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Entry Level Crime Scene Investigator Jobs in Decatur, AL

Military Security Officer

Triana, AL

$15.75 - $20/hr

Enlisted Active This role is open to both entry-level applicants and candidates with prior ... and Criminal Investigator; career-long development through leadership courses, warfare ...

Military Security Officer

Town Creek, AL

$18.25 - $23.25/hr

Enlisted Active This role is open to both entry-level applicants and candidates with prior ... and Criminal Investigator; career-long development through leadership courses, warfare ...

Military Security Officer

Cullman, AL

$15.25 - $19.50/hr

Enlisted Active This role is open to both entry-level applicants and candidates with prior ... and Criminal Investigator; career-long development through leadership courses, warfare ...

Military Security Officer

Falkville, AL

$15.25 - $19.50/hr

Enlisted Active This role is open to both entry-level applicants and candidates with prior ... and Criminal Investigator; career-long development through leadership courses, warfare ...

Military Security Officer

Arab, AL

$15.75 - $20.25/hr

Enlisted Active This role is open to both entry-level applicants and candidates with prior ... and Criminal Investigator; career-long development through leadership courses, warfare ...

Military Security Officer

Trinity, AL

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

Enlisted Active This role is open to both entry-level applicants and candidates with prior ... and Criminal Investigator; career-long development through leadership courses, warfare ...

Military Security Officer

Lexington, AL

$15.75 - $20/hr

Enlisted Active This role is open to both entry-level applicants and candidates with prior ... and Criminal Investigator; career-long development through leadership courses, warfare ...

Military Security Officer

Arab, AL

$15.75 - $20.25/hr

Enlisted Active This role is open to both entry-level applicants and candidates with prior ... and Criminal Investigator; career-long development through leadership courses, warfare ...

Military Security Officer

Rogersville, AL

$16 - $20.50/hr

Enlisted Active This role is open to both entry-level applicants and candidates with prior ... and Criminal Investigator; career-long development through leadership courses, warfare ...

Military Security Officer

West Point, AL

$15.25 - $19.50/hr

Enlisted Active This role is open to both entry-level applicants and candidates with prior ... and Criminal Investigator; career-long development through leadership courses, warfare ...

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Entry Level Crime Scene Investigator information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$30.4K

$53.3K

$79.2K

How much do entry level crime scene investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level crime scene investigator in Decatur, AL is $53,337.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,400.00 and $60,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level crime scene investigator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Crime Scene Investigator, you generally need a background in forensic science, criminal justice, or a related field, often supported by a bachelor's degree. Familiarity with evidence collection tools, digital photography, and crime scene documentation software is typically required, and specialized training or certification in crime scene investigation can be advantageous. Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication skills help you accurately process scenes and collaborate with law enforcement teams. These skills and qualifications are critical for ensuring the integrity and reliability of evidence, which directly impacts criminal investigations and prosecutions.

How to get hired as a crime scene investigator?

To get hired as a crime scene investigator, candidates typically need a relevant degree such as criminal justice, forensic science, or a related field, along with experience in law enforcement or forensic work. Certification in crime scene investigation and proficiency with tools like fingerprint analysis and evidence collection are also valuable. Applying to law enforcement agencies or forensic laboratories and demonstrating strong attention to detail and analytical skills are essential steps in the hiring process.

What are some typical challenges an entry level crime scene investigator might face in their first year on the job?

As an entry level crime scene investigator, you may encounter challenges such as adapting to irregular hours, handling emotionally intense scenes, and learning to meticulously document and preserve evidence under pressure. You'll also need to quickly become proficient with specialized equipment and follow strict protocols while working alongside law enforcement and forensic teams. Building confidence in your technical skills and maintaining attention to detail, even during long or overnight shifts, is key to success in this role.

What is the difference between Entry Level Crime Scene Investigator vs Forensic Technician?

AspectEntry Level Crime Scene InvestigatorForensic Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate's; some roles prefer criminal justice or forensic science degreesHigh school diploma; some roles require associate's or bachelor's in forensic science or related fields
Work EnvironmentCrime scenes, outdoor and indoor locations, often in unpredictable conditionsLaboratories, crime labs, or field sites; more controlled environment
Employer & Industry UsageLaw enforcement agencies, crime labs, forensic unitsCrime labs, forensic laboratories, law enforcement support units

While both roles support forensic investigations, Entry Level Crime Scene Investigators primarily collect evidence at crime scenes, whereas Forensic Technicians analyze evidence in labs. The roles often overlap in credentials and work environment, but their focus differs—fieldwork versus laboratory analysis.

Is it hard to get into crime scene investigation?

Crime Scene Investigator entry-level positions typically require relevant education such as a criminal justice or forensic science degree, along with training in evidence collection and documentation. Competition can be high, and candidates often need to demonstrate strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and sometimes certification or experience in law enforcement or forensic techniques.

Is it easy to get hired as a crime scene investigator entry level?

Getting hired as an entry-level crime scene investigator typically requires relevant education such as a degree in criminal justice, forensic science, or a related field, along with some experience or training in evidence collection and processing. Competition can be high, and employers often seek candidates with strong attention to detail, good communication skills, and certifications like crime scene processing courses. Building a solid foundation in forensic techniques and gaining practical experience can improve employment prospects.

How to become a crime scene investigator entry level with no experience?

To become an entry-level crime scene investigator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some agencies preferring or requiring an associate's or bachelor's degree in criminal justice, forensic science, or a related field. Gaining knowledge of crime scene protocols, evidence collection, and forensic tools through coursework or training programs can be helpful, and obtaining certifications such as the Crime Scene Certification from the International Association for Identification may improve prospects. Prior experience in law enforcement, forensic science, or related fields can be advantageous but is not always required for entry-level positions.

How to become an entry level crime scene investigator with no experience?

To become an entry-level crime scene investigator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some agencies preferring or requiring a college degree in criminal justice, forensic science, or a related field. Gaining knowledge of crime scene processing, evidence collection, and forensic tools through coursework or training programs is beneficial, and obtaining certifications such as the Crime Scene Certification can improve prospects. Prior experience in law enforcement, forensic science, or related fields can be advantageous but is not always required for entry-level positions.

Is it hard to get into entry level crime scene investigation?

Entry level crime scene investigator positions typically require a relevant degree in criminal justice, forensic science, or a related field, along with strong attention to detail and analytical skills. Competition can be high, and candidates often need to complete specialized training or certifications, such as crime scene processing courses, to improve their chances of hiring.

Is it easy to get hired as an entry level crime scene investigator?

Entry level crime scene investigator positions can be competitive, often requiring relevant education such as a degree in criminal justice or forensic science, along with some experience or training in evidence collection and processing. Strong attention to detail, knowledge of crime scene protocols, and certifications like crime scene processing courses can improve hiring prospects, but the process may still involve rigorous screening and background checks.

What does an entry level crime scene investigator do?

An entry-level crime scene investigator (CSI) identifies and collects evidence at a crime scene. In this role, your job is to document everything in the area of suspected criminal activity by taking pictures, recording measurements, and gathering information that may not be captured by images, such as weather conditions. As an entry-level employee, you undergo on-the-job training and work under the supervision of senior crime scene staff members and investigators. You may shadow veteran investigators for a while, observing how they extract and process evidence at the crime scene and back at the office; it is crucial to preserve evidence properly to ensure it does not become tainted.

What are the most commonly searched types of Crime Scene Investigator jobs in Decatur, AL? The most popular types of Crime Scene Investigator jobs in Decatur, AL are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Crime Scene Investigator jobs in Decatur, AL? For Entry Level Crime Scene Investigator jobs in Decatur, AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Crime Scene Investigator jobs in Decatur, AL look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Crime Scene Investigator jobs in Decatur, AL are:
What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Entry Level Crime Scene Investigator jobs? Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Entry Level Crime Scene Investigator job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Crime Scene Investigator job openings in Decatur, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,337 per year, or $25.6 per hour.

Police Officer (Non-Certified and Certified)

City of Decatur, AL

Decatur, AL

$53K - $83K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

Job Summary This is law enforcement work in the protection of life and property through patrol, investigation of a specialized nature, assistance to citizens, arrest and detention, and related activities. Work involves prevention of crime, the enforcement of laws and ordinances, investigations of a specialized nature, crime scene investigations, apprehension of criminals, internal investigations, special assignments, patrolling of assigned areas, enforcement of traffic regulations, accident and crime scene investigations. Work involves an element of personal danger and investigator/officers must be able to act without direct supervision and must be able to exercise independent judgment in meeting complex emergency situations.

Work is performed with independence within established policies and procedures, and is reviewed by superiors through observation of the effectiveness of work performed and results through reports, observations, and discussions. HIRING & SELECTION STEPS: Supplemental Application - Background Packet and Required Documents: Candidates who are selected to move to the next step in the hiring process will be required to complete a Supplemental Application - Background Packet. You will receive an email from Guardian with specific instructions and deadlines to complete the online Supplemental Application - Background Packet.

To remain in consideration, candidates must submit the required Supplemental Application - Background Packet by the stated deadline. Written Assessment & Physical Agility/Ability Test (PAT): Candidates who complete and return the required Supplemental Application - Background Packet will be invited to attend and complete the mandatory Written Assessment and PAT. Further details regarding this step in the process will be emailed to you.

Fingerprinting & Background Investigation: A thorough background investigation will be conducted on all candidates that attend the Written Assessment/PAT. Formal In-Person Panel Interview: Candidates that complete the written assessment and pass the mandatory PAT may be scheduled for a formal in-person oral interview. Contingent Offer of Employment: Candidates who successfully complete all previous steps in the hiring and selection process may receive an offer of employment that is contingent on successful completion of all pre-employment screening processes required for the Police Office position.

The required pre-employment screenings are as follows: Pre-employment Physical, Drug & Alcohol Screening, Background Investigation, Polygraph Examination, Psychological Exam, Reference Checks, and Employment/Education Verifications. Depending on when you apply online, the duration of the Police Officer hiring process may take up to 6 months. Major Duties Patrols the city to detect and deter criminal activity and traffic violations.

Responds to calls for service, including domestic disputes, assaults, burglaries, traffic accidents, lost or missing persons searches, public service duties, stranded motorists, and others. Conducts preliminary investigations into traffic accidents and other incidents, including interviewing victims, complainants and witnesses, gathering information and evidence, and securing crime scenes. Apprehends, arrests, and processes offenders, including fugitives; subpoenas witnesses.

Provides assistance and backup support to other officers and emergency service providers as necessary. Assists motorists. Provides traffic direction as needed for events such as parades, funerals, events, and school crossings.

Testifies in judicial proceedings as necessary. Serves court orders. Transports prisoners.

Provides security for Municipal Court. Completes all required reports and forms, including accident and incident reports. Inspects and maintains assigned patrol car, uniform, and equipment.

Performs specialized duties as assigned. Performs related duties. Minimum Qualifications High school diploma from a school accredited by a regional accrediting agency recognized by the U.S

Department of Education or GED certificate issued by the appropriate state agency. In addition to possession of a valid high school diploma or General Educational Development (GED) certificate, the Basic Ability Test (BAT) is required of all applicants. Individuals who are required to take the ACT WorkKeys Assessment, adopted as the official Basic Ability Test (BAT) for law enforcement, may test at any Alabama Community College within the State.

The ACT WorkKeys Assessment is available nationwide. A fee of $45, payable to the community college, is required prior to testing. Should an applicant fail any segment of the three-segment test, the applicant is allowed to re-take that segment for an additional fee.

For complete information relating to the BAT and ACT WorkKeys Assessment requirements please read the entire text of Chapter Two (2) of the Alabama (APOSTC) Administrative Code, as amended. Also review the "Frequently Asked Questions" section of this website (https://www.apostc.alabama.gov/) under "What is the Basic Ability Test (BAT). Candidates must also possess a valid U.S

Driver's License; minimum of 20 years of age provided applicant turns 21 years of age prior to Police Academy graduation; United States citizenship; no conviction of a felony, or a misdemeanor involving force or violence, force related to domestic violence, or a crime of moral turpitude, perjury, or false statement. If an applicant has been a member of the armed forces of the United States, the discharge must be under honorable conditions. Candidates must have the ability to deal firmly and courteously with the public.

Ability to analyze situations quickly and objectively, and to determine proper courses of action to be taken. Ability to obtain information through interview and interrogation. Ability to give credible testimony in court.

Ability to speak and write effectively. Skill in using a computer and related equipment including basic typing and keyboarding skills. Necessary Special Requirements: Must meet specific requirements as stipulated by the Alabama Peace Officers Standards and Training Commission (APOSTC) and other legal criteria as required.

Must meet all requirements set forth in APOST Rule 650-X-4-.02. Supplemental Information Guidelines State and federal laws, traffic laws, city ordinances, court rulings, constitutional guidelines, training manuals, and department policies and procedures. These guidelines are generally clear and specific, but may require some interpretation in application

Complexity/Scope of Work The work consists of related law enforcement duties. The varied nature of calls and the potential for emergencies contribute to the complexity of the work. The purpose of this position is to protect life and property and enforce federal, state, and local laws.

Successful performance contributes to the detection and deterrence of crime and to the protection of life and property. Contacts Contacts are typically with co-workers, other city employees, other emergency service providers, court system personnel, attorneys, judges, medical personnel, law enforcement officers from other agencies, and the general public. Contacts are typically to give or exchange information, provide services, interview persons, and resolve problems.

Physical Demands/Work Environment The work is typically performed while sitting, standing, walking, running, bending, crouching or stooping. The employee must occasionally lift light or heavy objects, use equipment requiring a high degree of dexterity, distinguish between shades of color, and use the physical force necessary to arrest and restrain persons. The work is performed indoors, in a vehicle, and outdoors.

The employee may be exposed to inclement weather, infectious diseases, and life-threatening situations. The work requires the use of protective clothing and devices. Supervisory and Management Responsibility None.