Detectives and Criminal Investigators
O*NET 33-3021.00 · SOC 33-3021
Detective is a solid career choice. Median pay is $94k a year with +0.2% projected growth through 2035 (slower than average) and about 7,800 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Interview witnesses and suspects to gather case information.
- →Execute search warrants and collect evidence at crime scenes.
- →Analyze surveillance footage to identify criminal suspects.
- →Prepare detailed investigative reports for prosecutors.
- →Coordinate with other agencies on multi-jurisdictional cases.
Education & How to Get In
Most Detective positions require an associate degree or vocational training. Many community colleges and technical schools offer relevant programs that can be completed in 1–2 years, often with hands-on clinical or lab experience built in.
Get Started Learning
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Work Environment
Analytical, research labs, offices, or remote
Independent, focused deep work with periodic team check-ins
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Detective involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Detective?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Detective Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Detectives and Criminal Investigators is projected to grow 0.2% from 2025 to 2035, slower than average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·39% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target
- ·Industry sector with low automation exposure
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Detective make?
The median Detective earns $94k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Detective jobs?
Our model puts Detective at 32 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 39% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target; industry sector with low automation exposure.
Is Detective a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 0.2% between 2025 and 2035, which is slower than average. That works out to roughly 7,800 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Detective?
Most Detective roles expect an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational certificate rather than a four-year degree.
How long does it take to become a Detective?
Typically one to two years, typically an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational program. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 3 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Detective career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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