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Temporary Cold Case Investigator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Walmart

Store Supervisor

Altoona, IA · On-site

$65K - $100K/yr

... activities by investigating alleged fraud and other alleged illegalactivities Conducts ... case reports and providescourt room testimony as needed Partners in collaborative efforts with ...

Walmart

Department Supervisor

Altoona, IA · On-site

$65K - $100K/yr

... activities by investigating alleged fraud and other alleged illegalactivities Conducts ... case reports and providescourt room testimony as needed Partners in collaborative efforts with ...

CEC COMPANIES

Energy Marshall (33794)

Fairfax, IA · On-site

Investigate and document energy-related incidents, near misses, and safety concerns. * Maintain ... Track energized systems, temporary power status, and permanent power turnover. * Support ...

Perdue Farms

Safety Manager

Sioux Center, IA · On-site

Ensure effective investigations into all safety and security incidents are completed, participating ... Maintain working relationships with permanent and temporary contractors to validate their safe work ...

Perdue Farms

Safety Manager

Sioux Center, IA · On-site

Ensure effective investigations into all safety and security incidents are completed, participating ... Maintain working relationships with permanent and temporary contractors to validate their safe work ...

Perdue Farms

Safety Manager

Sioux Center, IA · On-site

Ensure effective investigations into all safety and security incidents are completed, participating ... Maintain working relationships with permanent and temporary contractors to validate their safe work ...

Kraft Heinz

Pack Service 2nd Shift

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$20/hr

... mix of temporary and full-time associates. 100% Food Service, 4 bag soup lines, 1 tub line, 18 ... Verify bag and case print * Operate Icontech * GFS (inners, taping, stickering) * Load totes into ...

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Temporary Cold Case Investigator information

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.

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.

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; certifications in criminal investigation can also be beneficial. Employment may require passing background checks and working in a law enforcement or forensic environment on a temporary basis.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cold Case Investigator jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Cold Case Investigator jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Temporary Cold Case Investigator jobs in Iowa?

For Temporary Cold Case Investigator jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Temporary Cold Case Investigator jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Temporary Cold Case Investigator jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Temporary Cold Case Investigator jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Temporary Cold Case Investigator job openings:

Temporary Cold Case Investigator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Temporary Cold Case Investigator job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, and 40% Temporary. Highlights an 80% In-person, and 20% Remote job distribution.

COLD CASE SPECIALIST (ON-CALL)

Polk County, IA

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$30.74/hr

Part-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Salary: $30.74 Hourly
Location : Field Headquarters - PCSO 5995 NE 14th St., DSM, IA
Job Type: On-Call
Job Number: 27-1022
Department: Sheriff's Office
Opening Date: 09/01/2026
Closing Date: 9/10/2026 11:59 PM Central
FLSA: Exempt
Bargaining Unit: PRA
Hours: Various hours as needed
Bargaining Unit: AFSCME/Professional
Salary Grade: 9
Location: Sheriff Field Headquarters
Under general supervision, performs investigative research, case analysis, and project coordination involving unresolved major felony criminal investigations. Conducts comprehensive reviews of historical files, prepares analytical reports and case summaries, identifies investigative opportunities, coordinates forensic testing, and collaborates with prosecutors, law enforcement personnel, and law enforcement adjacent professionals.
Illustrative Examples of Work
  1. Conducts comprehensive reviews of unresolved adult and juvenile felony investigations; examines reports, witness statements, photographs, forensic analyses, digital evidence, and other investigative materials to identify potential investigative opportunities.
  2. Researches, verifies, and analyzes investigative information using criminal justice databases, public records, open-source intelligence, genealogy resources, and social media when appropriate to support case development.
  3. Develops investigative timelines, case summaries, analytical reports, and recommendations to support ongoing and cold case investigations.
  4. Identifies and prioritizes new investigative opportunities by applying advances in forensic science, DNA technology, investigative genealogy, digital forensics, and other emerging methodologies.
  5. Coordinates the submission, tracking, and follow-up of evidence for advanced forensic testing, including DNA analysis, latent fingerprint examination, digital forensic examination, and investigative genealogy.
  6. Collaborates with detectives, prosecutors, forensic laboratories, and partner criminal justice agencies to support information sharing, clarify investigative needs, and maintain case integrity.
  7. Assists in locating and re-contacting witnesses, victims, family members, and other individuals relevant to investigative progress.
  8. Maintains organized investigative files, documentation, research records, and statistical data; prepares investigative materials and reports for prosecutorial review and administrative use.
  9. Performs related duties as required.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Knowledge of criminal investigative principles, evidence management, and investigative documentation.
  • Knowledge of criminal justice data bases, public records research, forensic science, and investigative technology.
  • Knowledge of homicide investigations and major case management principles.
  • Knowledge of DNA analysis, CODIS, forensic genealogy, and current forensic technologies.
  • Knowledge of methods and techniques used in gathering physical evidence.
  • Knowledge of cold case investigative methodologies, including historical case reconstruction and long-term preservation standards.
  • Knowledge of interagency investigative protocols, including information-sharing procedures, chain-of-custody requirements, and multi-jurisdictional coordination.
  • Knowledge of departmental policies and procedures.
  • Skill in analyzing complex and incomplete investigative information to identify potential investigative opportunities.
  • Skill in interpreting forensic reports and integrating findings into investigative decision-making.
  • Skill in organizing multi-source information into coherent investigative summaries.
  • Ability to research, organize, and analyze large volumes of investigative information.
  • Ability to evaluate historical investigative techniques against current best practices.
  • Ability to maintain objectivity while reviewing complex investigations.
  • Ability to prepare clear and professional written reports and analytical summaries of investigative findings.
  • Ability to identify patterns, inconsistencies, and investigative opportunities through detailed case review.
  • Ability to testify regarding investigative findings if required.
  • Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
  • Ability to manage multiple assignments while maintaining exceptional attention to detail.
  • Ability to manage sensitive information with discretion and in compliance with legal and departmental standards.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with governmental officials, employees, and the general public, fostering a collaborative and professional work environment, fostering a collaborative and professional work environment.

Training and Experience
  • Bachelor's Degree in criminal justice, or related field, and
  • Three years of experience in criminal investigations, intelligence analysis, forensic science, digital forensics, or related field, or
  • Any equivalent combination of training and experience that will have provided the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Special Requirements:
  • A criminal background check is required.
  • A drug screen is required prior to final offer of employment.
  • A valid State of Iowa driver's license is required.
  • IOWA (Iowa On-Line Warrants and Articles)/NCIC (National Crime Information Center) certification is required within six months of hire.

*This position is on-call status and is not benefits eligible. Hours/shifts assigned may vary.
Click below for a detailed overview of our benefits package.

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