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Narcotics Detective Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... detection of trace particulate and vapor explosives and narcotics. Our company reaches worldwide to supply companies, government facilities, militaries, customs, agricultural and electronics ...

Courier Driver

Southfield, MI · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

The highly complex method developed by our team will most definitely detect,and confirm the presence and concentration of scheduled prescription drugs and illicit narcotics which will aid your ...

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... detection of trace particulate and vapor explosives and narcotics. Our company reaches worldwide to supply companies, government facilities, militaries, customs, agricultural and electronics ...

Security Staff

Miami, FL · On-site

$15.25 - $18.75/hr

... narcotics detection). * Ability to operate effectively in a multinational environment. * Strong organizational skills; literacy and basic computer knowledge (preferred). * STCW 95 Basic Safety ...

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The highly complex method developed by our team will most definitely detect,and confirm the presence and concentration of scheduled prescription drugs and illicit narcotics which will aid your ...

Lead Screener

Seattle, WA · On-site

$25 - $25.65/hr

Bonus for narcotics detection * Bonus for expired or altered boarding pass. * Bonus for expired or altered TWIC card. * Bonus for expired or altered PCST and/or Port of Seattle ID badge. * Bonus for ...

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Customer Service Rep

Southfield, MI · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

The highly complex method developed by our team will most definitely detect,and confirm the presence and concentration of scheduled prescription drugs and illicit narcotics which will aid your ...

... in connection with crime detection and law enforcement work; assists with more complex ... Conducts color screening reagent tests for hard narcotics such as heroin, cocaine, amphetamines and ...

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The highly complex method developed by our team will most definitely detect,and confirm the presence and concentration of scheduled prescription drugs and illicit narcotics which will aid your ...

Be Seen First

The highly complex method developed by our team will most definitely detect,and confirm the presence and concentration of scheduled prescription drugs and illicit narcotics which will aid your ...

Be Seen First

The highly complex method developed by our team will most definitely detect,and confirm the presence and concentration of scheduled prescription drugs and illicit narcotics which will aid your ...

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Narcotics Detective information

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$29K

$61.9K

$98.5K

How much do narcotics detective jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for narcotics detective in the United States is $61,905.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,500.00 and $71,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Narcotics Detective, and why are they important?

To excel as a Narcotics Detective, you generally need a background in law enforcement, strong investigative skills, and knowledge of drug laws, often supported by police academy training and relevant certifications. Familiarity with case management software, surveillance equipment, evidence collection tools, and sometimes undercover operations training is typically required. Outstanding critical thinking, discretion, and interpersonal communication are essential soft skills for building trust, conducting interviews, and working safely in high-risk environments. These competencies are crucial for effectively investigating drug-related crimes, ensuring officer safety, and securing successful prosecutions.

What is the highest paid detective job?

The highest paid detective roles are often specialized positions such as federal agents, private investigators with advanced expertise, or detectives working in high-cost regions. These roles typically require extensive experience, specialized training, and sometimes security clearances, leading to higher salaries compared to local or municipal detective positions.

How do you become a narcotics detective?

To become a narcotics detective, candidates typically need to first serve as a police officer, meet minimum age and education requirements, and gain experience in law enforcement. They often undergo specialized training in drug investigation techniques and may need to pass written exams and physical fitness tests before applying for a narcotics unit.

What is the difference between Narcotics Detective vs Drug Enforcement Agent?

AspectNarcotics DetectiveDrug Enforcement Agent
CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED, law enforcement academy certificationHigh school diploma or GED, law enforcement academy, specialized DEA training
Work EnvironmentLocal police departments, sheriff's offices, on-the-ground investigationsFederal agencies, field operations, undercover work
Employer & IndustryLocal law enforcement agenciesFederal agencies like DEA
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding local narcotics investigationsFederal drug enforcement roles and responsibilities

Both Narcotics Detectives and Drug Enforcement Agents focus on drug-related crimes, but Narcotics Detectives typically work at the local level investigating drug crimes within their jurisdiction. Drug Enforcement Agents operate at the federal level, often handling larger, more complex cases across states or nationwide. They share similar credentials and work environments but differ mainly in scope and authority.

What are some common challenges faced by Narcotics Detectives during investigations?

Narcotics Detectives often encounter challenges such as building trust with confidential informants, staying updated on evolving drug trends, and maintaining personal safety during undercover operations. The role requires patience and adaptability, as investigations can be lengthy and involve complex surveillance work. Detectives also collaborate closely with other law enforcement agencies and must handle sensitive information with discretion, balancing investigative effectiveness with legal and ethical standards.

How much do drug detectives make?

Drug detectives, also known as narcotics detectives, typically earn a salary ranging from $50,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and law enforcement agency. They often work irregular hours and require specialized training and certifications in drug enforcement and investigation techniques.

What is a Narcotics Detective?

A Narcotics Detective is a specialized law enforcement officer responsible for investigating crimes related to illegal drugs and controlled substances. Their duties include conducting surveillance, gathering evidence, making arrests, and working with other agencies to dismantle drug trafficking operations. Narcotics Detectives often go undercover to infiltrate drug networks and may also be involved in educating the public about drug prevention. They play a crucial role in reducing drug-related crime and ensuring community safety.

How much do narcotics detectives make in the US?

Narcotics detectives in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, location, and department size. Salaries can increase with additional certifications, specialized skills, and years of service.
What states have the most Narcotics Detective jobs? States with the most job openings for Narcotics Detective jobs include:
Infographic showing various Narcotics Detective job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,905 per year, or $29.8 per hour.
Police Officer (Secret Service Police) Canine Explosives Detection

Police Officer (Secret Service Police) Canine Explosives Detection

US Department of Homeland Security

Washington, DC

$77K/yr

Other

Posted 9 days ago


U.S. Department Of Homeland Security rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 85 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

86th of 276 rated public sector bodies


Job description

The Secret Service Police (Uniformed Division) mission is to protect facilities and venues secured for U.S. Secret Service protectees. Throughout its history, the Secret Service Police has accomplished this mission through a tradition of honor, integrity, and a commitment to excellence.

Recruitment Incentive of $75,000. For more information, click here.
For more information on the Secret Service, click here.

Qualifications:

*Requirements continued:

  • Hearing loss, as measured by an audiometer, must not exceed 25 decibels (A.S.A. or equivalent I.S.O.) in either ear in the 500, 1000, and 2000 Hz ranges.
  • Obtain a Top-Secret Clearance and retain it during your career.
  • Use your official name on your application as it appears on your valid government identification (i.e., Real ID Driver License, State ID, Passport).

As a condition of employment for accepting this position, you may be required to serve a 2-year trial period during which we will evaluate your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. In determining if your employment advances the public interest, we may consider:

  • your performance and conduct;
  • the needs and interests of the agency;
  • whether your continued employment would advance organizational goals of the agency or the Government; and
  • whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service.

Upon completion of your trial period your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest.
You qualify for the LE-01 grade level (starting salary $77,987.00) if you meet the following requirements:

  • Possess, at a minimum, a high school diploma or certificate of equivalency.
  • Be the age of 20 at the time of application. Must be 21 at the time of appointment.

Ideal candidates will possess ONE of the SEVEN categories listed below:

Military (current/former):

  • Military working dog handler attached to a garrison or deployed unit.
  • Experience with explosive detection canines.
  • Successfully completed the requisite training course for a military K9 handler.

Law Enforcement (current/former):

  • Certified K9 handler/trainer for state, local, or federal agency.
  • Served as a member of a federal, state, or local law enforcement K9 team.
  • Successfully worked a law enforcement detection canine.
  • Experience with explosive/narcotics detection canines.

Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.

Applicants must successfully complete Phase I (see below) to receive a conditional offer. In addition, applicants must successfully complete Phase II (see below) in order to receive final consideration for employment.
Phase I:

  • National Crime Information Center (NCIC)
  • Uniformed Division Entrance Examination (UDEE)
  • Applicant Physical Abilities Test (APAT)
  • Special Agent and Uniformed Division Pre-Employment Review (Super) Interview

Phase II:

  • Credit Check
  • Security Interview
  • Polygraph examination
  • Drug screening
  • Medical examination
  • Background investigation (a top-secret security clearance)

As part of the application process the applicant will be required to complete the United States Secret Service Applicant Physical Abilities Test (APAT). It is a physical fitness assessment which consists of four components (push-ups, sit-ups, Illinois Agility Run and a 1.5 Mile Run). The APAT is designed to measure the current level of general physical fitness of an applicant, which serves as an indicator of an applicant's ability to safely complete a vigorous physical training program. It evaluates an applicant's ability to perform the physical tasks required on the job by measuring muscular and dynamic strength, endurance, flexibility, aerobic capacity and other factors related to physical aptitude. The standards are anticipated to be the same regardless of age, gender or position.
General Medical Requirements:
As determined by the Office of Personnel Management, the duties of this position require moderate to arduous physical exertion involving walking and standing, use of firearms, and exposure to inclement weather. Manual dexterity with comparatively free motion of fingers, wrist, elbows, shoulders, hips, and knee joints is required. Arms, hands, legs and feet must function sufficiently in order for applicants to perform the duties satisfactorily. Since the duties of this position are exacting and involve the responsibility for the safety of others under trying conditions, applicants must possess emotional and mental stability. Any condition that would hinder full, efficient performance of the duties of this position or that would cause the individual to be a hazard to himself/herself or to others is disqualifying. There are also specific medical requirements for this position, and any chronic disease or condition affecting the respiratory, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, musculoskeletal, digestive, nervous, endocrine, lymphatic, genitourinary, and other systems that would impair full performance of the duties of the position may also be disqualifying. Click here for more information.

To view the entire application process, please click here.

The Secret Service follows stringent guidelines relating to illegal drug usage. An applicant's history is reviewed and a determination for employment is made according to our guidelines. For more information regarding the U.S. Secret Service drug guidelines, please click here to view our Drug Policy.

Consideration will be given to performance appraisals and incentive awards as an indicator of quality of prior experience, no points will be assigned.

For definitions of terms found in this announcement, please click here.

Education:Employment Type: OTHER

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About U.S. Department of Homeland Security

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is a federal agency operating within the government services industry in Washington, DC, US. Established in 2003, the DHS is directly responsible for public security, roughly comparable to the interior or home ministries of other countries. Its main responsibilities include protecting the United States from and responding to terrorist attacks, man-made accidents, and natural disasters. Through its more than 20 component agencies including Coast Guard, Customs and Border Protection, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, it ensures the safety of the US through numerous programs and initiatives. The DHS upholds a core value system with the mission of safeguarding the American people, our homeland, and values. Notably, the DHS plays a critical role in the spectral range of activities to prepare, prevent, and respond to possible threats to the US.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

Year founded

2003