties, maintaining public safety

Detectives focus on investigating crimes, gathering evidence, and solving cases, often working in offices or at crime scenes. Police officers perform patrol duties, respond to emergencies, and maintain public safety. While both roles are part of law enforcement, detectives typically require additional investigative training and work more in investigative settings, whereas police officers handle a broader range of community policing tasks.

What are some common challenges detectives face when working on complex cases?

Detectives often encounter challenges such as piecing together incomplete or conflicting information, managing multiple leads simultaneously, and working under tight deadlines. Additionally, they must collaborate with various departments, including forensic teams and legal professionals, while maintaining clear communication with victims or witnesses. These challenges require detectives to be resourceful, detail-oriented, and persistent in order to solve cases effectively.

What are detectives?

Detectives are law enforcement professionals who investigate crimes by gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and following leads to solve cases. They often specialize in particular types of crime, such as homicide, fraud, or missing persons. Detectives work closely with other police officers and may testify in court about their findings. Their job requires strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills. Detectives play a crucial role in ensuring justice and public safety.

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

To thrive as a Detective, you need strong investigative skills, critical thinking, and a background in law enforcement, typically supported by police academy training and relevant experience. Proficiency in evidence management systems, forensic tools, and case management software is usually required. Outstanding communication, attention to detail, and problem-solving abilities help detectives excel in interviewing witnesses and building cases. These skills are vital for effectively solving crimes, ensuring justice, and maintaining public trust.

What is the highest paid detective job?

The highest paid detective jobs are typically in federal agencies such as FBI special agents or criminal investigators, who often earn higher salaries due to specialized skills, security clearances, and extensive experience. These roles may also involve leadership positions or work in high-stakes investigations, which can significantly increase compensation.

What are the different types of detective jobs?

Detective jobs can be categorized into various types, including criminal investigators, homicide detectives, fraud investigators, cyber detectives, and private investigators. Each type specializes in different areas of investigation and may require specific skills, certifications, or security clearances. Detectives often work in law enforcement agencies, private firms, or as independent consultants, using tools like forensic analysis and surveillance techniques.
More about Detective jobs
What cities are hiring for Detective jobs? Cities with the most Detective job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Detective jobs? The most popular types of Detective jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Detective jobs? The top employers for Detective jobs are:
What states have the most Detective jobs? States with the most job openings for Detective jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Detective jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Detective jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Detective jobs? For Detective jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Detective jobs near you
Infographic showing various Detective job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,905 per year, or $29.8 per hour.

White County Sheriff's Office Detective

White County Government

Sparta, TN • On-site

$24.48/hr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

The White County Sheriff's Office is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Detective. Detectives are responsible for conducting investigations into criminal activities, collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses and suspects, preparing cases for prosecution, and working closely with prosecutors and other law enforcement agencies. They may also assist with special assignments and general patrol duties as needed.

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