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Federal Defender Investigator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Cherokee Federal

Systems Engineer Expert

Herndon, VA · On-site

$230K - $240K/yr

Use Splunk to collect, analyze, correlate, and investigate operational and security data. * Develop ... Microsoft Defender Legal Disclaimer: Cherokee Federal is an equal opportunity employer. Please ...

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Cherokee Federal

Systems Engineer Expert

Herndon, VA · On-site

$230K - $240K/yr

Use Splunk to collect, analyze, correlate, and investigate operational and security data. * Develop ... Microsoft Defender Legal Disclaimer: Cherokee Federal is an equal opportunity employer. Please ...

Digital Global Connectors

Security Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$120 - $160/hr

Microsoft Defender XDR * Microsoft Defender for Endpoint * Microsoft Defender for Identity ... Trust investigation. * Compliance with all applicable Federal security, privacy, ethics, and ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsFederal Defender Investigator JobsFederal Defender Investigator Jobs in Virginia

Federal Defender Investigator information

See Virginia salary details

$31.7K

$74.7K

$129.9K

How much do federal defender investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for federal defender investigator in Virginia is $74,678.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,000.00 and $97,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a federal defender investigator?

Federal Defender Investigators are professionals who work with federal public defender offices to assist in the defense of individuals charged with federal crimes. Their primary role is to gather facts, locate and interview witnesses, collect and analyze evidence, and help attorneys build strong defense cases. They often conduct field investigations, review law enforcement reports, and prepare detailed reports for attorneys. Their work is critical in ensuring that defendants receive a fair trial and that all relevant information is brought to light.

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

To thrive as a Federal Defender Investigator, you need strong investigative skills, knowledge of criminal law and procedure, and typically a bachelor's degree in criminal justice or a related field. Familiarity with case management software, legal research databases, and evidence collection tools is common in this role. Excellent communication, critical thinking, and discretion are essential soft skills for building rapport with witnesses and collaborating with legal teams. These abilities are crucial to gather accurate information, support the defense team, and ensure fair representation for clients in federal cases.

What are some common challenges faced by federal defender investigators, and how can new hires effectively address them?

Federal Defender Investigators often encounter challenges such as building trust with reluctant witnesses, managing large volumes of complex case files, and conducting thorough investigations within tight deadlines. New hires can address these challenges by developing strong communication skills, staying highly organized, and collaborating closely with attorneys and other team members. Seeking mentorship from experienced investigators and staying current with investigative best practices can also help navigate the complexities of federal defense cases.

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

AspectFederal Defender InvestigatorFederal Public Defender Investigator
CredentialsRelevant investigative experience, sometimes certifications in criminal justice or law enforcementSimilar credentials, often requiring investigative or law enforcement background
Work EnvironmentGovernment offices, courtrooms, client interviewsGovernment offices, court settings, field investigations
Employer & IndustryFederal public defender offices, criminal defenseFederal public defender offices, criminal defense
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for investigative roles in federal defenseSimilar to Federal Defender Investigator, used interchangeably in searches

The Federal Defender Investigator and Federal Public Defender Investigator roles are very similar, both working within federal public defender offices to support criminal defense cases. They typically require investigative experience and work in government legal settings. The main difference is often in terminology used by different offices or regions, but their responsibilities and qualifications largely overlap.

How to become a federal defender investigator?

To become a federal defender investigator, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, social sciences, or a related field, along with relevant experience in investigations or law enforcement. Strong research, interviewing, and report-writing skills are essential, and some positions may require security clearance. Prior experience with federal agencies or legal environments can be advantageous.

What are popular job titles related to Federal Defender Investigator jobs in Virginia?

For Federal Defender Investigator jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Federal Defender Investigator jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Federal Defender Investigator jobs in Virginia are:

Federal Defender Investigator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Federal Defender Investigator job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 92% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,678 per year, or $35.9 per hour.

Systems Engineer Expert

Herndon, VA • On-site

Cherokee Federal
Architectural Services • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Cherokee Federalexternal

$230K - $240K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description


Compensation & Benefits:
Estimated Starting Salary Range for Systems Engineer - Expert: $230,000.00 - $240,000.00
Pay commensurate with experience.
Full time benefits include Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K, and other possible benefits as provided. Benefits are subject to change with or without notice.
Systems Engineer - Expert Responsibilities Include:
  • Integrate and manage diverse data streams across enterprise networks and systems.
  • Configure, operate, and troubleshoot data transfer tools such as NiFi and Cribl.
  • Establish and maintain data standards for IT and service delivery data sets, streams, and feeds.
  • Analyze complex networks, systems, and log data from network components and operating systems.
  • Monitor, manage, and resolve issues affecting data feeds, network visibility, and system performance.
  • Support environments with shared networks, multiple security enclaves, and complex access requirements.
  • Use Splunk to collect, analyze, correlate, and investigate operational and security data.
  • Develop and maintain automation scripts using Python, ShellScript, Ansible, or similar tools.
  • Implement SecDevOps practices and cloud security controls across AWS, Azure, private cloud, and hybrid-cloud environments.
  • Support PKI implementation, STIG compliance, vulnerability management, and security hardening efforts.
  • Engineer and support virtualized environments, including VDI and VMware platforms.
  • Provide systems engineering and network analysis expertise to improve reliability, security, and operational performance.

Systems Engineer - Expert Experience, Education, Skills, Abilities requested:
  • Active TS/SCI with Full Polygraph
  • A minimum of eleven (11) years of relevant experience
  • Must have a Bachelors' Degree in a related field of study, Masters Degree is preferred.
  • Must be a AWS Certified Security Specialty
  • Experience integrating diverse data streams and data transfer tools (Ex: NiFi, Cribl, etc)
  • Experience in analyzing complex networks and systems, and log data from various network components and operating systems
  • Knowledge of the complex environment involving shared networks and multiple security enclaves
  • Systems Engineering with network analyst\engineering background
  • Ability to manage and troubleshoot data feeds, Splunk familiarization, Python
  • Security Development and Operations (SecDevOps)
  • Expertise with the following:
    • Splunk
    • Scripting tools to include Python, ShellScript, or Ansible
    • Cloud security controls and implementation
    • PKI implementation
    • STIG compliance and vulnerability management
    • Virtualization experience (VDI & VMWare)
    • Public, private and hybrid Cloud experience (AWS, Microsoft Azure, etc.)
  • Must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal

Company Information:
Cherokee Preting (Preting) is a part of Cherokee Federal - the division of tribally owned federal contracting companies owned by Cherokee Nation Businesses. As a trusted partner for more than 60 federal clients, Cherokee Federal LLCs are focused on building a brighter future, solving complex challenges, and serving the government's mission with compassion and heart. To learn more about Preting, visit cherokee-federal.com.
#CherokeeFederal #LI-CK2 #IntelCareers
Cherokee Federal is a military friendly employer. Veterans and active military transitioning to civilian status are encouraged to apply.
Similar searchable job titles:
  • Systems Administrator
  • DevOps Engineer
  • Systems Integrator
  • Infrastructure Engineer

Keywords:
  • Microsoft Azure
  • Virtual Desktop Infrastructure
  • Windows Server
  • Troubleshooting skills
  • Microsoft Defender

Legal Disclaimer: Cherokee Federal is an equal opportunity employer. Please visit cherokee-federal.com/careers for information regarding our Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer Statement, and Accommodation request.
Many of our job openings require access to government buildings or military installations. Candidates must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal.
As required by our governmental client, this position requires being a AND an active TS/SCI with Polygraph clearance.
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About Cherokee Federal

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Cherokee Federal - a division of Cherokee Nation Businesses - is a team of tribally owned federal contracting companies focused on building solutions, solving complex challenges, and serving the nation's mission around the globe for more than 60 federal clients. Our team of companies manages nearly 1,000 projects of all sizes across the construction, consulting, engineering and manufacturing, health, and technology portfolios. Since 2012, the Cherokee Federal team of companies has won more than $5 billion in government contracts. Our 3,000+ employees work in 26 countries, 50 states and 2 U.S. territories. Why choose Cherokee Federal? Visit our website and learn about the great reasons to join our team. cherokee-federal.com

Industry

Architectural services

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Tulsa, OK, US

Year founded

1969

Social media

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