Criminal Investigators and Special Agents

• Prepare reports that detail investigation findings.
• Obtain and verify evidence by interviewing and observing suspects and witnesses or by analyzing records.
• Investigate organized crime, public corruption, financial crime, copyright infringement, civil rights violations, bank robbery, extortion, kidnapping, and other violations of federal or state statutes.
• Identify case issues and evidence needed, based on analysis of charges, complaints, or allegations of law violations.
• Record evidence and documents, using equipment such as cameras and photocopy machines.
• Search for and collect evidence, such as fingerprints, using investigative equipment.
• Testify before grand juries concerning criminal activity investigations.
• Obtain and use search and arrest warrants.
• Determine scope, timing, and direction of investigations.
• Collect and record physical information about arrested suspects, including fingerprints, height and weight measurements, and photographs.
• Collaborate with other offices and agencies to exchange information and coordinate activities.
• Analyze evidence in laboratories or in the field.
• Develop relationships with informants to obtain information related to cases.
• Perform undercover assignments and maintain surveillance, including monitoring authorized wiretaps.
• Examine records to locate links in chains of evidence or information.
• Collaborate with other authorities on activities such as surveillance, transcription, and research.
• Serve subpoenas or other official papers.

Source: O*NET OnLine information for Criminal Investigators and Special Agents.

• Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
• Social Perceptiveness - Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
• Speaking - Talking to others to convey information effectively.
• Complex Problem Solving - Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
• Active Listening - Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
• Writing - Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
• Reading Comprehension - Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
• Judgment and Decision Making - Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
• Persuasion - Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.
• Coordination - Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.

Source: O*NET OnLine information for Criminal Investigators and Special Agents.