Detectives and Criminal Investigators
Conduct investigations related to suspected violations of federal, state, or local laws to prevent or solve crimes.
How to read this profile
BLS projects U.S. employment for Detectives and Criminal Investigators to increase by 0.2% between 2024 and 2034, from 120,500 to 120,700 jobs. Its estimate of 7,800 annual openings includes replacement needs, so it does not represent current vacancies, contract postings, or freelance demand. The wage ($93,790), education (High school diploma or equivalent), and related experience (Less than 5 years) figures on this profile describe typical U.S. employees. O*NET skills describe the occupation; they do not assess an individual worker's proficiency.
Base employment (2024)
120,500
Projected employment (2034)
120,700
Projected change (2024–2034)
0%
Annual openings (projected average)
7,800
Pay & Preparation
$93,790
High school diploma or equivalent
Less than 5 years
Moderate-term on-the-job training
Essential Skills
Active Listening (4.5/5) • Speaking (4.25/5) • Reading Comprehension (4.25/5) • Critical Thinking (4.12/5) • Active Listening (4.12/5) • Social Perceptiveness (4.12/5)
O*NET describes occupational requirements; these ratings do not measure current job-posting frequency or an individual worker’s proficiency.
BLS projections are long-term estimates; annual openings include growth and replacement needs and are not current vacancies.
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