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Homicide Investigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

alphanumeric

$75 - $125/hr

Death and Homicide Investigations * Sexual Assault Investigations * Robbery Investigations * Hotel/Motel Interdiction * Financial Crimes Investigations * Leadership & Supervision * First Line ...

Montana

Sidney Narcotics Investigator

Sidney, MT · On-site

From homicide investigations to illegal narcotics, criminal records, cybercrime, human trafficking, missing persons, or through training public safety officers, DCI serves as the hub in providing ...

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Homicide Investigator information

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$32K

$75.3K

$131K

How much do homicide investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for homicide 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 homicide investigator?

Homicide investigators are specialized law enforcement officers who are responsible for investigating deaths that are suspected to be the result of homicide. They gather and analyze evidence from crime scenes, interview witnesses and suspects, and work closely with forensic experts to solve cases. Their goal is to identify suspects, gather sufficient evidence for prosecution, and ultimately help bring justice for the victims and their families. Homicide investigators must possess strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work under pressure, as solving these cases can be complex and emotionally challenging.

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

To thrive as a Homicide Investigator, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a background in criminal justice or law enforcement, often supported by police academy training and relevant certifications. Familiarity with forensic analysis tools, crime scene processing techniques, and case management systems is typically required. Exceptional communication, resilience, and critical thinking are vital soft skills for interviewing witnesses, managing stress, and working collaboratively. These competencies ensure thorough investigations, accurate evidence handling, and successful resolution of complex cases.

What are some common challenges faced by homicide investigators during complex cases?

Homicide investigators often face challenges such as managing high-pressure situations, working long or irregular hours, and piecing together limited or conflicting evidence. Complex cases may require coordinating with multiple agencies, handling sensitive information discreetly, and communicating effectively with victims' families. Investigators must remain detail-oriented and persistent, as unraveling motives and timelines can be time-consuming and emotionally taxing, but teamwork and support from colleagues are crucial in overcoming these obstacles.

What is the difference between Homicide Investigator vs Crime Scene Investigator?

AspectHomicide InvestigatorCrime Scene Investigator
Required CredentialsPolice academy training, law enforcement certification, detective experienceForensic training, crime scene processing certification, often law enforcement background
Work EnvironmentInvestigates homicide scenes, interviews witnesses, works closely with law enforcementCollects and analyzes physical evidence at crime scenes, works in labs and on-site
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies, police departmentsForensic labs, law enforcement agencies, crime scene units

Homicide Investigators focus on solving murder cases through investigation, interviews, and case analysis, often working directly in the field. Crime Scene Investigators specialize in collecting and analyzing physical evidence from crime scenes, supporting investigations with forensic data. Both roles require law enforcement background and specialized training, but their primary responsibilities differ within the criminal justice process.

Are homicide investigators in demand?

Homicide investigators are in steady demand due to ongoing needs for criminal investigations and public safety. Employment opportunities often depend on law enforcement budgets, crime rates, and required specialized training such as crime scene analysis and forensic skills.

How long does it take to be a homicide investigator?

Becoming a homicide investigator typically requires first serving as a police officer, which often takes 1-2 years of academy training and field experience. After gaining experience, officers can apply for detective or investigator roles, with additional training or specialized courses sometimes needed; overall, it can take several years to reach this position.

Is it hard to become a homicide investigator?

Becoming a homicide investigator typically requires prior law enforcement experience, such as working as a police officer, and often involves specialized training in crime scene investigation and forensic analysis. The process can be competitive and demanding, requiring strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to handle stressful situations.
More about Homicide Investigator jobs

What cities are hiring for Homicide Investigator jobs?

Cities with the most Homicide Investigator job openings:

What states have the most Homicide Investigator jobs?

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

What are popular job titles related to Homicide Investigator jobs?

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

Homicide Investigator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Homicide Investigator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,325 per year, or $36.2 per hour.

Criminal Justice Training Instructor

Jamestown, NC • On-site

Alphanumeric Systems Inc
Health Care and Social Assistance • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Alphanumeric Systems Incexternal

$75 - $100/hr

Other

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Alphanumeric is hiring a part time Criminal Justice Training Instructor to work in Greensboro, NC.

Pay Range: $75 - $100

The Criminal Justice Training Instructor is responsible for planning, developing, and delivering advanced law enforcement training courses for sworn law enforcement officers, investigators, supervisors, and other public safety professionals. The instructor must possess significant practical experience in criminal investigations, leadership, or specialized law enforcement disciplines while demonstrating exceptional classroom presentation skills.

The successful candidate will provide engaging, scenario-based instruction that combines current investigative techniques, legal requirements, best practices, and real-world case studies to enhance officer knowledge.

Key Attributes and Responsibilities:
  • Deliver instructor-led classroom training in assigned Criminal Justice Program courses.
  • Develop lesson plans, presentations, exercises, and practical learning activities.
  • Present current investigative techniques consistent with federal, state, and local laws.
  • Incorporate real-world case studies, photographs, videos, and practical examples into classroom instruction.
  • Facilitate classroom discussions and encourage participant engagement.
  • Evaluate student learning through participation, exercises, and assessments where applicable.
  • Maintain instructional materials that reflect current investigative methods and legal standards.
  • Coordinate with GTCC Criminal Justice Program staff regarding scheduling, curriculum updates, and course requirements.
  • Maintain a professional learning environment while representing the College in a positive manner.
Required Skills/Abilities:

Candidates should possess expertise in one or more of the following instructional areas:

  • Criminal Investigations
  • Crime Scene Investigations
  • Death and Homicide Investigations
  • Sexual Assault Investigations
  • Robbery Investigations
  • Hotel/Motel Interdiction
  • Financial Crimes Investigations
  • Leadership & Supervision
  • First Line Supervisor Development
  • Leadership Development
  • Employee Mentoring
  • Community Policing
  • Tactical Crime Control
  • Community Engagement
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice or closely related field preferred.
  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible law enforcement experience.
  • Experience serving in investigative, supervisory, command, or specialized enforcement assignments.
  • Previous experience teaching adult learners in a law enforcement or public safety environment.
  • Strong classroom presentation and facilitation skills.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications:

Preference will be given to candidates with experience in one or more of the following:

  • Criminal Investigations Division (CID)
  • Homicide Investigations
  • Crime Scene Processing
  • Financial Crimes
  • Narcotics Investigations
  • Sexual Assault Investigations
  • Patrol Supervision
  • Criminal Intelligence
  • Community Policing
  • Leadership Development
  • Police Training Academies
  • State or Federal Law Enforcement Agencies
Required Subject Matter Expertise

Depending upon the course assignment, instructors should demonstrate expertise in topics including:

  • Basic Crime Scene Investigations
  • Bloodstain Pattern Analysis
  • DNA Collection and Preservation
  • Crime Scene Photography
  • Fingerprint Identification
  • Trajectory Analysis
  • Suspect Interviews
  • Crime Scene Documentation
  • Death & Homicide Investigations
  • Cause and Manner of Death
  • Time of Death Estimation
  • Autopsy Procedures
  • Death Scene Reconstruction
  • Bloodstain Pattern Analysis
  • Wound Pattern Analysis
  • Court Preparation
  • Courtroom Testimony
Hotel/Motel Interdiction:
  • Search and Seizure
  • Reasonable Suspicion
  • Probable Cause
  • Informant Development
  • Surveillance
  • Consent Searches
  • Drug Identification
  • Court Documentation
  • Financial Crimes
  • Fraud Investigations
  • Financial Instruments
  • Financial Records Analysis
  • Search Warrants
  • Scam Investigations
  • Forensic Accounting Concepts
Leadership Courses
  • Leadership Theory
  • Emotional Intelligence
  • First-Line Supervision
  • Accountability
  • Human Relations
  • Team Building
  • Coaching
  • Mentoring
  • Performance Improvement
Community Policing
  • Community Engagement
  • Problem-Oriented Policing
  • S.A.R.A. Model
  • Crime Prevention Strategies
  • Police-Community Partnerships
Professional Certifications (Preferred)

One or more of the following:

  • General Instructor Certification (State Criminal Justice Standards)
  • Certified Law Enforcement Instructor
  • Crime Scene Investigator Certification
  • Homicide Investigation Training
  • FBI National Academy (preferred)
  • DEA, ATF, or Federal Investigative Training
  • Leadership Development Certifications
  • Instructor Development Certification

Equivalent combinations of education, experience, and professional certifications will be considered.

Education and/or Experience
  • Outstanding public speaking ability
  • Adult learning principles
  • Scenario-based instruction
  • Critical thinking
  • Report writing
  • Investigative interviewing
  • Evidence handling
  • Courtroom testimony
  • Leadership coaching
  • Strong organizational skills
  • Ability to simplify complex investigative topics
Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to stand for extended periods while instructing.
  • Ability to operate audiovisual equipment and classroom technology.
  • Ability to travel to instructional locations as assigned.
Deliverables

The instructor shall:

  • Teach assigned courses in accordance with approved curriculum.
  • Provide professional classroom instruction.
  • Utilize multimedia, case studies, photographs, and videos when appropriate.
  • Maintain current knowledge of investigative techniques and applicable legal updates.
  • Submit attendance records and required course documentation.
  • Conduct training in a professional, ethical, and unbiased manner.
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