1

Missing Persons Investigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

Missing Persons Investigator information

See salary details

$32K

$75.3K

$131K

How much do missing persons investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for 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.

What are some common challenges faced by Missing Persons Investigators in their daily work?

Missing Persons Investigators often encounter challenges such as working with incomplete or contradictory information, managing emotionally distressed families, and balancing multiple ongoing cases with tight deadlines. The work can involve collaboration with law enforcement agencies, social services, and community organizations, requiring clear communication and persistence. Investigators must be adaptable, creative problem-solvers who can navigate legal and ethical guidelines while pursuing leads. Despite these challenges, the role is highly rewarding for those passionate about making a difference in people's lives and bringing missing individuals home.

Can I become an investigator without a degree?

Missing Persons Investigators typically do not require a college degree, but having a background in criminal justice, law enforcement, or related fields can be beneficial. Relevant skills such as interviewing, research, and familiarity with investigative tools are important, and some agencies may prefer or require certifications or prior law enforcement experience.

What does a missing person investigator do?

A missing person investigator is responsible for locating individuals who are reported missing by gathering information, interviewing witnesses, and analyzing evidence. They often work with law enforcement agencies, use tools like databases and surveillance, and may require specialized training or certifications to conduct thorough investigations.

What type of investigator makes the most money?

In the field of investigations, federal investigators such as FBI agents or DEA agents tend to earn higher salaries compared to local or private investigators. These roles often require specialized training, security clearances, and work in high-stakes environments, which contribute to their higher compensation levels.

How do I become a missing person investigator?

To become a missing person investigator, typically one needs a background in criminal justice, law enforcement, or a related field, along with experience in investigations. Relevant skills include interviewing, evidence collection, and familiarity with databases; some positions may require specialized training or certification. Entry often involves working for law enforcement agencies or private investigation firms, with a focus on case management and investigative techniques.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Missing Persons Investigator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Missing Persons Investigator, you need a solid background in investigative techniques, law enforcement, and criminal justice, often supported by relevant field experience and education. Familiarity with case management software, public records databases, and surveillance equipment is typically required, and certifications like those from the National Association of Missing and Exploited Children can be beneficial. Exceptional analytical thinking, attention to detail, and strong interpersonal communication skills help investigators interview witnesses and coordinate with various agencies. These skills are crucial for effectively gathering information, solving cases efficiently, and providing closure to affected families.

What does a Missing Persons Investigator do?

A Missing Persons Investigator specializes in locating individuals who have disappeared, whether due to criminal activity, personal reasons, or unforeseen circumstances. They gather and analyze evidence, interview witnesses, collaborate with law enforcement, and utilize databases and surveillance to track down missing persons. Investigators may work for law enforcement agencies, private firms, or as independent professionals. Their goal is to uncover the whereabouts of the missing individual and ensure their safety.

More about Missing Persons Investigator jobs
What cities are hiring for Missing Persons Investigator jobs? Cities with the most Missing Persons Investigator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Missing Persons Investigator jobs? The most popular types of Missing Persons Investigator jobs are:
What states have the most Missing Persons Investigator jobs? States with the most job openings for Missing Persons Investigator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Missing Persons Investigator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,325 per year, or $36.2 per hour.

Forensic Analyst - Missing Persons Unit

University of North Texas System

Fort Worth, TX โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Forensic Analyst - Missing Persons Unit
Job no: 514666
Work type: Staff
Location: Fort Worth
Categories: Data Science
Title: Forensic Analyst - Missing Persons Unit
Employee Classification: Forensic Analyst
Campus: University of North Texas Health at Fort Worth
Division: HSC-Div of Rsrch & Innovation
SubDivision-Department: HSC-Health Institutes & Centers
Department: HSC-Center for Human ID-304600
Job Location: Fort Worth
Salary: Grade 10
FTE: 1.000000
Retirement Eligibility: TRS Eligible
About Us - Values Overview
Welcome to the University of North Texas System. The UNT System includes the University of North Texas in Denton and Frisco, the University of North Texas at Dallas and UNT Dallas College of Law, and University of North Texas Health Fort Worth. We are the only university system based exclusively in the robust Dallas-Fort Worth region. We are growing with the North Texas region, employing more than 14,000 employees, educating a record 49,000+ students across our system, and awarding nearly 12,000 degrees each year.
We are one team comprised of individuals who are committed to excellence, curiosity and innovation. We are transforming lives and creating economic opportunity through education. We champion a people-first values-based culture where We Care about each other and those we serve. We believe that we are Better Together because we foster an environment of respect, belonging, and access for all. We demonstrate Courageous Integrity through setting exceptional standards and acting in the best interest of our communities. We are encouraged to Be Curious about opportunities for learning, creating, discovering, and innovating, and are encouraged to learn from failure. Show Your Fire by joining our team and exhibiting your passion and pride in your work as part of our UNT System team.
Learn more about the UNT System and how we live our values at www.UNTSystem.edu.
Department Summary
The Center for Human Identification (CHI) is an accredited forensic laboratory located on the campus of UNT Health at Fort Worth. With funding from the state of Texas and various Federal Government agencies, CHI supports DNA testing, forensic genetic genealogy, anthropological examinations, CODIS operations, forensic training, and cutting-edge research and development initiatives. CHI also manages the Texas Missing Persons DNA Database.
Position Overview
Responsibilities include conducting forensic DNA analysis on samples submitted to CHI for criminal and missing persons investigations to help establish the identity of the individual, maintaining accurate testing and quality control records, and providing legal testimony regarding the methods used and results obtained in the conducted forensic examinations.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, or any discipline related to forensic science; and completed coursework in molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, and statistics from an accredited university or program approved by the Texas Forensic Science Commission.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Strong attention to detail and accuracy
  • Communication skills
  • Works effectively and cooperatively with others
  • Uses critical thinking and logic to solve problems
  • Adjusts to changing priorities

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience in a forensic DNA lab
  • Experience working with autosomal STR, Y-STR, and mitochondrial DNA

Required License/Registration/Certifications
Applicant must be able to apply for and obtain a Forensic Analyst license from the Texas Forensic Science Commission (TFSC) before beginning any casework duties.
Job Duties
  • Conduct evidence examination and laboratory tests following all Quality Assurance Manual policies and Procedure Manual guidelines.
  • Perform autosomal STR, Y-STR, and mitochondrial DNA data analysis, interpretation, genetic comparisons, and report generation.
  • Technical and administrative review of casework.
  • Provide expert witness testimony as required.
  • Maintain proficiency in autosomal STR, Y-STR, and mitochondrial DNA analysis procedures and data analysis.
  • Complete the required hours of continuing education and review current scientific literature.
  • Participation in various validation and laboratory projects as needed.

Physical Requirements
  • Repeating motions that may include the wrists, hands and/or fingers.
  • Sedentary work that primarily involves sitting/standing.
  • Operating machinery and/or power tools.
  • Communicating with others to exchange information.

Environmental Hazards
  • Noisy environments.
  • Exposure to moving mechanical parts or vibration.
  • Exposure to fumes or airborne particles.

Work Schedule
M-F, 8:00a-5:00p, with possibility of a flex-schedule
Driving University Vehicle
No
Security Sensitive
This is a Security Sensitive Position.
Special Instructions
Applicants must submit a minimum of two professional references as part of their application. If needed, additional references can be added after the application has been submitted. โ€ข Applicants must submit a minimum of two professional references as part of their application. If needed, additional references can be added after the application has been submitted.
โ€ข Candidates are required to provide their transcript(s) with application.
โ€ข Employment at the Center for Human Identification is contingent upon your agreement to provide a DNA sample for purposes of quality control to detect sample contamination.
Benefits
For information regarding our Benefits, click here.
EEO Statement
The University of North Texas System is firmly committed to equal opportunity and does not permit -and takes actions to prevent - discrimination, harassment (including sexual violence, domestic violence, dating violence and stalking), and retaliation on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, genetic information, or veteran status in its application, employment practices, and facilities; nor permits race, color, national origin, religion, age, disability, veteran status, or sex discrimination and harassment in its admissions processes, and educational programs and activities. UNT System Administration promptly investigates complaints of discrimination, harassment, and related retaliation and takes remedial action when appropriate. System Administration also takes actions to prevent retaliation against individuals who oppose any form of harassment or discriminatory practice, file a charge or report, or testify, assist, or participate in a related investigation or proceeding.
Advertised: 30 Jul 2026 Central Daylight Time
Applications close:
Whatsapp Facebook LinkedIn Email App