ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Temporary Cold Case Investigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Children's Aid

Case Planner (Temporary)

Brooklyn, NY · On-site

$29.12 - $30.22/hr

Manage a case load of approximately 10 children with varied levels of mental health needs ... Children's Aid will conduct a prompt and thorough investigation of all allegations of ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsCold Case Investigator JobsTemporary Cold Case Investigator Jobs

Temporary Cold Case Investigator information

See salary details

$23

$31

$41

How much do temporary cold case investigator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for temporary cold case investigator in the United States is $31.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.24 and $36.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do I become a temporary cold case investigator?

To become a temporary cold case investigator, candidates typically need a background in law enforcement, criminal justice, or forensic science, along with investigative experience. Relevant skills include evidence analysis, interview techniques, and familiarity with investigative tools; some positions may require specialized training or certifications. Prior experience in homicide or cold case investigations can improve chances of selection for temporary roles.

What are some unique challenges faced by temporary cold case investigators, and how can candidates prepare for them?

Temporary Cold Case Investigators often confront challenges such as limited or outdated evidence, uncooperative witnesses, and the need to quickly familiarize themselves with complex case histories. Since the role is temporary, there is added pressure to make meaningful progress within a set timeframe. Candidates can prepare by honing their research and analytical skills, developing persistence, and learning to collaborate effectively with permanent team members and external agencies. Familiarity with modern investigative technologies and cold case protocols is also beneficial.

What is a temporary cold case investigator?

Temporary Cold Case Investigators are professionals who are hired on a short-term or contract basis to review and investigate unsolved criminal cases, often referred to as 'cold cases.' Their main responsibilities include re-examining old evidence, conducting interviews, and using new forensic technology to find leads that may have been missed in the initial investigation. They typically work with law enforcement agencies to help bring closure to cases that have remained unresolved for years. The temporary nature of their employment means they may be brought in for specific projects or periods when extra expertise is needed.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a temporary cold case investigator?

To thrive as a Temporary Cold Case Investigator, you need strong investigative skills, a background in criminal justice or law enforcement, and experience in evidence analysis and case management. Familiarity with forensic databases, evidence tracking systems, and crime scene analysis tools is typically required. Exceptional attention to detail, persistence, and strong communication skills help investigators re-examine evidence and coordinate with various agencies. These skills are crucial for uncovering new leads and resolving previously unsolved cases to provide closure for victims and communities.
More about Temporary Cold Case Investigator jobs
What cities are hiring for Temporary Cold Case Investigator jobs? Cities with the most Temporary Cold Case Investigator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Cold Case Investigator jobs? The most popular types of Cold Case Investigator jobs are:
What states have the most Temporary Cold Case Investigator jobs? States with the most job openings for Temporary Cold Case Investigator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Temporary Cold Case Investigator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Temporary Cold Case Investigator jobs are:
Temporary Cold Case Investigator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Temporary Cold Case Investigator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $65,950 per year, or $31.7 per hour.

Assistant District Attorney: Cold Case Unit - Homicide Bureau

Queens District Attorney's Office

Kew Gardens, NY

$107K - $150K/yr

Other

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

My Account
Job Openings >> Assistant District Attorney: Cold Case Unit - Homicide Bureau
Assistant District Attorney: Cold Case Unit - Homicide Bureau
Summary
Title: Assistant District Attorney: Cold Case Unit - Homicide Bureau ID: 1400 Location: Kew Gardens, NY Department: Legal Job Type: N/A
More about this job >
Description

The Queens County District Attorney's Office is seeking an experienced prosecutor to work in its Cold Case Unit in the Homicide Bureau.  The assistant will be responsible for the investigation and prosecution of cold case homicides and unidentified remains cases. 

The Cold Case Unit is comprised of an experienced team of assistant district attorneys, detective investigators and support staff who have systematically begun to sift through a substantial backlog of unsolved cases.  The goals of the unit are to give each of these cases a fresh look, to bring them up to investigative standards, and to seek community support and involvement, whenever appropriate. The unit uses groundbreaking forensic testing and cutting-edge investigative techniques to examine unsolved crimes to bring long-awaited justice to victims and their families.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

  • Working with various NYPD and QDA squads to enhance and solve challenging and complex cold case homicides and to identify human remains cases.
  • Maintaining a caseload of cold case investigations and indictments.
  • Interviewing witnesses, relevant experts and police officers.
  • Reviewing cold case homicides and unidentified remains cases to determine if DNA or other advanced forensic testing will assist in the development of investigative leads.
  • Coordinating with the Office of Chief Medical Examiner's Office, NYPD and other agencies to facilitate forensic testing and investigative leads.
  • Drafting subpoenas, search warrants, historical cell sites and other investigative applications.
  • Writing prospective arrest reports and prosecution memos.
  • Conducting grand jury presentations.
  • Depending on level of experience, conducting and/or second seating trials of cold case homicides.
  • Treating family members who have suffered the ultimate loss with kindness and compassion.

Qualifications:  Interested applicants must possess a J.D. degree, be an active member of the New York State bar in good standing and have at least 4 years post-J.D. experience.  Applicants must also have:

  • Grand jury and felony trial experience
  • Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and an exceptional ability to investigate and enhance complex cases.
  • Excellent case-management skills and ability to multi-task.
  • Candidates should have the experience of investigating and/or litigating cases involving violent crime, including the use of DNA and other forensic science.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills to work with detectives, various agencies, and families of homicide victims.

Salary range is from $107,000. to $150,000.
Applicants should submit a resume, along with a cover letter addressed to Counsel to the Chief Assistant Vincent J. Carroll Jr. Please apply through the link below.
Pursuant to Public Officers Law Section 3(1), United States citizenship is required of all Assistant District Attorneys upon commencement of their employment, as is New York State residency.
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.
As a current or prospective employee of the City of New York, you may be eligible for federal loan forgiveness programs and state repayment assistance programs. Please review the notice to see if you may be eligible for programs and how to apply at nyc.gov/studentloans.

Apply Now
 
Refer to a Friend
Copyright 2026 Queens District Attorney's Office. All rights reserved.
Powered by ApplicantStack Applicant Tracking
Privacy Policy | Terms of Use

Apply