What Criminal Investigators DoConduct investigations related to suspected violations of federal, state, or local laws to prevent or solve crimes.
- Check victims for signs of life, such as breathing and pulse.
- Obtain facts or statements from complainants, witnesses, and accused persons and record interviews, using recording device.
- Secure deceased body and obtain evidence from it, preventing bystanders from tampering with it prior to medical examiner's arrival.
- Record progress of investigation, maintain informational files on suspects, and submit reports to commanding officer or magistrate to authorize warrants.
- Prepare reports that detail investigation findings.
Criminal Investigators Education, Salary, and GrowthOnly you can decide how much you need to earn — but knowing what it actually costs to live in your area can help. The Family Budget Calculator can guide you.
Minimum EducationHigh School Diploma or GED
Career ProspectsGood (Increasing by 1-5%)
Training Time1 to 2 years
Job Openings7,800 Annually
Median Earnings
$122,140 in California
$93,580 Nationally
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Real Talk Reel
We've curated a playlist for you to get a glimpse into a day in the life of this career.
@prof.anderson.csi
Is This Career Right For You?
YOU Like
- Influencing or leading others
- Thinking and problem solving
- Using data or completing tasks
you value
- Accomplishing things
- Having freedom
- Job security
you are skilled in
- Active Listening
- Critical Thinking
- Social Perceptiveness
- Speaking
- Judgment and Decision Making
- Monitoring
Go Deeper: Criminal Investigators Explained
Criminal InvestigatorExplore career pathways, key skills, and what each role has to offer.
How Do You Train for This Career?
Learn about the education and training paths that can lead to this career — and what to expect from each one.
Vocational SchoolA vocational school typically equips students with specialized skills and practical training in specific trades or occupations, enhancing their employability and providing direct pathways to relevant careers.
🎓 Skills-Focused
⏱️ Finish in 6 months - 2 years
Associate's DegreeAn associate's degree typically provides graduates with foundational knowledge and skills for entry-level jobs in the graduate's industry, or serves as a stepping stone towards further education.
🎓 College
⏱️ Finish in 2-3 years
Bachelor's DegreeA bachelor's degree typically results in increased knowledge about a variety of academic subjects, specialized knowledge in a focused field of study, and is considered the foundational qualification for many careers.
🎓 College
⏱️ Finish in 4-5+ years
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