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Missing Persons Unit Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Communications Operator (Dispatch)

Lufkin, TX · On-site

$22.23/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

Maintain communications with unit personnel in the field in order to conduct computerized searches through local, state and national databases.Confirms stolen property and wanted/missing persons as ...

Assists with decisions concerning a law enforcement unit, and trains, educates and assists new ... and searches for missing persons. Performs other job-related duties as assigned. Minimum ...

Constable Deputy Sr.

Austin, TX · On-site

$73K - $82K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

... law enforcement unit, and trains, educates and assists new Deputy Constables. .Delivers and ... searches for missing persons. • Performs other job-related duties as assigned. Minimum ...

... locate missing persons Patrols property by means of vehicle or on foot Specializes in the ... to unit for which the deputy is assigned Possesses knowledge of the use and care of vehicles ...

Deputy Patrol

Georgetown, TX · On-site

$34.64/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

Attempts to locate missing persons * Patrols property by means of vehicle or on foot * Specializes ... unit for which the deputy is assigned * Possesses knowledge of the use and care of vehicles ...

Campus Police Officer

TX · On-site

$58K - $67K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Attempt to locate missing persons. Enforce traffic law by detecting violations, making violator ... Nursing unit; outpatient clinics)YesExposure to human/animal blood, body fluids, or ...

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Missing Persons Unit information

See Texas salary details

$12

$19

$28

How much do missing persons unit jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for missing persons unit in Texas is $19.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.43 and $24.86 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Missing Persons Unit?

A Missing Persons Unit is a specialized division within law enforcement agencies dedicated to investigating and locating individuals who have been reported missing. These units collaborate with local, state, and federal agencies to gather information, analyze evidence, and coordinate search efforts. They also provide support and resources to the families of missing persons. The primary goal of a Missing Persons Unit is to safely locate missing individuals and resolve their cases as quickly as possible.

What is the difference between Missing Persons Unit vs Missing Persons Investigator?

AspectMissing Persons UnitMissing Persons Investigator
Required CredentialsLaw enforcement training, criminal justice degree often preferredLaw enforcement background, criminal justice degree, specialized training
Work EnvironmentPolice stations, field operations, community outreachField investigations, interviews, case analysis
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies, police departmentsLaw enforcement agencies, private investigation firms
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in missing persons casesSpecific investigative responsibilities in missing persons cases

The Missing Persons Unit typically refers to a specialized team within law enforcement focused on locating missing individuals, often involving community outreach and coordination. A Missing Persons Investigator is a role within or associated with this unit, responsible for conducting investigations, interviews, and case analysis. While both roles require law enforcement credentials and work within similar environments, the investigator focuses more on active casework, whereas the unit encompasses broader coordination efforts.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in a Missing Persons Unit?

Professionals in a Missing Persons Unit often encounter emotionally charged situations, balancing sensitivity with investigative rigor. One common challenge is managing high caseloads while ensuring each case receives adequate attention and resources. Collaborating effectively with law enforcement agencies, social services, and families is crucial to gathering information and leads. Additionally, the unpredictable nature of each case can require flexible hours and adaptability to rapidly changing circumstances.

What does it take to become a missing persons unit investigator?

A missing persons unit investigator typically needs a background in law enforcement, strong investigative skills, and knowledge of case management and evidence collection. Relevant training, such as criminal investigation courses, and proficiency with tools like databases and surveillance are also important. Often, experience in patrol or detective work is required before specializing in missing persons cases.

Is tracking missing persons a real job?

Yes, tracking missing persons is a real job typically performed by law enforcement agencies' Missing Persons Units. These professionals use investigative skills, databases, and sometimes forensic tools to locate individuals and assist in recovery efforts.

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

To thrive in a Missing Persons Unit, you need a strong background in criminal justice or law enforcement, investigative skills, and often relevant police academy training or degree. Familiarity with case management systems, forensic technologies, and national databases like NCIC is typically required. Strong soft skills such as empathy, resilience, and effective communication are vital for working with distressed families and coordinating with various agencies. These competencies are crucial for efficiently investigating cases, supporting affected individuals, and increasing the chances of locating missing persons safely.

What job categories do people searching Missing Persons Unit jobs in Texas look for?

The top searched job categories for Missing Persons Unit jobs in Texas are:

Infographic showing various Missing Persons Unit job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,136 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Forensic Technologist - Missing Persons Unit

University of North Texas System

Fort Worth, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Forensic Technologist - Missing Persons Unit
Job no: 514750
Work type: Staff
Location: Fort Worth
Categories: Data Science
Title: Forensic Technologist - Missing Persons Unit
Employee Classification: Forensic Technologist
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 08
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) at UNT Health is an accredited forensic lab designated as a criminal justice agency by the state of Texas. Globally recognized for its expertise, CHI offers forensic DNA testing, forensic genetic genealogy (FGG), CODIS operations, anthropological analysis, investigative support, cutting-edge research initiatives, and forensic training and education. CHI was the first public lab in the nation accredited to perform forensic genetic genealogy (FGG) and manages the Texas Missing Persons DNA Database.
Position Overview
Perform lab duties as part of the Missing Persons Unit, to include DNA extraction, quantification, amplification and loading of forensic samples onto analytical instruments for analysis to support criminal and civil investigations. Assist in performing daily maintenance and stocking of laboratories.
Minimum Qualifications
High school diploma or GED and three (3) years of related experience; or any equivalent combination of education and experience.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Knowledge of forensic science principles, evidence collection, and preservation techniques related to criminal investigations.
  • Ability to prioritize multiple tasks.
  • Skill toward completing assignments with strong attention to detail and accuracy.
  • Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
  • Strong written and oral communication skills to prepare detailed reports and present findings clearly to law enforcement and in court.

Preferred Qualifications
Knowledge of forensic science issues.
Required License/Registration/Certifications
Texas Forensic Science Commission Forensic Biology Technician License
Job Duties
  • Casework examination following all Quality Assurance Manual and Procedure Manual guidelines.
  • Perform extractions, quantitation's, amplifications, and load samples on the genetic analyzers for processing of forensic casework samples.
  • Work with the analyst to determine which samples may require reextractions, reamplification, or reloading.
  • Assist with daily maintenance checks and stock laboratories.
  • Provide court testimony as required.
  • Maintain proficiency by completing two external proficiency tests per year as required by the National Standards.

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

Environmental Hazards
  • No adverse environmental conditions expected.

Work Schedule
8:00a - 5:00p, M-F (with potential for flexible 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. 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.
Candidates are requested to include their transcript(s) with application.
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: 11 Aug 2026 Central Daylight Time
Applications close:
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