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Special investigation unit investigator vs criminal investigator

The differences between special investigation unit investigators and criminal investigators can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. Additionally, a criminal investigator has an average salary of $54,520, which is higher than the $49,213 average annual salary of a special investigation unit investigator.

The top three skills for a special investigation unit investigator include management system, BSA/AML and fincen. The most important skills for a criminal investigator are investigative reports, resourcefulness, and firearms.

Special investigation unit investigator vs criminal investigator overview

Special Investigation Unit InvestigatorCriminal Investigator
Yearly salary$49,213$54,520
Hourly rate$23.66$26.21
Growth rate3%3%
Number of jobs30,7705,131
Job satisfaction--
Most common degreeBachelor's Degree, 63%Bachelor's Degree, 59%
Average age4444
Years of experience2-

What does a special investigation unit investigator do?

A special investigation unit investigator works at an insurance company to detect and thwart fraudulent claims and activities. To carry out their duties, they must coordinate with staff to gather and analyze client information, perform research and analysis, travel to different sites to observe and investigate, and conduct interviews as needed. They may also investigate employees, examine their actions and information. Moreover, a special investigation unit investigator must maintain an active communication line with staff for an efficient and smooth workflow.

What does a criminal investigator do?

A criminal investigator is a law enforcement professional who endeavors to solve felony crimes. Criminal investigators may work alone or as a member of an investigative team whose goal is to uncover the certainty of a case and potentially keep suspects to prevent the ensuing criminal activity. Their tasks and responsibilities depend on various job functions and specialties. They may specialize in the information and evidence of a crime scene, conduct interviews and searches, or perform surveillance.

Special investigation unit investigator vs criminal investigator salary

Special investigation unit investigators and criminal investigators have different pay scales, as shown below.

Special Investigation Unit InvestigatorCriminal Investigator
Average salary$49,213$54,520
Salary rangeBetween $32,000 And $74,000Between $34,000 And $85,000
Highest paying City-Washington, DC
Highest paying state-California
Best paying company-National Railroad Passenger Corporation
Best paying industry-Government

Differences between special investigation unit investigator and criminal investigator education

There are a few differences between a special investigation unit investigator and a criminal investigator in terms of educational background:

Special Investigation Unit InvestigatorCriminal Investigator
Most common degreeBachelor's Degree, 63%Bachelor's Degree, 59%
Most common majorCriminal JusticeCriminal Justice
Most common college--

Special investigation unit investigator vs criminal investigator demographics

Here are the differences between special investigation unit investigators' and criminal investigators' demographics:

Special Investigation Unit InvestigatorCriminal Investigator
Average age4444
Gender ratioMale, 63.0% Female, 37.0%Male, 79.7% Female, 20.3%
Race ratioBlack or African American, 12.1% Unknown, 5.0% Hispanic or Latino, 17.2% Asian, 2.8% White, 62.3% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.7%Black or African American, 11.8% Unknown, 5.0% Hispanic or Latino, 16.9% Asian, 2.8% White, 62.8% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.7%
LGBT Percentage9%9%

Differences between special investigation unit investigator and criminal investigator duties and responsibilities

Special investigation unit investigator example responsibilities.

  • Gather and analyze pertinent documentation, collect recorded statements, report fraud, and manage data in support of subsequent litigation.
  • Prepare cases for and follow through with civil litigation and criminal prosecution in multiple jurisdictions.
  • Participate in BSA/AML seminars and workshops to enhance knowledge on industry trends.
  • Prepare and serve subpoenas, rockland area, together with affidavits of service.
  • Secure subpoenas with the assistance of counsel for financial information, video surveillance and cellular records.
  • Perform detailed analytical account investigations pertaining to potential BSA/AML violations.
  • Show more

Criminal investigator example responsibilities.

  • Conduct joint planning and manage AFOSI's criminal investigations and counterintelligence operations in northern Italy.
  • Close accounts and file SAR's with FinCEN as warranted.
  • Write suspicious activity reports (SAR).
  • Follow up on sub reviews and documentation require information for FinCEN reporting.
  • Coordinate and conduct firearms training.
  • Examine discovery, prepare subpoenas, and review pertinent documents.
  • Show more

Special investigation unit investigator vs criminal investigator skills

Common special investigation unit investigator skills
  • Management System, 13%
  • BSA/AML, 9%
  • FinCEN, 7%
  • Anti-Money Laundering, 7%
  • Law Enforcement Agencies, 7%
  • Conduct Investigations, 7%
Common criminal investigator skills
  • Investigative Reports, 13%
  • Resourcefulness, 11%
  • Firearms, 11%
  • Treasury, 9%
  • Investigative Techniques, 8%
  • IRS, 6%

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