Criminal Investigator job description

A Criminal Investigator is a law enforcement professional who conducts thorough investigations into alleged criminal activities, gathering evidence and building cases for prosecution. They play a critical role in maintaining public safety and upholding justice by ensuring that criminals are held accountable for their actions.

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What is a Criminal Investigator?

A Criminal Investigator is a specialized law enforcement officer responsible for examining and solving crimes through systematic evidence collection, witness interviews, and forensic analysis. They work for various agencies, including local police departments, federal organizations like the FBI, and state bureaus of investigation. Their expertise is essential in piecing together complex criminal puzzles and providing the factual basis for legal proceedings.

What does a Criminal Investigator do?

Criminal Investigators perform a range of duties to solve crimes, including: collecting and analyzing physical evidence from crime scenes, interviewing witnesses and suspects to obtain statements, collaborating with forensic experts to examine evidence such as DNA or fingerprints, preparing detailed reports and case files for prosecutors, testifying in court to present findings, and conducting surveillance or undercover operations to gather intelligence. They also work closely with other law enforcement agencies to coordinate efforts on larger cases.

Job Overview

As a Criminal Investigator, you will conduct complex criminal investigations, gather evidence, interview witnesses and suspects, and build cases for prosecution. This role requires meticulous attention to detail, strong analytical skills, and the ability to work within legal frameworks to support justice system outcomes.

Criminal Investigator responsibilities include:

1. Conduct thorough criminal investigations from initial response to case closure 2. Collect, document, and preserve physical and digital evidence following chain of custody protocols 3. Interview victims, witnesses, and suspects using appropriate interrogation techniques 4. Execute search warrants and arrest warrants in compliance with constitutional requirements 5. Prepare detailed investigative reports and testify in court proceedings 6. Collaborate with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies 7. Utilize surveillance techniques and undercover operations when authorized 8. Analyze financial records for white-collar crime investigations 9. Maintain case files and evidence in accordance with department policies
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Must-Have Requirements

1. Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice, Criminology, or related field 2. Minimum 5 years of law enforcement experience with investigative duties 3. State certification as a peace officer with arrest authority 4. Completion of recognized criminal investigation training program (FLETC, FBI Academy, or equivalent) 5. Valid driver's license and clean driving record 6. Ability to pass extensive background investigation and polygraph examination 7. Proficiency in evidence collection and preservation techniques 8. Strong understanding of constitutional law and criminal procedure

Preferred Qualifications

1. Advanced degree in Criminal Justice or Law 2. Specialized training in specific investigative areas (financial crimes, cyber crimes, homicide) 3. Experience with federal law enforcement agencies (FBI, DEA, ATF) 4. Multilingual capabilities, particularly Spanish 5. Previous courtroom testimony experience 6. Certification in specialized investigative techniques (interview/interrogation, forensic interviewing) 7. Experience with task force operations or multi-jurisdictional investigations

Bonus Skills

1. Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) certification 2. Digital forensics certification and experience with Cellebrite/FTK 3. Advanced tactical firearms training and qualifications 4. Defensive tactics instructor certification 5. Technical surveillance countermeasures training 6. Financial analysis certification for asset tracing 7. Undercover operations experience with documented successful deployments 8. Public speaking and law enforcement training instructor experience

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