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Homicide Investigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Investigator

Georgetown, CO · On-site

$86K - $124K/yr

Respond to crimes of arson, theft/burglary, assault, narcotics, suicide, and homicide. * Direct the investigations at the crime scene by acting as evidence custodian to preserve evidence, function as ...

A dedicated Cold Case Investigator would be able to assist in reviewing and cataloging Homicide and Sexual Assault cases that have been deemed cold to help locate and identify suitable cases to work ...

Cold Case Investigator

Bronx, NY · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

A dedicated Cold Case Investigator would be able to assist in reviewing and cataloging Homicide and Sexual Assault cases that have been deemed cold to help locate and identify suitable cases to work ...

A dedicated Cold Case Investigator would be able to assist in reviewing and cataloging Homicide and Sexual Assault cases that have been deemed cold to help locate and identify suitable cases to work ...

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Homicide Investigator information

See salary details

$32K

$75.3K

$131K

How much do homicide investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 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:

Infographic showing various Homicide Investigator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,325 per year, or $36.2 per hour.

Sidney Narcotics Investigator

Richland, MT • On-site

State of Montana
Public Administration • 11 - 50 employees

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


State Of Montana rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 54 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Division Overview:

Montana's Division of Criminal Investigation is a diverse public safety team of professionals who provide a full range of criminal investigative services to state, local, and tribal law enforcement.  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 critical law enforcement support.  The professionals within DCI are the lifeline of support for public safety.  With a doctrine of service, honor, and justice, this statewide organization provides the best in critical, accurate, and timely service to protect our citizens.

Job Overview:

   This position is a Criminal Investigator and coordinates and conducts investigations involving a broad       range of allegations of felony violations of the Montana Criminal Codes and other crimes referred from external agencies. Coordinates with several agencies to provide investigative, law enforcement, and criminal intelligence technical expertise for other agencies.

   This position works within the Narcotics Bureau of the Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) and is responsible for the coordination and execution of criminal investigations into allegations of felony violations of the Montana Criminal Codes - specifically those related to narcotics enforcement; work in an undercover, proactive capacity to develop cases that primarily involve violations of state and federal dangerous drug laws as well as other felony criminal violations. Narcotics Investigators respond to meth labs and provide drug-related training to many different audiences statewide.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • High school diploma.
  • Three years of criminal, investigative, or law-enforcement experience.
  • Firearms' training is mandated for peace officer requirements and liability.

  • Current POST Law Enforcement Basic Certificate (or equivalent from another state) required.

  • Must meet eligibility requirements for the POST Law Enforcement Intermediate Certificate.

  • Valid driver's license. 

  • Other combinations of education and experience will be considered on a case-by-case basis. 

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Public Administration, Criminal Justice, Sociology, Psychology, or closely related with coursework in criminal justice field from an accredited college or university.
  • Five (5) years of investigative experience with a minimum of two (2) years as a full-time investigator handling a variety of felony investigations comparable to those a state agent is expected to handle.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: 

  • The position requires extensive knowledge of law enforcement; investigative procedures; planning; report writing, coordinating the activities of multiple agencies and jurisdictions; developing, conducting and presenting complex long-term cases; criminal procedures, collection and rules of evidence, criminal justice information and privacy/security regulations, family services, Social Services and Institutions and law enforcement and investigation including criminal justice information.  Knowledgeable, proficient, and skilled in the use of firearms.  Knowledgeable regarding proper procedures for writing and executing search warrants, investigative subpoenas, and forfeiture documents. 

  • Skill in using all types of complicated equipment necessary to conduct criminal investigations; conducting undercover investigations; making correct/legal and appropriate decisions in highly stressful situations; establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with employees; communicating effectively verbally and in writing; and in reviewing case plans and information.   Skilled in drafting and presenting search warrants, investigative subpoenas and forfeiture documents to prosecutors and judges for review and issuance.

  • Skill in examining all types of evidence to determine its relevance to the prosecution of the case and to properly document its relationship to the case and criminals.  Procedures followed include standards of law enforcement and criminal investigation profession, best practices in investigation, and federal, state, and local regulations.

  • Knowledge of Montana Codes Annotated (MCA) dealing with crimes (MCA, Title 45, "Crimes"), criminal procedure (MCA, Title 46, "Criminal Procedure"), rules of evidence (MCA, Title 26, Chapter 10, "Montana Rules of Evidence"), seizures related to contraband, criminal justice information and privacy/security regulations (MCA, Title 44, Chapter 5, "Criminal Justice Information"); family services (MCA, Title 52); Social Services and Institutions (MCA, Title 53); CFR 18 and 42; ARMs; and law enforcement and investigation including criminal justice information and rules of evidence. 

Special Instructions:

The selection procedures to be used in evaluating the applicant's qualification may include, but are not limited to, an evaluation of the resume and cover letter, a structured interview, performance test, academic transcripts, reference/background checks and fingerprint checks.

Additional materials, references or information submitted by the applicant, but not requested, will not be considered.

Successful applicant(s) will be subject to:

  • Criminal History Fingerprint Check

  • Intensive Background Check

  • Driving History

  • Psychological Evaluation

  •  Drug Testing

  • Medical Evaluation

HOW TO APPLY:

 To be considered for this position, you must attach a resume at the time of application.

Tip: When attaching your resume, you must mark the attachment as a "Relevant File".

 Your Resume: Please include all work experience as well as job duties that demonstrate your qualifications for this position.  Include dates of employment (month & year- start & end) and the reason you left each job.

 A complete online state application is not required.  To initiate an application, attach the resume to be considered for this position.  Failure to attach resume will result in an incomplete application that will not be considered further.

 Only electronic applications will be accepted.  Materials submitted but not requested will not be considered in the selection process.

All documents for Veteran or Disability preference must be received or date stamped by the closing date.  Please submit preference documentation to Terri Christianson at Terese.Christianson@mt.gov via File Transfer Service .

To request an accommodation with the application process, please contact the HR office.

Your service is rewarded with competitive compensation and generous State of Montana Benefits. 

       Medical, dental and vision coverage

       Retirement plans

       Generous paid vacation, sick and holidays

       Pre-tax Flexibility Spending Accounts

       Employee Assistance Program

State of Montana employment may qualify for student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program.

This Organization Participates in E-Verify.

Minorities are under-represented in this position and are encouraged to apply.


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