Detective and Criminal Investigator Career and Salary Profile
Police detectives and criminal investigators typically work in plain clothes to apprehend lawbreakers, investigate criminal cases and solve crimes. They may work for local, state or federal agencies, enforcing different aspects of the law. Completing a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice can be the first step toward a detective or criminal investigator career.
Job Outlook
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts employment of detectives and criminal investigators will grow steadily in coming years. Job growth will occur as the population expands and the demand for trained law enforcement specialists increases. There are likely to be many openings within local police departments, while state and federal agency positions will have greater competition. For these positions, bilingual candidates with a college degree, military service or law enforcement experience – especially investigative expertise – should enjoy the best prospects.
Detective and Criminal Investigator Job Duties
Criminal investigators and detectives – sometimes referred to agents or special agents – gather facts for crime investigation. They compile evidence by observing suspects, interviewing witnesses and suspects, and examining information. If there is sufficient evidence, they will formally charge a suspect with a crime. Detectives and criminal investigators often participate in arrests or raids. These law enforcement professionals usually specialize in specific crimes, such as homicide, drug trafficking or fraud.
Detectives and criminal investigators must keep thorough records of investigations and maintain all pertinent documents. Preparing reports that detail their findings is a significant part of their work duties, as is collaborating with other departments and agencies to compare and exchange information. Additional aspects of this profession include determining the scope, timing and direction of criminal investigations, and testifying in court or before grand juries.
Depending on the agency, a detective or criminal investigator’s work environment ranges from an office setting to city streets. Travel may be required for federal and state agency jobs. At times, law enforcement officers may be required to work in extreme weather conditions. A 40-hour week is typical, but overtime may be required during some investigations. Shift work is common, as the police force is on duty 24 hours a day.
Potential Salary For Detectives and Criminal Investigators
According to BLS data, the median annual salary for detectives and criminal investigators was $62,110 as of May 2009. The middle 50% earned between $47,070 and $83,650, while the lowest 10% brought in around $37,960. Individuals in the highest 10% bracket earned upwards of $99,980 per year. Recent graduates of bachelor’s degree programs will typically start out toward the lower end of the scale. Detectives and criminal investigators with experience and advanced education typically earn the highest salaries.
Education and Training
A detective or criminal investigator career often begins with police officer training. Requirements vary depending on the department or agency, but many seek candidates with at least two years of college education. A four-year degree is preferred by many state and local agencies, and mandatory for most federal jobs.
Police academy training may take from 12 to 14 weeks. Candidates must be U.S. citizens, fall within the agency’s set age limits and have acceptable hearing, vision, agility and strength to be eligible for acceptance. Written examinations, relevant experience and education are usually considered by police academies when evaluating applicants for admission. Individuals who wish to pursue police detective or criminal investigator work are usually required to undergo a background investigation and character profile, and pass a physical fitness test. Some agencies also subject personnel to random drug testing.
The path to a criminal investigator or detective career can begin with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. Coursework typically includes criminal justice ethics, homeland security and terrorism, police organizations and administration, and community policing.
Employers can be confident that graduates of a criminal justice program are able to:
- Demonstrate a global view of the overall process of criminal justice, from investigation and arrest, to court and prisons.
- Apply legal concepts including use of force, search and seizure, and due process.
- Understand delinquency risk factors, diversion and prevention.
- Study crime activity using tested techniques and methods, as well as new technologies.
- Leverage advanced skills and knowledge to succeed in a criminal investigator or detective career.
Many employers offer opportunities for continuing education. It’s possible to gain an entry-level position with a bachelor’s degree and use tuition assistance to further your education.
What Skills Are Required for a Career as a Detective or Criminal Investigator?
Pursuing a career as a criminal investigator, detective or other high-ranking position within a police department requires integrity, a sense of responsibility, good judgment and physical fitness. Mental stability and discipline are also necessary to succeed in this challenging field, as are excellent communication skills and attention to detail. If you possess these traits and have a desire to help keep your community safe from crime, a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice can put you on track for an exciting law enforcement career as a detective or criminal investigator.
