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Detectives and Criminal Investigators

SOC 33-3021.00Job Zone 3 · Medium Preparationv.26.05

Context coveredThis framework covers sworn detective and criminal investigator practice across crime scene response, evidence handling, witness interviewing, report preparation, court documentation, and investigative leadership in law enforcement agency environments.

Sources:O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.SkillsCrosswalkSkillsCrosswalk — O*NET enrichment + adjacency index. Opens in new tab.
Emerging
Entry / Apprentice
  1. Victim condition assessment — check for signs of life such as breathing and pulse under direct supervision at an initial crime scene response.
  2. Witness statements — record basic facts and accounts from complainants using a department-issued recording device while accompanied by a senior investigator.
  3. Crime scene perimeter — assist in securing a deceased body and surrounding area to prevent bystander tampering prior to the medical examiner's arrival.
  4. Incident summary — receive and document a verbal briefing from the officer in charge at a crime scene while following strict protocols to avoid disturbing evidence.
  5. Evidence containers — place collected items of evidence into proper labeled containers under direct guidance at a controlled crime scene.
  6. Investigation notes — maintain basic informational entries on suspects in a department case file using office suite software under supervisor review.
  7. Preliminary reports — draft initial written summaries of investigation findings using standardized templates and submit for supervisory correction.
  8. Legal procedures — identify the correct formalized procedures for preparing charges or responses to charges with guidance from a senior investigator.
  9. Active listening — apply foundational listening techniques during witness interviews to capture accurate information in a law enforcement setting.
  10. Case management software — enter case data into database user interface and query software under instruction to support active investigation tracking.
Developing
Mid-level / Established
  1. Vital signs evaluation — assess victims for signs of life and relay findings to responding medical personnel and supervisors at multi-unit crime scenes.
  2. Recorded interviews — independently conduct and record interviews with complainants, witnesses, and accused persons using department-approved recording devices.
  3. Body and evidence security — secure a deceased body and associated physical evidence, managing bystanders and coordinating with the medical examiner's office upon arrival.
  4. Suspect file maintenance — maintain and update informational files on suspects and record investigation progress using project management software with reduced oversight.
  5. Investigation reports — prepare detailed written reports of investigation findings that meet departmental standards for clarity, accuracy, and legal sufficiency.
  6. Warrant documentation — compile and submit reports to a commanding officer or magistrate to support authorization of search or arrest warrants.
  7. Evidence preservation — preserve, process, and catalog items of evidence from crime scenes using correct chain-of-custody procedures in a field and laboratory setting.
  8. Scene briefing integration — obtain and synthesize incident summaries from officers in charge at crime scenes, identifying key facts while protecting evidence integrity.
  9. Inductive reasoning — analyze patterns across witness accounts and physical evidence to develop investigative leads in routine criminal cases.
  10. Interagency coordination — coordinate scheduling and information sharing with other units or agencies using electronic mail software and office suite tools.
Proficient
Senior / Expert IC
  1. Complex victim assessment — evaluate victim condition, document medical status, and direct initial scene response activities autonomously across multi-victim or ambiguous crime scenes.
  2. Multi-party interview management — independently plan and conduct structured interviews with complainants, witnesses, and accused persons, applying social perceptiveness and persuasion techniques to elicit reliable statements.
  3. Scene integrity management — lead the full securing of a crime scene including body preservation, evidence protection, and coordination with the medical examiner without supervisory oversight.
  4. Investigative file systems — design and maintain comprehensive suspect and case files across long-term investigations using database query software and geographic information systems.
  5. Court-ready reporting — author thorough investigative reports and prepare charges or formal legal responses according to established procedures for submission in criminal court proceedings.
  6. Evidence chain of custody — independently oversee the full lifecycle of evidence — from collection and analysis to destruction of unneeded items — ensuring legal admissibility in a courtroom environment.
  7. Analytical software application — apply analytical or scientific software to synthesize crime scene data, behavioral patterns, and investigative leads in complex or non-routine criminal cases.
  8. Deductive case strategy — apply deductive reasoning across full case files to prioritize suspects, eliminate false leads, and recommend investigative direction to supervisory personnel.
  9. Critical incident judgment — exercise autonomous judgment and decision making under stress in rapidly evolving field situations involving public safety and legal implications.
  10. Community intelligence — leverage service orientation and psychological knowledge to cultivate informant networks and gather intelligence within diverse community environments.
Advanced
Lead / Principal / Executive
  1. Investigative unit leadership — direct the full operational strategy of a detective unit, setting investigative priorities and allocating resources across concurrent complex criminal cases.
  2. Policy and protocol development — develop and institutionalize interview, evidence-handling, and reporting protocols that align with current law and government standards across the organization.
  3. Mentor and training oversight — coach and evaluate junior investigators in field techniques, report writing, and legal compliance, accelerating their progression from emerging to proficient performance.
  4. High-stakes court coordination — lead the preparation of charges, legal responses, and expert testimony strategies for high-profile or complex prosecutions in collaboration with legal counsel.
  5. Cross-agency intelligence strategy — establish information-sharing frameworks and joint investigative task forces with federal, state, and local agencies using GIS and network monitoring tools.
  6. Organizational performance monitoring — monitor unit-level investigation outcomes, clearance rates, and compliance metrics, reporting findings to command leadership and recommending systemic improvements.
  7. Executive-level judgment — exercise final-authority judgment on legally sensitive decisions — including warrant applications and evidence destruction — with full accountability for organizational and legal outcomes.
  8. Technology integration leadership — evaluate and deploy emerging investigative technologies such as analytical software, photo imaging tools, and mapping platforms to modernize departmental investigative capacity.
  9. Public safety policy influence — represent the investigative function in intergovernmental forums, contributing expertise to shape public safety and security policy at the organizational or jurisdictional level.
  10. Organizational integrity stewardship — model and enforce standards of integrity, cautiousness, and ethical conduct across the investigative division, establishing a culture of dependability and professional accountability.

AI-at-Work Competency Framework

Sources:Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Authoritative source data identified for 998 occupations

How a worker at each mastery level uses, directs, and evaluates AI tools in this occupation. Each statement cites its evidence inline; click a citation chip to verify the source.

Emerging
  1. AI-assisted report drafting — uses an LLM to convert raw investigative notes into structured incident reports, reviewing each output for factual accuracy before submission Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. Basic record search delegation — prompts an AI tool to compile publicly available background information on suspects, then cross-checks results against official databases Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
Developing
  1. Interview transcript summarization — feeds recorded witness and complainant interviews into an AI assistant to produce condensed summaries, reserving judgment on credibility and inconsistencies for personal review Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
  2. Suspect file organization — directs an AI tool to sort and tag informational files on suspects by date, incident type, and evidentiary links, while retaining authority over case prioritization WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  3. Warrant report generation — uses an LLM to draft preliminary report language for commanding officers or magistrates, editing the output to ensure legal precision and chain-of-custody accuracy Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
Proficient
  1. Evidence pattern analysis — runs AI-assisted cross-referencing of case files and prior incident reports to surface connections across multiple suspects or crime scenes, validating every flagged link against physical evidence Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  2. Investigative timeline construction — directs an AI assistant to assemble chronological event timelines from disparate witness statements and documentary records, then audits the sequence for logical and evidentiary gaps Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
  3. Active listening augmentation — applies AI transcription and sentiment-flagging tools during post-interview review to highlight verbal inconsistencies, while conducting all live interviews without AI mediation given the occupation's Q2 augmentation profile Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  4. High-volume document triage — leverages AI to process large document sets (financial records, communication logs) and surface anomalies, redirecting investigator attention to highest-yield leads and achieving substantial time savings on routine review Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
Advanced
  1. AI autonomy governance — sets explicit boundaries on AI task scope within investigative workflows, ensuring that AI-generated outputs (reports, suspect links, timelines) are never submitted as findings without detective verification, consistent with the occupation's low collaborative AI share and human-centered legal accountability Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  2. Cross-case intelligence synthesis — orchestrates AI tools to aggregate and analyze patterns across multiple open investigations simultaneously, then applies critical thinking and social perceptiveness to convert AI-surfaced hypotheses into actionable investigative strategy Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  3. AI workflow design for investigative units — develops team-level protocols for integrating AI-assisted drafting, record search, and evidence indexing into detective operations, training junior investigators on output validation standards and appropriate delegation boundaries Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Evidence pack
AEI usage
Task observations: 68
Augment share: 6.8%
Time saved: 77.4%
AI autonomy: 3.31
SAFI positioning
Top skill: Active Listening
Score: 42.2 / 100
Quadrant: Q2_ai_augmented
precision: exact
WEF cluster
Technology Use, Monitoring and Control
technology_use_monitoring_control
Sources:Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.

Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework

Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Ten durable-skill domains mapped to four proficiency/role levels for each occupation. Each statement is aligned to the Pathsmith taxonomy, derived from trusted grounding data and mapped to occupation-specific O*NET tasks and skills.

1Communication12 statements
Emerging
  1. Witness interview basics — conducts initial structured interviews with complainants and witnesses using prepared questions to capture factual accounts Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Incident summary documentation — records basic details of crime scene briefings from officers in charge in written notes with minimal omissions O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Report drafting fundamentals — prepares draft investigation reports using department templates to document preliminary findings Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Recorded statement collection — obtains and accurately records statements from witnesses, complainants, and accused persons using audio or video recording devices in compliance with procedural standards O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Investigative report writing — prepares clear, factually precise reports detailing investigation progress and findings for submission to commanding officers Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Cross-audience explanation — conveys case-relevant information to complainants, legal counsel, and commanding officers adjusting technical language to each audience Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Court case documentation — prepares detailed charges, responses to charges, and evidentiary summaries for court proceedings in compliance with formalized legal procedures O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Suspect and victim communication — elicits credible information from hostile, traumatized, or evasive subjects by applying adaptive questioning techniques and active listening in high-stakes interviews Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Multi-agency briefing — delivers clear verbal summaries of case status and investigative leads to commanding officers, prosecutors, and partner agencies to coordinate action Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Expert testimony delivery — presents complex investigative findings and chain-of-custody evidence narratives clearly and authoritatively in courtroom settings under cross-examination O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Communication standards mentorship — coaches junior investigators on interview technique, report structure, and legal documentation standards to elevate unit-wide communication quality Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Strategic case narrative construction — synthesizes multi-source evidence into a cohesive, legally defensible written narrative that withstands prosecutorial and defense scrutiny Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
2Leadership10 statements
Emerging
  1. Scene responsibility assumption — takes initiative to secure and protect a crime scene perimeter upon arrival pending senior investigator direction Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Task self-direction — identifies next investigative steps independently within assigned case parameters without requiring constant supervisor guidance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Witness coordination — directs complainants, bystanders, and first responders at the scene to appropriate locations and roles to preserve evidence integrity Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Case file ownership — maintains complete and current informational files on suspects and case progress, taking accountability for record accuracy submitted to commanding officers Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Investigation team coordination — assigns evidence collection, interview, and surveillance tasks to patrol officers and support staff supporting a complex investigation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Warrant authorization leadership — prepares and submits warrant applications to magistrates, taking full accountability for the accuracy and legal sufficiency of supporting documentation O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Scene command — assumes operational leadership at major crime scenes, directing evidence preservation, personnel positioning, and medical examiner coordination Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Unit investigative leadership — leads a team of investigators across multiple concurrent cases, setting priorities, reviewing case files, and ensuring investigative quality standards Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Mentorship and professional development — develops investigative competency in junior detectives through structured case reviews, field coaching, and constructive performance feedback Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Cross-agency initiative leadership — leads joint task force investigations coordinating personnel, resources, and information sharing across multiple law enforcement jurisdictions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
3Metacognition9 statements
Emerging
  1. Investigative assumption awareness — identifies personal assumptions about suspect guilt or witness credibility before they influence evidence interpretation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Learning gap recognition — acknowledges gaps in knowledge of legal statutes or evidentiary procedures and seeks supervisory or legal guidance proactively Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Interview strategy reflection — evaluates the effectiveness of questioning approaches after witness or suspect interviews and adjusts technique for subsequent interactions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Error pattern recognition — reviews past investigative reports to identify recurring documentation errors or procedural missteps and self-corrects before submission Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Cognitive bias monitoring — actively monitors for confirmation bias during evidence analysis, deliberately seeking disconfirming information before drawing investigative conclusions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Case strategy self-assessment — evaluates the strength and direction of an investigation at defined milestones and recalibrates approach based on evidence weight and legal viability Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Learning transfer application — applies lessons from concluded case outcomes to improve evidence handling, interview strategy, or report quality in active investigations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Systemic thinking evaluation — reflects on unit-wide investigative practices to identify structural blind spots or procedural weaknesses and proposes policy-level improvements Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Metacognitive coaching — guides junior investigators to examine their own reasoning processes, identify cognitive shortcuts, and develop deliberate evidence-evaluation habits Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
4Critical Thinking11 statements
Emerging
  1. Evidence classification — categorizes physical items collected at a crime scene by type and relevance to the known facts of the incident Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Witness account comparison — identifies basic consistencies and discrepancies across multiple witness statements to flag areas requiring follow-up Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Evidence-to-hypothesis linking — analyzes physical evidence and testimonial accounts to generate and test competing explanations for a criminal incident Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Assumption identification — evaluates informant or witness statements to distinguish verified facts from assumptions, rumors, and speculation before incorporating into case files Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Legal threshold assessment — assesses whether accumulated evidence meets the probable cause standard required to support warrant applications O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Complex problem solving in cold cases — reanalyzes previously collected evidence using updated forensic techniques and unresolved lead threads to generate actionable investigative directions O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Multi-source evidence synthesis — integrates forensic, testimonial, digital, and surveillance evidence streams into a coherent factual account that identifies the most probable sequence of criminal events Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Deceptive account detection — applies behavioral, linguistic, and factual inconsistency analysis to identify deception in suspect or witness statements during recorded interviews Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Investigative framework design — develops case-specific analytical frameworks for complex or organized crime investigations that structure evidence evaluation across multiple suspects and timelines Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Legal reasoning validation — critically evaluates the logical and evidentiary sufficiency of charges and case materials prepared for prosecution, identifying weaknesses before court submission Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Cross-case pattern analysis — identifies linked offenses across disparate case files by critically analyzing modus operandi, geographic, and temporal patterns Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
5Collaboration10 statements
Emerging
  1. First responder coordination — receives crime scene briefings from patrol officers and clarifies information gaps through respectful, focused dialogue Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Support agency communication — interacts cooperatively with medical examiners, forensic technicians, and dispatch personnel to fulfill immediate scene requirements Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Multi-unit evidence sharing — coordinates with forensic lab personnel to submit, track, and retrieve evidence items while maintaining chain-of-custody documentation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Prosecutor collaboration — works with district attorneys or prosecutors to align charge preparation with evidentiary findings and procedural requirements Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Informant relationship management — builds and maintains cooperative relationships with community informants to sustain reliable intelligence pipelines across active investigations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Joint task force participation — contributes investigative findings, case intelligence, and operational plans within multi-agency task forces while respecting jurisdictional boundaries Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Victim services coordination — collaborates with victim advocates and social services personnel to ensure complainant needs are addressed without compromising investigative integrity Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Parallel investigation synchronization — coordinates concurrent investigative workstreams across detective pairs or teams to prevent duplication and ensure comprehensive evidence coverage Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Inter-agency intelligence integration — leads collaborative intelligence-sharing sessions with federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to unify investigative strategy on high-profile cases Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Collaborative framework establishment — designs formalized inter-unit protocols for joint investigations that clarify roles, evidence ownership, and communication channels Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
6Character10 statements
Emerging
  1. Evidence integrity adherence — handles and stores collected evidence according to chain-of-custody procedures, refusing shortcuts that could compromise evidentiary value Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Truthful documentation — records witness statements and scene observations accurately and without embellishment in official reports submitted to supervisors Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Warrant accuracy accountability — takes personal responsibility for the factual accuracy of all information submitted to magistrates in support of warrant applications, acknowledging and correcting errors Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Impartial suspect treatment — conducts investigations without prejudice toward suspects based on demographic characteristics, applying equal procedural rigor regardless of case profile Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Confidentiality maintenance — protects sensitive case information, informant identities, and victim details from unauthorized disclosure in compliance with legal and departmental standards Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Ethical evidence handling — refuses to pursue, misrepresent, or destroy evidence that would compromise case integrity, even under organizational or political pressure Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Transparent case reporting — submits complete and unfiltered investigation findings to commanding officers including results that contradict initial assumptions or departmental expectations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Victim dignity preservation — secures deceased persons and interacts with survivors and families with professional respect, protecting dignity throughout investigative processes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Ethical culture modeling — demonstrates and enforces investigative integrity standards within the unit, addressing misconduct or procedural violations through appropriate channels Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Accountability under scrutiny — maintains transparent and defensible documentation practices under legal review, internal affairs inquiry, or public oversight without altering records Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
7Creativity9 statements
Emerging
  1. Alternative lead generation — proposes alternative investigative angles when initial evidence collection yields insufficient leads to progress a case Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Unconventional source identification — identifies non-traditional information sources such as social media, surveillance footage, or financial records to supplement standard investigative approaches Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Surveillance strategy design — devises creative covert observation plans tailored to specific suspect behaviors, locations, and operational constraints Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Evidence gap bridging — develops novel evidentiary approaches to connect circumstantial evidence threads when direct evidence is unavailable or inadmissible Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Cold case reactivation strategy — designs new investigative approaches for stalled cases by applying emerging forensic technologies, reinterviewing witnesses with updated questioning frameworks, or reanalyzing archived evidence Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Undercover scenario construction — creates operationally plausible undercover personas and interaction scenarios to infiltrate criminal networks without detection Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Digital evidence strategy — develops creative approaches to legally obtain and interpret digital evidence trails across social media, financial systems, and communications platforms Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Investigative methodology innovation — pioneers new case-specific investigative techniques or analytical frameworks that improve evidence yield and are adopted across the unit Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Complex network disruption design — creates multi-phase investigative strategies targeting organized criminal networks through creative coordination of surveillance, informants, and financial investigation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
8Growth Mindset10 statements
Emerging
  1. Procedural feedback receptivity — accepts corrective feedback from supervising detectives on report quality, interview technique, or evidence handling and applies changes in subsequent tasks Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Unfamiliar case type engagement — approaches assignment to an unfamiliar crime category as a learning opportunity rather than a source of avoidance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Setback reframing — treats a collapsed case or inadmissible evidence ruling as an analytical opportunity to identify procedural gaps and strengthen future investigations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Skill gap pursuit — independently seeks training in forensic technology, legal updates, or interview methodology to address identified competency gaps Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Peer learning engagement — actively observes and incorporates investigative approaches used by experienced colleagues on joint cases Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Long-duration case persistence — sustains investigative effort and analytical engagement across months-long investigations without allowing progress plateaus to diminish case commitment Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Acquittal lesson integration — analyzes case outcomes following not-guilty verdicts or dropped charges to identify evidentiary or procedural improvements applicable to future cases Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Emerging technology adoption — learns and integrates new forensic, surveillance, or case management technologies into investigative practice as they become available Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Resilience culture modeling — normalizes learning from investigative failures within the unit, creating a team environment where setbacks are systematically analyzed rather than concealed Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Continuous improvement leadership — leads after-action reviews of major investigations to extract institutional learning and implement procedural enhancements across the detective unit Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
9Mindfulness10 statements
Emerging
  1. Crime scene attention management — maintains deliberate focus on evidence observation at complex scenes, resisting distraction from bystander activity or emotional scene content Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Emotional self-monitoring — recognizes personal emotional responses to graphic crime scene conditions and manages reactivity to maintain professional composure Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Interview presence — sustains focused, active attention during lengthy witness or suspect interviews, detecting verbal and nonverbal cues that signal deception or distress Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Stress response regulation — applies intentional cognitive regulation techniques when managing high-pressure scenes involving deceased victims or volatile suspects Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Decision pacing — pauses before executing irreversible investigative actions such as arrests or evidence destruction to verify procedural and legal sufficiency Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Sustained situational awareness — maintains continuous environmental awareness during field operations, monitoring for safety threats, witness behavior changes, and evidence disturbance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Emotionally regulated victim interaction — engages with traumatized victims and bereaved families with deliberate empathic attentiveness, managing personal emotional activation to keep focus on the subject's needs Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Intentional documentation review — reviews reports, warrant applications, and court materials with disciplined attention to detect factual errors or legal deficiencies before submission Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Mindfulness under prolonged operational stress — maintains investigative precision and ethical judgment across extended high-stakes investigations involving cumulative trauma exposure and institutional pressure Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Team attention calibration — coaches investigators to recognize attention fatigue and emotional reactivity in field operations and models strategies for restoring focused professional engagement Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
10Fortitude11 statements
Emerging
  1. Graphic scene exposure tolerance — maintains professional function at disturbing crime scenes involving deceased or injured victims without withdrawing from assigned investigative duties Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Initial case frustration management — continues evidence collection and documentation efforts when early investigative leads produce no actionable results Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Sustained investigative effort — pursues active case threads consistently over weeks-long investigations despite resource constraints, lack of witnesses, and evidentiary ambiguity Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Hostile subject management — maintains calm, professional composure and procedural adherence during confrontational interviews with aggressive or threatening suspects Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Institutional pressure resistance — continues impartial investigation practices when facing organizational, political, or public pressure to reach a predetermined case conclusion Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Long-term case perseverance — sustains investigative momentum on cold cases or protracted organized crime investigations over months or years without certainty of resolution Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. High-stakes decision courage — makes timely and decisive investigative judgments under conditions of incomplete information, operational risk, and legal consequence Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Trauma exposure continuity — continues performing at investigative standard across repeated exposure to crime scene trauma, victim suffering, and violent death without sustained performance degradation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Adversity-anchored leadership — models resilience for the investigative unit during high-profile case failures, departmental crises, or prolonged operational strain by maintaining steady professional focus Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Whistleblower courage — reports observed investigative misconduct, evidence tampering, or civil rights violations through proper channels despite personal and professional risk Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Systemic resistance navigation — sustains ethical investigative practice and case integrity in the face of bureaucratic obstruction, political interference, or resource denial over extended periods Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
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Source anchors that ground each statement

Related titles
Air Marshal · Burglary Investigator · Child Support Agent · Child Support Investigator · Child Support Officer · CIA Agent (Central Intelligence Agency Agent) · City Detective · Counter Intelligence Agent · Crime Analyst · Crime Investigator Special Agent · Crime Scene Investigator (CSI) · Criminal Analyst
RAPIDS apprenticeships
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O*NET skills
Active ListeningSpeakingCritical ThinkingSocial PerceptivenessReading ComprehensionComplex Problem SolvingJudgment and Decision MakingCoordinationService OrientationActive LearningMonitoringWritingPersuasionNegotiationTime Management
Knowledge domains
Law and GovernmentPublic Safety and SecurityEnglish LanguageCustomer and Personal ServicePsychologyComputers and ElectronicsEducation and TrainingAdministrativeAdministration and ManagementCommunications and MediaSociology and Anthropology
Abilities
Oral ComprehensionInductive ReasoningOral ExpressionDeductive ReasoningProblem SensitivityWritten ComprehensionInformation OrderingNear VisionSpeech RecognitionSpeech Clarity
Work styles
Stress ToleranceDependabilityIntegrityAttention to DetailCautiousnessPerseverance
Technology
Network monitoring softwareGraphics or photo imaging softwareProject management softwareOffice suite softwareMap creation softwareData base user interface and query softwareElectronic mail softwareGeographic information systemAnalytical or scientific softwareOperating system software
Tasks · seed anchors for statements
  1. Check victims for signs of life, such as breathing and pulse.
  2. Obtain facts or statements from complainants, witnesses, and accused persons and record interviews, using recording device.
  3. Secure deceased body and obtain evidence from it, preventing bystanders from tampering with it prior to medical examiner's arrival.
  4. Record progress of investigation, maintain informational files on suspects, and submit reports to commanding officer or magistrate to authorize warrants.
  5. Prepare reports that detail investigation findings.
  6. Prepare charges or responses to charges, or information for court cases, according to formalized procedures.
  7. Preserve, process, and analyze items of evidence obtained from crime scenes and suspects, placing them in proper containers and destroying evidence no longer needed.
  8. Obtain summary of incident from officer in charge at crime scene, taking care to avoid disturbing evidence.
CIP education codes
03.020829.020343.010043.010743.011443.011543.012143.012243.012343.040243.040343.040543.040743.0408

Sources: O*NET v30.2 (CC BY 4.0), SkillsCrosswalk.com, LER.me, Anthropic Economic Index, SAFI (Jadhav & Danve, 2026), WEF Skills Taxonomy 2021, Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework. © 2026 EBSCOed.