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Assistant Federal Public Defender Jobs in Oregon

Lincoln County, OR

Public Works Director

Newport, OR · On-site

$131K - $176K/yr

... federal level and works at the direction of the County Administrator while implementing Board ... Assistant Director is preferred. * Any combination of relevant education and experience that ...

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All JobsFederal Public Defender JobsAssistant Federal Public Defender JobsAssistant Federal Public Defender Jobs in Oregon

Assistant Federal Public Defender information

See Oregon salary details

$5

$24

How much do assistant federal public defender jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant federal public defender in Oregon is $23.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.03 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an assistant federal public defender?

Assistant Federal Public Defenders are attorneys employed by the federal government to represent individuals charged with federal crimes who cannot afford to hire a private lawyer. They work within the Office of the Federal Public Defender and provide legal defense throughout all stages of the criminal process, from investigation through appeal. Their duties include advising clients, conducting legal research, preparing court documents, negotiating plea deals, and representing clients in court. Assistant Federal Public Defenders play a crucial role in ensuring everyone has access to fair legal representation, regardless of their financial situation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant federal public defender?

To thrive as an Assistant Federal Public Defender, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, state bar admission, and strong expertise in criminal defense law and trial advocacy. Familiarity with federal court procedures, legal research tools like Westlaw or LexisNexis, and case management systems is essential. Excellent communication, negotiation, and empathy are vital soft skills for effectively representing and supporting indigent clients. These abilities are crucial for ensuring fair representation, navigating complex legal processes, and advocating for clients’ rights in federal court.

What are some common challenges faced by assistant federal public defenders when managing their caseloads?

Assistant Federal Public Defenders often handle a high volume of complex cases simultaneously, requiring excellent time management and organizational skills. Balancing thorough client representation with strict court deadlines can be demanding, especially as many clients face serious federal charges and have limited resources. Additionally, public defenders must stay current on evolving federal laws and sentencing guidelines while collaborating closely with investigators, paralegals, and other attorneys. The role demands resilience, adaptability, and a strong commitment to client advocacy.

What is the difference between Assistant Federal Public Defender vs Public Defender Investigator?

AspectAssistant Federal Public DefenderPublic Defender Investigator
CredentialsJuris Doctor (JD), bar admissionHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require related experience
Work EnvironmentLegal offices, courtroom support, case preparationFieldwork, interviews, evidence gathering
Employer & IndustryFederal public defender offices, criminal defensePublic defender offices, criminal justice
Primary RoleLegal defense, case analysis, courtroom advocacyInvestigating cases, collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses

Assistant Federal Public Defenders focus on legal defense and courtroom work, requiring legal credentials. Public Defender Investigators support cases through investigation and evidence collection, often with less formal education. Both roles serve public defense but have distinct responsibilities and skill requirements.

What cities in Oregon are hiring for Assistant Federal Public Defender jobs?

Cities in Oregon with the most Assistant Federal Public Defender job openings:

Assistant Federal Public Defender jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Federal Public Defender job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,916 per year, or $23.5 per hour.

Trainer Manager

Metropolitan Public Defender Service Inc

Portland, OR • On-site

$130K - $174K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

MPD has been on the cutting edge of public defense since our inception in 1971. Formed as a non-profit law firm, MPD contracts with the State of Oregon for public defense services. MPD was the first public defender organization under this system. MPD is the largest single provider of trial level public defense services in the state of Oregon, with offices in both Multnomah and Washington counties.

Join our dynamic team and a part of MPD’s commitment to being a leader in public defense which includes not just excellence in client representation but a strong commitment to hiring and developing a professional staff of defenders. For more information on MPD and our work visit:www.mpdlaw.com

MPD is currently searching for a Trainer Manager to join our Multnomah County Office. The Trainer Manager plans and coordinates a robust training program utilizing and developing resources within the office, primarily for attorneys but also for legal professional support staff. This position mentors and trains all team members, including Certified Law Students, on a continuing basis. This position works in close conjunction with other management Chiefs to meet the training needs of all MPD staff. The Trainer Manager receives general supervision from the Director of Training & Attorney Recruitment.

This position pays $130,153.66 - $174,175.04 per year. Staff is an at-will employee. This is a full-time, in-office exempt position.

In addition to compensation, MPD also offers:

  • Medical (choice of PPO or HDHP), Dental (choice of PPO Standard or PPO Enhanced) and Vision
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Basic Life, STD, LTD and AD&D – 100% employer paid
  • 401(K) – MPD will contribute 6% of your annual salary with full vesting after the completion of 5 years of service
  • PTO – up to 80 hours and increases up to 120 hours starting at 24 months
  • 10 paid holidays + 2 Personal Equity Days
  • 4 Mental Health Days per year
  • Sick Leave – 48 hours upon hire + accrues monthly after the completion of six months of employment

Position Qualifications

  • Must be a current member of the Oregon State Bar in good standing or eligible for reciprocity admission.
  • Experience working in indigent criminal/juvenile defense.
  • OPDC-qualified to handle misdemeanor and felony cases
  • Ability to travel to and work within criminal justice system facilities and to testify in court without impeachment

Position Preferences

  • Excellent organizational and time management skills and attention to detail, with a proven ability to meet deadlines
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to lead by example in the handling of work assignments, as well as in the treatment of staff and others in the criminal justice system.
  • Experience with training, coaching and/or supervision
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Work Environment:

  • MPD fosters a work environment that is friendly, cooperative, and respectful.
  • Work is generally sedentary and in an office setting, courthouse, or jail facility
  • Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at a time.
  • This is an in-person/in-office position.

Application Process:

  • Submit a resume and cover letter on why you are interested in this position and/or in support of public defense.

Diversity and Inclusion: At MPD, we do not just accept difference; we value it and support it to create a culture of dignity and respect for all our staff.

MPD is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, military status, national origin, or any other characteristic protected under federal, state, or applicable local law.

Accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act: We gladly provide reasonable accommodation to anyone whose specific disability prevents them from completing an application or participating in this recruitment process. Please contact Human Resources in advance to request assistance.