1

Narcotics Investigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

From homicide investigations to illegal narcotics, criminal records, cybercrime, human trafficking, missing persons, or through training and certifying public safety officers, DCI serves as the hub ...

From homicide investigations to illegal narcotics, criminal records, cybercrime, human trafficking, missing persons, or through training and certifying public safety officers, DCI serves as the hub ...

From homicide investigations to illegal narcotics, criminal records, cybercrime, human trafficking, missing persons, or through training and certifying public safety officers, DCI serves as the hub ...

From homicide investigations to illegal narcotics, criminal records, cybercrime, human trafficking, missing persons, or through training and certifying public safety officers, DCI serves as the hub ...

Narcotics Pharmacist Supervisor

Grand Prairie, TX · On-site

$54.25 - $66/hr

Maintain inventory control systems for narcotics, to ensure all controlled substances are tracked ... Investigate and resolve medication-related queries. * Maintain customer's database to include ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

Narcotics Investigator information

See salary details

$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:
Senior Detective Investigator

Senior Detective Investigator

City of New York

Staten Island, NY

$75K - $94K/yr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago


City Of New York rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 77 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

483rd of 646 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Job Description

RICHMOND COUNTY DISTRICT ATTORNEY
The men and women of the Richmond County District Attorney's office work each day in partnership with Law Enforcement and the people of Staten Island to pursue justice for victims of crime, to prevent crime in all its forms, and to promote the safety and well-being of all citizens of our Borough.
THE ROLE
The Richmond County District Attorney (RCDA) is seeking a veteran law enforcement professional for the position of Senior Detective Investigator. The responsibilities of the position include, but are not limited to the following:
- Conduct investigations on a wide variety of matters, including but not limited to: cold case homicides; organized crime; narcotics; identity theft; financial crimes; violent crime; special victim cases; domestic violence; welfare fraud; child abuse; gangs; hate crimes; firearms.
- Assist in transporting witnesses for grand jury/court appearances
- Conduct background checks for prospective RCDA employees.
- Conduct surveillances and assist prosecutors with trial preparation.
- Interview witnesses and arrange for witness protection at the direction of the Chief Investigator.
- Other duties as assigned.
PREFERRED SKILLS
- Three or more years of full-time, paid employment as defined in CPL 1.20, within the State of New York.
- Accredited police academy training.
- Certified in firearms proficiency.
- Extensive knowledge and investigative experience in one or more of the following areas: cold case homicides; organized crime; narcotics; identity theft; financial crimes; violent crime; special victim cases; domestic violence; welfare fraud; child abuse; gangs; hate crimes; firearms.
- Strong technical computer skills using a variety of applications for law enforcement use, including law enforcement photography and videotaping skills regarding, e.g., crime scenes, lineups, interrogations, victim injuries.
- Demonstrated understanding of criminal law and procedures with experience building cases and maintaining documentation to assist ADAs.
- Experience with providing status updates to supervisor and ability to present cases to prosecutors and leadership.
- Excellent communication skills with the ability to serve as a Liaison to other law enforcement agencies and/or other government institutions.
- Ability to work both independently and as a team to manage multiple projects.
- Familiarity with various media, e.g., extracting/downloading video footage from surveillance systems.
- Experience in installing a system for, and the execution of, eavesdropping warrants.
- Familiarity with CALEA; SYTECH system; Title III requirements.
CIVIL SERVICE TITLE: Senior Detective Investigator
SALARY RANGE: $75,877.00-$94,074.00 Commensurate with experience; full NYC benefits package
APPLICATION DEADLINE: Until filled
TO APPLY: ALL APPLICATIONS MUST BE SUBMITTED THROUGH THE NYC JOBS WEBSITE
City Employees - Click here and log in to ESS.
Non-City Employees - Go to https://a127-jobs.nyc.gov/
- Search for job ID number: 781187
- Click on the job business title: Senior Detective Investigator
- Click on "Apply Now" at the bottom of the posting
Please be advised that we are not accepting phone calls, emails, or mailed correspondence related to resumes or job applications. Candidates will only be contacted if selected for an interview.
The candidate selected for this position must be a resident of the City of New York or become a resident within 90 days of appointment.
Authorization to work in the United States is required for this position.
Sponsorship is not available for this position.
The City of New York is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.
SENIOR DETECTIVE INVESTIGATOR - 30827

Qualifications

1. An Associate degree or 60 credits from an accredited college, with specialization in police science, criminal justice or law enforcement and either one (1) year of full time satisfactory experience as a police officer or deputy sheriff of an authorized police department or sheriff's office or one (1) year of full time satisfactory experience performing criminal investigations in which field work comprised a substantial part of the duties; or
2. A four year high school diploma or its educational equivalent and either three (3) years of full time satisfactory experience as a police officer or duty sheriff or three (3) year of full time paid experience performing criminal investigations in which field work comprised a substantial part of the duties; or
3. A combination of education and/or experience which is equivalent to the requirements in "1" and "2" above. However, all candidates must a high school diploma or its equivalent.
Driver License Requirement: You must have a motor vehicle driver license valid in the State of New York at the time of appointment. This license must be maintained for the duration of your employment.

Additional Information

The City of New York is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.


What City Of New York employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom