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Investigations Officers

Law, Public Safety, Corrections & Security

Service Branches

  • Army logo
  • Marines logo
  • Air Force logo
  • Coast Guard logo

Work Environment

Investigations officers in the Military usually work in offices while planning and directing law enforcement and security activities. They may work outdoors while directing investigations observing prisoners and inspecting security systems.

  • Military Status

    Officer

  • Average Military Salary

    $99,232

Overview

Investigations officers oversee operations involved in investigating any criminal allegations and offenses that threaten the safety of military personnel, property, resources, or facilities. Investigations officers or their staff examine the scene of an incident and collect and submit all relevant physical evidence (fingerprints, blood stains, suspected narcotics, castings, documents) to a crime laboratory. They study and evaluate the evidence to determine motives and responsible individuals, develop investigative plans, and prepare reports of investigations.

Military Training

Officers typically enter the Military after they have completed a four-year college degree; enlisted service members can transition to officer positions through a variety of pathways and earn a degree while serving.   Job training for investigations officers primarily consists of classroom instruction and on-the-job learning in various training environments.  Like other officers they complete a comprehensive training program covering responsibilities military structure and etiquette traditions and leadership development. Job-specific training content may include:  

  • Military law
  • Law enforcement administration
  • Management of security problems
  • Investigation procedures and reporting
  • Crime scene processing
  • Testimonial evidence
  • Protective services
  • Crisis/Hostage negotiations

Helpful Attributes

  • Interest in law enforcement and crime prevention
  • Interest in planning and directing the work of others
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Critical thinking and problem solving skills

Related Civilian Careers

  • Police Identification and Records Officers
  • Supervisors of Police and Detectives