Typical Tasks
Write reports or case summaries to document investigations.
Search computer databases, credit reports, public records, tax or legal filings, or other resources to locate persons or to compile information for investigations.
Testify at hearings or court trials to present evidence.
Conduct personal background investigations, such as pre-employment checks, to obtain information about an individual's character, financial status, or personal history.
Obtain and analyze information on suspects, crimes, or disturbances to solve cases, to identify criminal activity, or to gather information for court cases.
A day in the life
What kind of work is this?
Conventional
Organized, Procedural Work
Enterprising
Business based Work
Investigative
Studying, Research based work
What personality traits do you need to succeed?
Integrity
Attention to Detail
Dependability
Initiative
Independence
Persistence
What key skills are needed for this job?
Active Listening
Speaking
Reading Comprehension
Critical Thinking
Complex Problem Solving
Writing
Expected Knowledge
English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
Customer and Personal Service
Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
Law and Government
Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.
Common Activities
Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events
Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
Documenting/Recording Information
Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
