Missing Person information
See salary details
$10.10 - $13.20
9% of jobs
$14.32 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$13.20 - $16.30
46% of jobs
$18.19 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$16.30 - $19.41
34% of jobs
$19.41 - $22.51
4% of jobs
$22.51 - $25.61
1% of jobs
$25.61 - $28.72
1% of jobs
$28.72 - $31.82
1% of jobs
$31.82 - $34.92
0% of jobs
$34.92 - $38.02
1% of jobs
$38.02 - $41.13
1% of jobs
$41.13 - $44.23
2% of jobs
How much do missing person jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for missing person in the United States is $19.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
A 'Missing Person' refers to an individual whose whereabouts are unknown and whose safety or well-being may be at risk. This term is used when someone has disappeared unexpectedly and their location cannot be determined by family, friends, or authorities. Cases of missing persons can involve children, adults, or seniors and may occur due to various reasons, including accidents, mental health issues, abductions, or voluntary absence. Prompt reporting to law enforcement is crucial to increase the chances of safely locating a missing person.
To thrive as a Missing Person Investigator, you need strong analytical skills, knowledge of investigative procedures, and experience in law enforcement or criminal justice. Familiarity with case management systems, forensic tools, and database searches is typically required, along with relevant certifications or police training. Excellent communication, empathy, and persistence are crucial soft skills for interacting with families and collaborating with agencies. These skills are essential for efficiently locating missing persons and supporting affected individuals during critical situations.
Missing Persons Investigators often encounter challenges such as limited or unreliable witness information, time-sensitive evidence, and emotional stress from working closely with affected families. They need to coordinate with multiple agencies, manage large volumes of information, and adapt to rapidly changing circumstances. Building trust with both the public and the families involved is crucial, and persistence, attention to detail, and strong communication skills are essential for successfully resolving cases.
To become a missing person investigator, typically one needs a background in law enforcement or criminal justice, along with skills in investigation, interviewing, and evidence collection. Relevant experience, certifications, and knowledge of investigative tools are often required, and the role may involve working with law enforcement agencies or private investigation firms.
More about Missing Person jobs What cities are hiring for Missing Person jobs?
Cities with the most Missing Person job openings:
What states have the most Missing Person jobs?
States with the most job openings for Missing Person jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Missing Person jobs look for?
The top searched job categories for Missing Person jobs are:
