Detective Supervisor Salary

Annual Median: $101,750
Hourly Median: $48.92

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Annual and Hourly Detective Supervisor U.S. Salary Table:

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
PercentileAnnual SalaryHourly Wage
10th$60,090$28.89
25th$77,750$37.38
Median$101,750$48.92
75th$128,460$61.76
90th$160,710$77.27

Detective Supervisor Salary Overview (2024)

As a Detective Supervisor, you play a key role in law enforcement, overseeing investigations and guiding teams of detectives. This position not only involves managing cases but also entails ensuring that investigative work upholds ethical and legal standards. The responsibilities extend to strategic planning, resource allocation, and collaboration with various law enforcement agencies.

When considering a career in this field, salary is an essential factor. Understanding potential earnings can help you make informed decisions about entering, advancing, or making a transition within the law enforcement profession. Salary insights can also affect your career trajectory, job satisfaction, and financial planning.

Career.Guide provides the latest salary information for Detective Supervisors, sourced from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This data equips you with a current understanding of what you can expect in terms of compensation, allowing you to evaluate opportunities and make informed decisions in your career path.

Best Schools to become a Detective Supervisor in U.S. 2024

CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice

New York, NY

In-State Tuition:$6,930
Out-of-State Tuition:$14,880
Admission Rate:51%
Graduation Rate:54%
Total Enrollment:13,921

Liberty University

Lynchburg, VA

In-State Tuition:$15,467
Out-of-State Tuition:$15,467
Admission Rate:99%
Graduation Rate:66%
Total Enrollment:96,709

Sam Houston State University

Huntsville, TX

In-State Tuition:$5,856
Out-of-State Tuition:$15,648
Admission Rate:85%
Graduation Rate:56%
Total Enrollment:21,480

University of Phoenix-Arizona

Phoenix, AZ

In-State Tuition:$9,552
Out-of-State Tuition:$9,552
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:18%
Total Enrollment:88,891

American Public University System

Charles Town, WV

In-State Tuition:$6,840
Out-of-State Tuition:$6,840
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:55%
Total Enrollment:48,668

Purdue University Global

West Lafayette, IN

In-State Tuition:$10,080
Out-of-State Tuition:$13,356
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:20%
Total Enrollment:45,125

How Experience Affects Detective Supervisor Salary (2024)

As you progress in your career as a Detective Supervisor, your level of experience plays a significant role in shaping your salary. Here’s how your earnings can evolve at different stages of your career:

Entry-Level Detective Supervisor
In your initial years as a Detective Supervisor, you may find your salary on the lower end of the spectrum. At this stage, your earnings may be influenced by various factors such as the following:

  • Education and Training: Your academic background and any specialized training or certifications can impact your starting salary.
  • Geographical Location: Salaries can vary depending on the cost of living and demand for law enforcement personnel in your area.
  • Prior Experience: If you've transitioned from another relevant position, such as a detective or patrol officer, this previous experience may help you command a slightly higher starting salary.

    Mid-Level Detective Supervisor
    With a few years of experience under your belt, you will likely see a notable increase in your earnings. At this stage, consider aspects such as:

  • Leadership and Management Skills: Successfully demonstrating your ability to lead a team and manage cases will contribute to a higher salary.
  • Performance and Achievements: Consistent performance in solving cases and achieving departmental goals will enhance your reputation and justify a higher salary.
  • Networking and Professional Development: Building a professional network and pursuing additional training or certifications can open doors to better compensation opportunities.

Senior-Level Detective Supervisor
As a seasoned professional in the field, you will experience the highest earning potential. Your salary at this stage may be influenced by:

  • Expertise and Reputation: Your long-standing experience and a strong track record of success can position you as a valuable asset to your department, thereby enhancing your negotiating power.
  • Specialized Knowledge: Holding expertise in niche areas of law enforcement can set you apart, often leading to higher salary offers.
  • Leadership Responsibilities: Overseeing multiple units, engaging in strategic planning, and contributing to policy development acknowledges your seniority and can significantly boost your earnings.

In summary, as you move through the different levels of experience as a Detective Supervisor, your salary is likely to increase, reflecting your skills, contributions, and leadership capabilities in law enforcement.

Detective Supervisor Salary By Industry (2024)

Detective Supervisors operate across various sectors, and salaries can vary significantly depending on the industry in which you find employment. Here’s a look at how salaries may differ across key industries:

  • Public Sector (Law Enforcement Agencies)
    Detective Supervisors in public law enforcement agencies, including local, state, and federal police departments, typically find stable salary structures influenced by government budget allocations and union agreements. These positions often come with benefits such as retirement plans and health insurance, which can enhance total compensation.

  • Private Sector (Corporate Security)
    In the corporate world, Detective Supervisors may work in security roles within large companies or financial institutions. Salaries can be influenced by the size and profitability of the business. Companies often offer competitive compensation packages that may include bonuses tied to performance in preventing loss or theft.

  • Private Investigation Firms
    Those employed by private investigation firms may experience a different pay structure. Compensation might be more variable, driven by the nature and complexity of cases. Smaller firms may offer lower base salaries but provide opportunities for commission on successful case resolutions.

  • Cybersecurity Firms
    Given the growing demand for cybersecurity, Detective Supervisors in this sector often perform investigative roles to combat cybercrime. Salaries in this field are generally higher due to the specialized skills required and the high-risk nature of the work, reflecting the premium placed on expertise in digital security.

  • Federal Government Agencies
    Within agencies like the FBI or DEA, Detective Supervisors often receive higher compensation due to the specialized training and responsibilities associated with federal investigations. The structured pay scales can lead to significant salary growth over time, especially with promotions and years of service.

  • Insurance Companies
    In insurance fraud investigations, Detective Supervisors may find lucrative opportunities where their salary reflects the critical nature of their work in reducing losses for the company. Salaries in this sector can be appealing, especially as insurance companies increasingly focus on combating fraud.

  • Non-profit Organizations
    Detective Supervisors working in non-profit organizations, especially in areas related to social justice or community safety, may experience lower salaries compared to their counterparts in the public and private sectors. However, these roles can provide fulfilling work that aligns with personal values.

When considering a career as a Detective Supervisor, it's important to note that salaries can also be influenced by factors such as location, years of experience, and specific job responsibilities within these industries.

Factors That Affect Detective Supervisor Salary (2024)

Several key factors influence the salary of a Detective Supervisor. Understanding these can help you navigate your career path effectively:

  • Education: Higher levels of education, such as a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in criminal justice, criminology, or a related field, often correlate with increased earning potential. Specialized coursework or training can provide you with a competitive edge.

  • Certifications: Earning professional certifications, such as a Certified Criminal Investigator (CCI) or credentials through recognized law enforcement agencies, can enhance your qualifications and may lead to higher salary offerings.

  • Specialized Skills: Expertise in certain investigative techniques, forensic science, or advanced technology tools can set you apart from other candidates. Specialized training in areas like cybercrime, financial crimes, or human trafficking may be particularly valuable.

  • Experience: Your years of experience in law enforcement and investigative roles directly affect earning potential. Supervisory roles typically require a track record of effective leadership and successful investigations.

  • Company Size: The size and type of organization you work for can significantly impact your salary. Larger law enforcement agencies or metropolitan police departments may offer more competitive salaries compared to smaller agencies.

  • Geographic Location: The location of your job plays a vital role in salary determination. Urban areas or regions with higher living costs generally offer salaries that are adjusted for the local economy.

  • Demand: Market demand for detectives and their supervisors can also influence salary levels. Areas with higher crime rates or increased focus on law enforcement funding may see higher compensation for these positions.

By considering these factors, you can better understand your potential salary as a Detective Supervisor and make informed career decisions.

Detective Supervisor Salary Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • What factors influence the salary of a Detective Supervisor? The salary of a Detective Supervisor can be influenced by various factors, including:

    • Geographic location
    • Years of experience in law enforcement
    • Level of education and certifications
    • Type of agency or department (municipal, state, federal)
    • Size and budget of the law enforcement agency
  • Do Detective Supervisors receive additional compensation beyond their base salary? Yes, many Detective Supervisors may receive additional compensation. This can include:

    • Overtime pay for extra hours worked
    • Shift differentials for working less desirable hours
    • Bonuses or incentive pay based on performance metrics
  • How does experience affect the salary of a Detective Supervisor? Generally, more experienced Detective Supervisors command higher salaries. With increased tenure, you gain valuable skills and expertise, which can lead to promotions and higher pay. Your performance record also plays a role in determining salary increases.

  • What educational background is typically required for a Detective Supervisor? While requirements can vary by agency, most Detective Supervisors have at least an associate's or bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, criminology, or a related field. Additional training and certifications can also enhance your qualifications and potentially affect salary.

  • Are there opportunities for salary advancement as a Detective Supervisor? Yes, there are opportunities for salary advancement. As you demonstrate leadership abilities and effective management of investigations, you may qualify for promotions to higher-ranking positions within the law enforcement agency, leading to increased salaries.

  • How does the size of the law enforcement agency impact salary? Typically, larger agencies with more funding may offer higher salaries for Detective Supervisors compared to smaller agencies. However, this can also depend on the agency’s geographic location and budget constraints.

  • Is it common for Detective Supervisors to receive benefits alongside their salary? Yes, Detective Supervisors often receive a benefits package that may include health insurance, retirement plans, vacation days, and sick leave. These benefits are essential components of total compensation and can significantly enhance overall earnings.

  • What are the prospects for salary growth in the role of a Detective Supervisor? Salary growth prospects can be favorable depending on economic conditions and funding for law enforcement. Continuous professional development, performance improvements, and taking on additional responsibilities can positively impact your salary trajectory.

  • How can I find salary information specific to my location as a Detective Supervisor? To find location-specific salary information, you can research local law enforcement agencies, consult salary surveys, or refer to government labor statistics. Networking with professionals in the field and utilizing online resources can also provide valuable insights.

  • Does union membership affect the salary of Detective Supervisors? Yes, union membership can impact your salary. Many law enforcement unions negotiate contracts that can secure better wages, benefits, and working conditions for their members, which can lead to a higher salary compared to non-union counterparts.