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Detectives and Investigators

Detectives and investigators gather facts and evidence for criminal cases.

Detectives and investigators work in state and local police departments. They also work in a variety of federal agencies related to criminal justice such as the FBI and DEA.

Detectives and Investigators are in the Law, Public Safety, and Security career cluster and the Law Enforcement Services pathway.

Quick Facts

Wages:

 Well above the statewide median

$32.34 / hour    Read more about wages

Outlook:

 Percent Growth   1.9%

Below statewide average    Read more about outlook

Education & Training:

 Work experience (in related occupation) is common.

On the Job:

 Work Activities
  • Secure crime scene to prevent tampering of evidence. Alert appropriate medical and police officers, requesting assistance if needed.
  • Preserve, store, and analyze evidence obtained from crime scenes and suspects.
  • Interview witnesses, suspects, and others who have information.
Read more about the job

Assess your skills

Job Title Examples:

 Detective Supervisor,  Fugitive Detective,  Fugitive Investigator 
See more job title examples

Source: Minnesota Department of Education, Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, and CareerOneStop.