Job Announcement:
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The Montana Division of Criminal Investigation is hiring an experienced Criminal Investigator to join our elite team.
This role offers a unique opportunity to work on high-impact felony cases, particularly related to narcotics, organized crime, and drug trafficking while serving alongside some of the best investigators in the state.
Located: Kalispell, Montana
Salary: $32.75 - 36.75 Hourly
Fantastic State of Montana benefits you and your family.
Resume deadline (based on your computer's time zone): Sept. 26, 2025, 11:59:00 PM
What You'll Do
As a DCI Narcotics Criminal Investigator, you will:
Lead and support complex criminal investigations involving felony violations of Montana’s criminal laws, with a focus on dangerous drug laws.
Operate in undercover capacities, conduct proactive drug investigations, and develop long-term cases against criminal networks.
Collaborate with local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to dismantle narcotics operations and related criminal activity.
Respond to clandestine methamphetamine labs, execute search warrants, serve investigative subpoenas, and pursue criminal forfeitures.
Provide training and subject matter expertise to agencies, prosecutors, and communities across Montana on drug trends, investigative techniques, and officer safety.
Who We're Looking For
We want seasoned law enforcement professionals who bring investigative experience, sharp instincts, and a drive to take on challenging cases that protect Montana communities from drug-related harm.
Minimum Qualifications
High school diploma or equivalent.
At least 3 years of experience in law enforcement, criminal investigations, or a related public safety role.
POST Basic Certificate (or equivalent from another state).
Must meet eligibility requirements for the POST Intermediate Certificate.
Firearms training and qualification required.
Valid driver's license.
Other combinations of education and experience will be considered.
Preferred Qualifications
5 years of investigative experience, with at least 2 years as a full-time investigator handling complex felony cases.
Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, Public Administration, Sociology, Psychology, or a related field.
Experience with narcotics enforcement, undercover operations, or task force work.
Ideal Candidates Will Be Skilled In:
Conducting felony-level criminal investigations and building prosecutable cases.
Drafting and executing search warrants, investigative subpoenas, and forfeiture documentation.
Using surveillance and investigative tools and technologies.
Testifying in court, writing detailed reports, and documenting evidence properly.
Working effectively under pressure and making sound decisions in high-stress environments.
Collaborating across agencies, jurisdictions, and investigative disciplines.
Knowledge of the Following is Important:
Montana Code Annotated Titles 45 (Crimes), 46 (Criminal Procedure), and 26 (Rules of Evidence).
State and federal drug laws, criminal justice privacy/security regulations, and investigative best practices.
Federal regulations such as CFR Titles 18 and 42.
Selected candidate (s) will undergo:
Criminal history and fingerprint check
Thorough background investigation
Psychological evaluation
Medical evaluation
Drug testing
Driving history review
How to Apply
Please submit a résumé that clearly details your law enforcement and investigative experience, including:
Job duties and responsibilities
Employment dates (Month/Year)
Reasons for leaving previous positions
Tip: Be sure to attach your résumé as a “Relevant File” in the application system.
What do we offer:
State of Montana comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage for you and your family
Generous paid time off; including vacation, sick leave, and holidays
Retirement plans for your future
Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program
Be part of a bureau that values tactical excellence, investigative integrity, and public service.
Please direct questions regarding this position to dojcsdhr@mt.gov
About Law Enforcement Jobs
Jobs close at 11:59 PM (Eastern) on the deadline date specified, or when the position capacity has been met, or unless otherwise specified in the announcement. If the deadline date is not specified in the announcement, the agency has sole discretion on setting the deadline and jobs may close without notice. It is the applicant's responsibility to thoroughly read and understand the deadline requirements and capacity limits as outlined by the agency.
Applicants are responsible for checking their email and logging into their PoliceApp account to monitor for updates.