Job Description

Office of Public Defenders

Investigator Specialist

Posting Expires: April 14, 2026

Salary: $56,000 - $63,250/annually

General Description and Classification Standards:

The Public Defender Investigator Specialist plays a critical role in the defense of individuals charged with criminal offenses who cannot afford private legal counsel. The position involves conducting independent confidential and thorough investigations in support of the defense team.

The Investigator Specialist gathers information and documents for analysis to assist attorneys in developing defense strategies and protecting client's constitutional rights.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: These are typical responsibilities for this position and should not be construed as exclusive or all inclusive.

Responsible for conducting investigations in criminal, traffic, and code enforcement cases. Assists defense attorneys by participating in investigations connected with criminal cases before the municipal court; Collect and preserve evidence including photographs, video evidence, 911 calls, medical records and public records. Serves subpoenas and other legal documents to individuals in accordance with court rules and procedures. May prepare diagrams and photographs or trial exhibits in anticipation of trial. Conduct field investigation related to locating and interviewing witnesses, victims, law enforcement, and others related to the case. Maintains records on all investigations; this includes the contacts made, findings of evidence, collected statements, description of scenes, analysis of cases and other information relevant to the defense; prepares investigative reports and summaries for attorneys and case files and case management system. Performs administrative work in the unit related to client case management. Maintains video evidence management files and other media files. Performs other related duties as required. Uses available technology and its application to gather evidence and develop defense cases. Values teamwork and demonstrates the willingness to collaborate with other team members. Testify in court as needed regarding investigative work and findings. Assists and participates in training, workshops, seminars, meetings, and events which may occur outside normal hours of operation.

The above statements reflect the general duties, responsibilities and competencies considered necessary to perform the essential duties and responsibilities of the job and should not be considered as a detailed description of all the work requirements of the position. COA may change the specific job duties with or without prior notice based on the needs of the organization.

Knowledge Skills and Abilities: This is a partial listing of necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform the job successfully, it is not an exhaustive list.

Knowledge of penal codes, welfare and institutional codes, and court procedures to ascertain investigative needs; Fundamental knowledge of conducting investigations. Strong communication and relationship skills and can build partnerships with key stakeholders Demonstrates ability to work in a deadline driven environment and ability manage multiple priorities. Resourceful when collecting and developing facts and other pertinent data. Demonstrates proficiency in the use of GCIC; Court Case Management System; ability to objectively analyze and evaluate facts, evidence and related information. Able to obtain the cooperation and confidence of others. Skills to analyze and evaluate data collected during investigations; interact and communicate orally in a courteous and effective manner with law enforcement officials and members of the public; communicate effectively in writing, including preparation of records and reports; plan, organize, assign and review the work of other investigative personnel including the preparation of records and reports.

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