Entry Level Missing Persons Investigator information
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$51.5K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$50K - $59K
24% of jobs
The median wage is $63.5K / yr.
$59K - $68K
9% of jobs
$86.8K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$86K - $95K
3% of jobs
How much do entry level missing persons investigator jobs pay per year?
As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level missing persons 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.
An Entry Level Missing Persons Investigator assists in locating and recovering individuals who have gone missing. Their responsibilities typically include gathering information, conducting interviews, searching public records, coordinating with law enforcement, and following leads to help find missing persons. They often work under the supervision of experienced investigators and may be employed by private investigation firms, law enforcement agencies, or non-profit organizations. Strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills are important for this role.
To thrive as an Entry Level Missing Persons Investigator, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a background in criminal justice or law enforcement, often supported by an associate's or bachelor's degree. Familiarity with investigative databases, case management software, and public records systems is typically required. Excellent communication, critical thinking, and empathy are important soft skills for gathering information and working with families or other agencies. These skills and qualities are crucial for efficiently locating missing individuals and ensuring thorough, sensitive investigations.
Entry-level missing persons investigators often encounter challenges such as handling emotionally charged situations, managing large amounts of information, and coordinating with multiple agencies. To overcome these obstacles, it's important to develop strong communication skills, stay organized with case files, and seek guidance from experienced colleagues. Building rapport with families and collaborating effectively with law enforcement and social services are also key to successfully resolving cases and gaining valuable experience in the field.
What are the most commonly searched types of Missing Persons Investigator jobs?
The most popular types of Missing Persons Investigator jobs are: