Detectives and Criminal Investigators are responsible for gathering facts and collecting evidence related to criminal cases. Their job involves interviewing suspects and witnesses, analyzing records, observing activities, and participating in raids or arrests. They work to solve crimes, gather evidence for court cases, and collaborate with other law enforcement agencies. Detectives also prepare reports, maintain records, and testify in court.
This income data is sourced from the May 2023 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey. The dataset is updated annually.
Annual Pay Distribution | Salary |
|---|---|
10th percentile | $68,250.00 |
25th percentile | $77,520.00 |
median (50th percentile) | $95,090.00 |
75th percentile | $96,010.00 |
90th percentile | $123,250.00 |
Hourly Pay Distribution | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|
10th percentile | $32.81 |
25th percentile | $37.27 |
median (50th percentile) | $45.72 |
75th percentile | $46.16 |
90th percentile | $59.25 |
Detectives and Criminal Investigators typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, although many agencies prefer candidates with some college coursework or a degree in criminal justice or related fields. Higher-ranking positions often necessitate a bachelor's degree or even advanced degrees like a master's. On-the-job experience or prior work in law enforcement can also be beneficial for aspiring detectives and investigators. While a high school diploma is generally the minimum requirement, further education can enhance job prospects and advancement opportunities for individuals pursuing this career path. Training for Detectives and Criminal Investigators usually involves a combination of on-the-job instruction and formal training programs provided by their employing agency or organization. These programs cover topics such as investigative techniques, evidence collection, legal procedures, report writing, and specialized areas like computer forensics or white-collar crime investigation. In addition to initial training, ongoing professional development is crucial to keep investigators abreast of new technologies, laws, and investigative methods in order to effectively solve cases and adapt to evolving criminal tactics.