Detectives

Detectives investigate serious crimes, such as terrorism, homicide, armed robbery, vice and arson, and gather evidence to arrest and prosecute suspected offenders.

  • The Job
  • The Facts
  • Related Courses

What the job involves

  • Investigates and prosecutes offences
  • Secures and examines scenes of crimes and accidents to obtain evidence
  • Protects witnesses and investigates official corruption
  • Maintains public order and safety
  • Patrols assigned areas to minimise potential for public disturbance and crime
  • Investigates accidents, crimes, minor offences and citizens' complaints, gathering evidence, and pursuing, arresting and interviewing suspected offenders
  • Tests persons suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs and issues infringement notices for traffic offences
  • Directs and re-routes traffic at congested areas
  • Attends community meetings and answers inquiries
  • Gives advice and assistance to victims of crime and their families
  • Maintains records and prepares reports

Key values of workers in Detectives

  • Working Conditions

    Occupations that satisfy this work value offer job security and good working conditions. Corresponding needs are Activity, Compensation, Independence, Security, Variety and Working Conditions.

  • Independence

    Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to work on their own and make decisions. Corresponding needs are Creativity, Responsibility and Autonomy.

  • Recognition

    Occupations that satisfy this work value offer advancement, potential for leadership, and are often considered prestigious. Corresponding needs are Advancement, Authority, Recognition and Social Status.

  • Support

    Occupations that satisfy this work value offer supportive management that stands behind employees. Corresponding needs are Company Policies, Supervision: Human Relations and Supervision: Technical.

  • Relationships

    Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to provide service to others and work with co-workers in a friendly non-competitive environment. Corresponding needs are Co-workers, Moral Values and Social Service.

Top skills required for workers in Detectives

  • Speaking

    Talking to others to convey information effectively.

  • Critical Thinking

    Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.

  • Reading Comprehension

    Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.

  • Social Perceptiveness

    Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.

  • Complex Problem Solving

    Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.