Criminal Investigator Job Description Template
Use this Criminal Investigator job description template to advertise the open roles for free using Longlist.io. You can use this template as a starting point, modify the requirements according the needs of your organization or the client you are hiring for.
Job Brief
We are looking for a thorough Criminal Investigator to study crime scenes and identify the guilt of a criminal. You will collect evidence, search, interview, interrogate and apply various investigation methods. The successful candidate will be able to employ modern scientific techniques in order to determine and illuminate the truth about how a crime occurred.
Responsibilities
- Process crime scenes by performing scene recognition, scene documentation and evidence collection
- Operate within the applicable laws governing the investigations
- Initiate preliminary survey, generate initial theories and keep the ones that are not eliminated by incoming information
- Thoroughly document scenes and gather potential evidences (physical, specimens, documents, photographs, statements etc) to send to crime lab
- Examine and evaluate evidence for conflicting interpretations and resolve issues
- Draft detailed investigative reports and be prepared to present evidence to the prosecutor
- Find that nuance or piece of information that will be the crucial break
- Identify, apprehend and prosecute the perpetrators
Requirements
- Proven working experience as Criminal Investigator
- Hands-on experience with crime scenes analysis and forensic science
- Proficient in interpreting evidence and reconstructing events
- Ability to observe minute details and to produce detailed reports
- In depth knowledge of criminal law, rules and legislation
- Familiarity with all evidence types (e.g. circumstantial, direct, trace, hearsay etc) and the rules governing their admissibility
- Thorough understanding of the investigation process and the unique circumstances of each case
- Strong analytical skills along with good interviewing and interrogation skills
- Honest and ethical with high levels of integrity and confidentiality
- BS degree in forensic science, criminal law, criminology or relevant field
What does Criminal Investigator do?
On a day-to-day basis, a Criminal Investigator typically performs a range of tasks that can vary depending on their specific role and the stage of the investigation. Here are some common activities:
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Gathering Information: Investigators often start their day by reviewing case files, reports, and evidence collected in previous investigations. They also gather new information from various sources such as witnesses, informants, or surveillance operations.
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Interviewing and Interrogating: Investigators conduct interviews with witnesses, victims, and suspects to gather additional information and to assess their credibility. They may also conduct interrogations of suspects, aiming to gather evidence or elicit a confession.
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Collecting Evidence: Investigators visit crime scenes to collect and analyze different types of evidence such as fingerprints, DNA, weapons, or surveillance footage. They carefully document and collect evidence, ensuring proper chain of custody to maintain its integrity.
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Conducting Surveillance: Investigators often engage in surveillance activities to monitor suspects, gather evidence, identify patterns, or determine their associations. This can involve physical surveillance or the use of technological tools such as video or audio recording devices.
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Analyzing Data and Evidence: Investigators review and analyze collected information and evidence to identify patterns, connections, and potential leads. They may use specialized software or database systems to process data effectively.
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Collaborating with Other Agencies: Criminal investigators often collaborate with other law enforcement agencies, forensic experts, and legal professionals. They share information, coordinate efforts, and seek specialized expertise when needed.
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Preparing Reports and Documentation: Investigators maintain detailed records of their activities, observations, and findings. They prepare reports, affidavits, and other documentation necessary for court proceedings or further investigations.
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Testifying in Court: Investigators may be called upon to testify as expert witnesses, presenting their findings, interpretations, and conclusions in legal proceedings.
It's important to note that the specific tasks performed by a Criminal Investigator can vary depending on their specialization within law enforcement, such as homicide, fraud, cybercrime, narcotics, or financial crimes.