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Federal Defender Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Cassiday Schade LLP

Be Seen First

Associate Attorney Position

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$95K - $145K/yr

... federal court with poise and professionalism. Company Description ABOUT CASSIDAY SCHADE LLP Cassiday Schade LLP is a litigation law firm headquartered in Chicago, with a presence throughout the ...

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Showing results 21-40

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Federal Defender information

See Wisconsin salary details

$47.4K

$79.3K

$133.2K

How much do federal defender jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for federal defender in Wisconsin is $79,322.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,600.00 and $86,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a federal defender?

Federal defenders are attorneys who provide legal representation to individuals charged with federal crimes who cannot afford to hire private counsel. They are part of the federal public defender system, which is designed to ensure that everyone has access to fair legal defense, regardless of their financial situation. Federal defenders handle a variety of cases, ranging from drug offenses to white-collar crimes, and work to protect the rights of the accused throughout the federal criminal justice process.

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

To thrive as a Federal Defender, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, bar admission, and a comprehensive understanding of federal criminal law and procedure. Familiarity with legal research databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis, and experience with case management systems, are typically required. Exceptional advocacy, negotiation, and communication skills, along with empathy and resilience, help distinguish outstanding defenders. These competencies are essential for ensuring effective legal representation, protecting clients' rights, and navigating the complexities of the federal justice system.

What are some common challenges faced by federal defenders in managing their caseloads?

Federal Defenders often handle a high volume of complex cases, which can require balancing tight deadlines, thorough legal research, and frequent court appearances. Managing client communication and building trust, especially with clients facing serious charges, can be demanding. Collaboration with investigators, paralegals, and other attorneys is essential to prepare effective defenses. Staying up to date with changes in federal law and procedure is also a key part of the role, as is maintaining a commitment to ethical and diligent representation under often challenging circumstances.

What is the difference between Federal Defender vs Public Defender?

AspectFederal DefenderPublic Defender
CredentialsJuris Doctor, bar admission, specialized federal criminal law knowledgeJuris Doctor, bar admission, state-specific criminal law knowledge
Work EnvironmentFederal courts, federal criminal casesState courts, state criminal cases
EmployerFederal Public Defender ServiceCounty or state government agencies
Industry UsageFederal criminal defenseState criminal defense

The main difference between a Federal Defender and a Public Defender lies in their jurisdiction and employer. Federal Defenders work in federal courts handling federal criminal cases, while Public Defenders serve in state courts handling state criminal cases. Both roles require a Juris Doctor, bar admission, and strong criminal law knowledge, but their scope and employer differ significantly.

Federal Defender jobs near you
Infographic showing various Federal Defender job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,322 per year, or $38.1 per hour.

Welder

Fincantieri Marine Group

Sturgeon Bay, WI • On-site

$18.75 - $24.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

As a Welder at Fincantieri Bay Shipbuilding, you will support shipbuilding operations by performing high-quality welding with a focus on safety and efficiency at our 63-acre facility in Sturgeon Bay, WI.
Key Responsibilities
  • Weld components in flat, vertical, and overhead positions.
  • Set up, operate, and maintain welding equipment, tools, and torches.
  • Read and interpret blueprints and specifications.
  • Inspect and measure work for accuracy and quality.
  • Troubleshoot equipment issues and ensure safe work practices.
  • Perform related tasks as assigned.

Physical Requirements
  • Frequently lift, carry, and position up to 50 lbs.
  • Work in tight spaces, climb ladders/stairs, and operate tools overhead.
  • Perform physically demanding tasks in shipyard environments.

Core Competencies
  • Action Oriented -- Taking on new opportunities and tough challenges with a sense of urgency, high energy, and enthusiasm.
  • Drives Results -- Consistently achieving results, even under tough circumstances.
  • Optimizes Work Processes (Quality & Continuous Improvement) -- Knowing the most effective and efficient processes to get things done, with a focus on continuous improvement.

  • Must be 18 years old.
  • Must be a U.S. Person.
  • Must be able to work at heights.
  • Must be able to work in confined and enclosed spaces.
  • Must be able to work in all weather conditions.
  • Knowledge of construction materials/methods and basic blueprint reading.
  • Ability to pass ABS test in FCAW (Flux Core Arc Welding).
  • Comfortable working independently in challenging environments.

Education/Experience
  • Welding certification or technical training.
  • 3+ years welding experience, preferably flux core.
  • Shipyard or military fabrication experience a plus.

Company Overview:
Fincantieri Bay Shipbuilding (FBS), located in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, has been a leader in ship construction, repair, and conversions since 1918. Our portfolio includes articulated tug-barge units, OPA 90-compliant vessels, dredges, offshore supply vessels, and Great Lakes self-unloading vessels. We are committed to safety, quality, value, and dependability, delivering innovative maritime solutions. Our mission is to build, repair, and sustain vessels that supply, service, and defend our nation and the world.
Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, genetic information, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected category under applicable federal, state, and local laws.

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