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Defender Investigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

TRG Defender

Felony Qualified Public Defender

Goliad, TX · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

With caseload controls, staff investigators, mental health and substance abuse caseworkers, and a ... defender office; have strong academic credentials; are solution-oriented and creative; are able to ...

Steuben County

Public Defender

Angola, IN · On-site

Public Defender DEPARTMENT: Public Defender WORK SCHEDULE: As Assigned JOB CATEGORY: SO (Special ... Ability to analyze, observe, investigate and evaluate data, and coordinate, place, make ...

State of Arkansas

PUBLIC DEFENDER II

Ashdown, AR · On-site

$85K - $127K/yr

Public Defenders Classification: Public Defender II - Career Path Class Code: LPD04P Pay Grade ... Conduct investigations, interview clients and witnesses, gather and review evidence, and research ...

State of Arkansas

PUBLIC DEFENDER II

Russellville, AR · On-site

$85K - $127K/yr

Public Defenders Classification: Public Defender II - Career Path Class Code: LPD04P Pay Grade ... Conduct investigations, interview clients and witnesses, gather and review evidence, and research ...

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Defender Investigator information

See salary details

$32K

$75.3K

$131K

How much do defender investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for defender investigator in the United States is $75,325.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,500.00 and $98,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Defender Investigator vs Private Investigator?

AspectDefender InvestigatorPrivate Investigator
CredentialsMay require security or law enforcement background, licensing varies by stateTypically requires licensing, background checks, and sometimes specific certifications
Work EnvironmentOften employed by security firms, law enforcement agencies, or government entitiesOperates independently or for private agencies, often in diverse settings
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement, security, governmentPrivate investigation agencies, legal firms, individuals

While both roles involve investigative work, Defender Investigators primarily focus on security-related investigations within law enforcement or security settings, often requiring specific credentials. Private Investigators operate more independently, handling a variety of cases for private clients. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are some common challenges faced by defender investigators when gathering evidence for public defense cases?

Defender Investigators often encounter obstacles such as uncooperative witnesses, tight case deadlines, and limited access to certain records or locations. Balancing a high caseload while ensuring a thorough and impartial investigation can be demanding. Successful investigators rely on strong communication skills, persistence, and collaboration with attorneys and other team members to overcome these hurdles and ensure clients receive a fair defense.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a defender investigator?

To thrive as a Defender Investigator, you need strong investigative skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of criminal justice procedures, usually supported by a relevant degree or experience in law enforcement or legal settings. Familiarity with case management systems, legal research databases, and evidence-gathering tools is essential. Excellent communication, critical thinking, and the ability to build rapport with diverse individuals are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills are vital to ensure accurate fact-finding, support effective defense strategies, and uphold clients' legal rights in criminal cases.

What is a defender investigator?

Defender Investigators are professionals who work alongside public defenders or defense attorneys to gather facts, evidence, and witness statements related to criminal cases. Their primary role is to uncover information that may support the defense, challenge the prosecution's evidence, and help ensure a fair trial for the defendant. They conduct interviews, review reports, visit crime scenes, and sometimes testify in court about their findings. Defender Investigators play a crucial part in upholding justice by ensuring all relevant information is considered in legal proceedings.
More about Defender Investigator jobs
What cities are hiring for Defender Investigator jobs? Cities with the most Defender Investigator job openings:
What states have the most Defender Investigator jobs? States with the most job openings for Defender Investigator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Defender Investigator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Defender Investigator jobs are:
Defender Investigator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defender Investigator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,325 per year, or $36.2 per hour.

Appellate Assistant Federal Public Defender

Federal Public Defender

Sioux Falls, SD • On-site

$76K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

FEDERAL PUBLIC DEFENDER
Districts of South Dakota and North Dakota
Jason J. Tupman, Federal Public Defender
Telephone: (605) 330-4489; Fax: (605) 330-4499

POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT
ASSISTANT FEDERAL DEFENDER (APPELLATE)


The Federal Public Defender for the Districts of South Dakota and North Dakota is seeking an
Appellate Assistant Federal Public Defender. The successful candidate may choose to office in any
of our branch locations: Bismarck, Fargo, Pierre, Rapid City, or Sioux Falls. Our office provides
high-quality, client-centered representation to individuals charged with federal crimes who cannot
afford retained counsel, pursuant to the Criminal Justice Act.

Why Our Office
We are a collegial, mission-driven office committed to excellent federal defense practice. Our attorneys engage in thoughtful, rigorous advocacy supported by experienced investigators, paralegals, and administrative staff. We value collaboration, mentorship, creativity, and sound judgment. Although this is an appellate-focused role, you will be part of a team-oriented environment that emphasizes respect, integrity, and mutual support – for our clients and one another.

Position Description
The appellate attorney primarily prepares briefs, motions, and petitions for rehearing or certiorari in the United States Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit and the Supreme Court of the United States. The position includes presenting oral arguments in the Eighth Circuit and may involve post-conviction work in the district court subject to office needs. Additionally, the appellate attorney provides research and writing support to trial attorneys in district courts. Attorneys in this office may not engage in the private practice of law.

Required Qualifications
1. Graduation from an accredited law school.
2. Admission in good standing to practice before the highest court of a state or the District of
Columbia.
3. Willingness to obtain bar admission in South Dakota and/or North Dakota within one year of
starting employment.
4. United States citizenship or authorization to work in the United States.

We seek applicants with exceptional research and writing skills, a demonstrated commitment to
indigent defense, and the ability to work collaboratively with attorneys, clients, court personnel, and agency staff. Creativity, sound judgment, and strong communication skills are highly valued.

Salary and Benefits
Salary is commensurate with experience and ranges from $76,748 - $180,078. This is a full-time
position with comprehensive federal benefits, including health and life insurance, retirement, and participation in the Thrift Savings Plan. Salary is paid bi-weekly via direct deposit. Final offers are contingent upon funding availability and completion of a background investigation.

How to Apply
E-mail a single PDF containing a letter of interest, résumé, three references, and a recent writing
sample to SDX_JOBS@fd.org with the subject line, “Assistant Federal Defender (Appellate) –
Position Announcement 26-11”.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. More than one position may be filled from this announcement.

The Federal Public Defender for the Districts of South Dakota and North Dakota is an Equal
Opportunity Employer. Women and minorities encouraged to apply.
Position Announcement #26-11


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