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Narcotics Investigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Livingston County

Criminal Investigator, PT

Geneseo, NY · On-site

$37K - $40K/yr

... narcotics usage and trafficking, and attending meetings as a liaison to partnering law enforcement agencies. The Criminal Investigator works in accordance with the established practices and ...

State of Oklahoma

Investigator

Mcalester, OK · On-site

Applicants must be CLEET full-time certified with a minimum of three years' full-time law enforcement experience, with preference given to those with narcotics/investigative experience. Must reside ...

SpecialtyRx

Lead Pharmacist (Narcotics)

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$60 - $64/hr

Investigate and resolve medication-related queries. * Communicate with facilities nursing staff ... Previous narcotics experience preferred. * Previous Leadership experience * Strong attention to ...

State of Louisiana

Criminal Investigator 3

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$4K - $9K/mo

CID is comprised of both Detectives and Narcotics investigators. CID operates in three (3) Regions throughout the state, which follow the same geographical lines as the Patrol Regions. In addition to ...

SpecialtyRx

Lead Pharmacist (Narcotics)

Roanoke, VA

$60 - $64/hr

Investigate and resolve medication-related queries. * Communicate with facilities nursing staff ... Previous narcotics experience preferred. * Previous Leadership experience * Strong attention to ...

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Narcotics Investigator information

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$32K

$75.3K

$131K

How much do narcotics investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for narcotics 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 the difference between Narcotics Investigator vs Drug Enforcement Agent?

AspectNarcotics InvestigatorDrug Enforcement Agent
CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED, law enforcement training, possibly specialized narcotics certificationsSimilar requirements, often with additional federal credentials or specialized training
Work EnvironmentLocal or state law enforcement agencies, undercover operations, crime scenesFederal agencies, undercover operations, border or international investigations
Employer & IndustryLocal/state police, sheriff's offices, criminal justiceFederal agencies like DEA, FBI, DHS
Search & Comparison IntentCommonly compared due to similar roles in drug enforcement at local levelsOften contrasted with narcotics investigators for federal scope

Both Narcotics Investigators and Drug Enforcement Agents focus on combating drug crimes, but Narcotics Investigators typically work at the local or state level, while Drug Enforcement Agents operate at the federal level. They share similar credentials and work environments, but differ mainly in jurisdiction and scope of authority.

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

To thrive as a Narcotics Investigator, you need a strong background in criminal justice or law enforcement, investigative experience, and typically a relevant degree or police academy training. Familiarity with surveillance technology, evidence collection procedures, and databases like NCIC are essential, along with knowledge of legal guidelines for narcotics enforcement. Critical thinking, discretion, and strong communication skills are vital for building cases and working with confidential informants. These skills are crucial for effectively dismantling illegal drug operations while ensuring investigations are conducted lawfully and safely.

What are some common challenges faced by a Narcotics Investigator, and how can they be addressed?

Narcotics Investigators often encounter challenges such as rapidly changing criminal tactics, high-pressure environments, and the need to maintain confidentiality during investigations. Successfully addressing these issues requires staying updated on the latest drug trends, utilizing strong teamwork and communication skills, and adhering to established protocols for evidence handling. Regular training, collaboration with local and federal agencies, and prioritizing personal safety are essential for overcoming these challenges and achieving successful outcomes in narcotics cases.

How much do narcotics detectives make?

Narcotics detectives typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, location, and agency size. They often work irregular hours and require specialized training in drug enforcement and investigation techniques.

What are narcotics investigators?

Narcotics investigators are specialized law enforcement officers who focus on identifying, investigating, and preventing crimes related to illegal drugs. Their work involves conducting undercover operations, gathering evidence, making arrests, and collaborating with other agencies to dismantle drug trafficking organizations. They often work long and irregular hours, sometimes in high-risk situations, to keep communities safe from the dangers of illicit narcotics. Narcotics investigators typically require specialized training and experience in criminal investigations and drug enforcement.
More about Narcotics Investigator jobs
What states have the most Narcotics Investigator jobs? States with the most job openings for Narcotics Investigator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Narcotics Investigator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Narcotics Investigator jobs are:
Narcotics Investigator jobs near you
District Attorney - Narcotics Investigator

District Attorney - Narcotics Investigator

Monroe County, NY

Rochester, NY • On-site

$56K - $75K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 2 days ago

Monroe County (New York) rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

253rd of 646 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Location: Rochester, NY
Title: District Attorney - Narcotics Investigator
Deadline: Until Filled
Salary: $56,714 - $75,512 annually
Agency/Dept.: District Attorney's Office
Description of Duties
PURSUANT TO SECTION 211 of the New York State Retirement and Social Security Law, the Monroe County District Attorney's Office is conducting a recruitment effort for the position of District Attorney - Narcotics Investigator. We are canvassing to see if there are any interested non-retirees who would meet the minimum qualifications.
This position in the District Attorney's office is responsible for organizing case files and integrating them with intelligence information into a case management system, reviewing criminal history records and arrest packages to determine eligibility for diversion to treatment programs, conducting debriefings to gather intelligence, creating reports to analyze trends in narcotics usage and trafficking, and attending meetings as a liaison to partnering law enforcement agencies. Employee works in accordance with established procedures. The employee is on call twenty-four hours a day and may be required to work nights and weekends. The employee reports directly to the Chief Investigator and works under the general supervision of the Chief of Special Investigations Bureau. Does related work as required.
Minimum Qualifications
THE MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS FOR THIS POSITION, SET BY THE DISTRICT ATTORNEY'S OFFICE ARE :
(A) An associate's degree in Criminal Justice, Public Administration, or Political Science from an accredited college or university and seven (7) years of paid full-time or its part-time equivalent experience as a police officer that involves specialized experience including narcotics investigations; OR,
(B) Seven (7) years of paid full-time or its part-time equivalent experience as a police officer at the Sergeant level or higher; OR,
(C) Any equivalent combination of training and experience as defined by the limits of (A) and (B) above.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS :
Possession of a Police Officer Training Certificate issued by the New York State Bureau for Municipal Police Training Council at the time of appointment.
Must be a United States Citizen at the time of appointment.

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