ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Federal Public Defender Investigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

State of Maryland - OPD District Operations

MD · On-site

The Public Defender Investigator III interviews clients to obtain their version of the alleged offense, to develop leads, and to gather information and evidence for the defense's case. Written ...

Ulster County

Public Defender Investigator

Kingston, NY · On-site

$33.15/hr

INVESTIGATOR - PUBLIC DEFENDER'S OFFICE INVESTIGATOR, PUBLIC DEFENDER'S OFFICE DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: The work involves responsibility for performing investigations of criminal, family ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsFederal Public Defender Investigator Jobs

Federal Public Defender Investigator information

See salary details

$32K

$75.3K

$131K

How much do federal public defender investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for federal public 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a federal public defender investigator?

To thrive as a Federal Public Defender Investigator, you need a solid understanding of criminal law, investigative techniques, and evidence gathering, usually supported by a relevant degree and investigative experience. Familiarity with case management systems, legal research databases, and surveillance technology is often required. Exceptional interpersonal skills, critical thinking, and discretion set top investigators apart in this field. These skills and qualities are vital for building strong defense cases, uncovering crucial facts, and protecting clients' constitutional rights.

What are some common challenges faced by federal public defender investigators during case preparation?

Federal Public Defender Investigators frequently encounter challenges such as locating and interviewing reluctant witnesses, gathering time-sensitive evidence, and navigating complex legal and procedural guidelines. They must also work under tight deadlines while maintaining confidentiality and building trust with clients from diverse backgrounds. Collaboration with attorneys and other defense team members is crucial to ensure all investigative findings are thoroughly integrated into the defense strategy.

What is a federal public defender investigator?

A Federal Public Defender Investigator is a professional who works with federal public defender offices to assist in the defense of individuals charged with federal crimes. They conduct investigations by gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, locating records, and analyzing case details to support defense attorneys in building strong cases for their clients. Their work is essential in ensuring that defendants receive fair and thorough representation under the law. These investigators often work closely with attorneys to develop trial strategies and may testify in court about their findings.

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

AspectFederal Public Defender Investigator
Required CredentialsTypically requires a background in criminal justice, law enforcement, or related fields; often a degree or relevant experience
Work EnvironmentWorks within federal public defender offices, conducting investigations for legal cases
Employer & IndustryFederal government, legal/public defense sector
Common Search/ComparisonOften compared with other legal support roles like legal assistants or investigators

The Federal Public Defender Investigator primarily conducts investigations to support legal defense cases within federal public defender offices. They typically have backgrounds in criminal justice or law enforcement and work in federal legal environments. This role is distinct from other legal support positions but shares similarities with roles like legal investigators or paralegals in terms of credentials and work setting.

More about Federal Public Defender Investigator jobs

What cities are hiring for Federal Public Defender Investigator jobs?

Cities with the most Federal Public Defender Investigator job openings:

What states have the most Federal Public Defender Investigator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Federal Public Defender Investigator jobs include:

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

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

Federal Public Defender Investigator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Federal Public Defender Investigator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,325 per year, or $36.2 per hour.

Assistant Federal Public Defender

Federal Public Defender

El Paso, TX • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

THE FEDERAL PUBLIC DEFENDER, Western District of Texas, is accepting applications for the position of Assistant Federal Public Defender to be stationed in the El Paso office. The Federal Public Defender operates under authority of the Criminal Justice Act, 18 U.S.C. 3006A, to provide defense services in federal criminal cases and related matters by appointment from the court to individuals unable to afford counsel.
Requirements. An Assistant Federal Public Defender must be (1) a graduate of an accredited law school; (2) admitted to practice before a state bar, but a Texas bar license is strongly preferred; and (3) licensed to practice in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Texas prior to entry on duty. Appointment is subject to a satisfactory background investigation, including but not limited to an FBI name and fingerprint check and an IRS tax check.
Duties. The Assistant Federal Public Defender will represent clients charged with federal criminal offenses and clients involved in other matters covered under the Criminal Justice Act. Regular responsibilities include working with clients; digesting large case files and investigative materials; developing litigation strategies; drafting pleadings; conducting evidentiary hearings and trials; working with experts and other witnesses; and supervising teams of investigators, mitigation specialists, paralegals, and legal assistants. The position requires travel for investigation, litigation, and training, and may involve foreign travel. Federal public defender attorneys may not engage in the private practice of law.
Selection Criteria. The successful applicant will have strong writing and oral advocacy skills, an established capacity or clearly demonstrated aptitude for excellence in criminal defense practice, a commitment to the representation of indigent accused people, and a reputation for integrity. Applicants must also possess the ability to communicate effectively with clients, witnesses, colleagues, staff, and court and agency personnel as part of their employment. Finally, applicants must also be team-oriented and possess skills for collaboration, strategic litigation, compassionate representation, and unique approaches to the issues affecting our clients. Three to five years of federal criminal trial experience is preferred. Spanish-language fluency is preferred.
Salary and Benefits. The salary of an Assistant Federal Public Defender is commensurate with that of an assistant U.S. attorney with similar qualifications and experience. The position is in the excepted service and does not carry the tenure rights of the competitive Civil Service. The position offers federal government employment benefits, including participation in health and life insurance programs, retirement, and the Thrift Savings Plan. Salary is payable only by Electronic Funds Transfer (direct deposit).
Federal Public Defender is an equal-opportunity employer.

Apply