Conduct investigations related to suspected violations of federal, state, or local laws to prevent or solve crimes.
SOC: 33-3021.00
Common Job Titles
Criminal Investigator
Detective
Investigator
Special Agent
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
KnowledgeAssess criminal cases for compliance with federal, state, and local laws independently reviewing evidence and legal standards to determine prosecutorial viability.
Advanced
KnowledgeSynthesize multi-source intelligence from law enforcement databases and field investigations to construct comprehensive case narratives and identify criminal networks.
Advanced
KnowledgeAnalyze crime scene evidence and investigative data using forensic tools and law enforcement databases to identify suspects and patterns.
Proficient
KnowledgeEvaluate witness statements and suspect testimonies applying critical thinking and social perceptiveness to determine credibility and detect deception.
Proficient
KnowledgeDevelop investigative strategies and case objectives synthesizing public safety knowledge and criminal psychology to prevent and solve crimes.
Proficient
MindsetEngage with victims, witnesses, and community members demonstrating service orientation and empathy during high-stress criminal investigations.
Proficient
MindsetIntegrate ethical standards with public safety priorities when balancing investigative thoroughness with respect for civil rights and due process.
Proficient
MindsetAdvocate for crime victims' rights and needs throughout the investigative and judicial process, coordinating with interdisciplinary support teams.
Proficient
Hands-onOperate crime scene investigation equipment and forensic collection tools following chain-of-custody protocols to preserve evidence integrity.
Proficient
Hands-onExecute surveillance operations and field interviews using audio/video recording equipment and mobile data computers under varying field conditions.
Proficient
KnowledgeInterpret forensic reports, ballistics data, and fingerprint analysis for judicial proceedings, collaborating with prosecutors and expert witnesses.
Proficient
MindsetBalance investigative urgency with inter-agency collaboration requirements when coordinating with federal, state, and local law enforcement partners on complex cases.
Proficient
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Detectives and Criminal Investigators (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
110,790
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $54,160. 25th percentile: U.S. $68,390. 50th percentile: U.S. $93,580. 75th percentile: U.S. $120,080. 90th percentile: U.S. $159,410. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$54,160
10% of workers earn the following or more
$159,410
Workers on average earn
$98,770
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Law and Government4.8/5
Public Safety and Security4.6/5
English Language4.2/5
Customer and Personal Service4.0/5
Psychology3.9/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
