PUBLIC DEFENDER INVESTIGATOR

The salary for this position is: $5,405 - $7,189 monthly.

Thurston County Public Defense is currently recruiting for one (1) full-time Public Defense Investigator. The position of Investigator provides assistance to Defense Attorneys by gathering information, reviewing evidence, and interviewing witnesses that will be used to establish the best possible legal defense for clients. 

Essential functions may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Assist attorneys in analyzing cases from a defense perspective. This may include examination of discovery materials or other information to determine areas in which more factual information is needed, and attendance at pre-trial conferences.
• Collects and evaluates physical and material evidence and discusses findings with attorneys to determine crime connection and admissibility in trial. Conducts crime scene analysis and examination of other physical locations or objects to uncover and identify evidence that will assist in preparing the defense. Takes photographs and measurements, and preparing diagrams, maps charts and scale drawings to be exhibited in courts.
• Conducts investigations for a wide variety of cases to provide support for legal defense. Reviews documents and identifies, evaluates and collects information, data and evidence. Visits scenes, develops leads, contacts and sources of information, interviews clients, witnesses, victims, law enforcement officials, or other relevant individuals to gather statements and information on events surrounding cases.
• Identify and locate known or potential witnesses; assist attorneys in identifying appropriate expert witnesses. Prepares, processes, and serves subpoenas on individuals and organizations. Provides trial assistance by communicating the trial schedule to witnesses, responding to last minute investigation requests and testifying as necessary.
• Maintains complete records of investigation activities that include comprehensive written summaries of interviews and other investigative findings; document contacts; documentation that may include, but is not limited to address verifications, education and employment records, military records, medical records, private industry records, government agency records and criminal records of state and defense witnesses.
• Organizes investigative case files; maintain and update time logs and calendar of due dates and court dates, confer with attorneys regarding investigative status.

To view the full job classification, click here: Public Defender Investigator

WHO WE ARE:
Thurston County Public Defense Mission: “To Defend and Protect Our Clients' Constitutional Rights, One Person at a Time”

Thurston County values the diversity of the people it hires and serves. Inclusion to us means fostering a workplace in which individual differences are recognized, appreciated responded to in ways that fully develop and utilize each person’s talents and strengths. We are dedicated to recruiting and developing a talented workforce from various cult lifestyles, backgrounds, and perspectives who are committed to our vision and core values. Thurston County Racial Equity and Inclusion Webpage.

WHAT WE OFFER EMPLOYEES:

• Work-Life Balance: We are committed to ensure that our staff experience the reward of public service, while also sustaining a routine that suits each individuals’ lifestyle.
• Plan For Your Future: As a member of our team, you will enjoy great employee benefits, including a retirement plan, pre-tax savings accounts, as well as comprehensive health care and dental/vision care for you and your family. Please visit Thurston County Employee Benefit Plans for more information.
• Paid Leave: Full-time regular employees earn paid vacation in addition to paid holidays.
• Robust Training Program: Employees are encouraged to attend County paid training to help them further their career, learn new skill sets, and stay on top of emerging trends in our industry. We also encourage our staff to participate in professional organizations and attend conferences.
• Flexible Work Schedules: Some of the options that employees may take advantage of include alternative or compressed schedules and/or remote working. 
• Deferred Compensation: The County offers 3 voluntary deferred compensation plans for employees who would like to set aside additional deferred tax dollars into a retirement savings plan.
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA): Employees can take advantage of Section 125 flexible spending accounts for out-of-pocket health care and daycare expenses with pre-tax dollars.
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness: This is a federal program which allows full-time public service employees who have made qualifying payments for certain loans, to get their student loans repaid. Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Why you’ll love it here: Thurston County is located between Seattle and Portland in Western Washington’s South Puget Sound Region. Perched in between the mountains a ocean, the area boasts the perfect blend of year-round outdoor activities including boating, hiking, skiing, and more. The region is also home to the state capitol city of Olympia known for its many restaurants, microbreweries, coffee shops, farmer’s markets, kids’ activities, history, and art events. Discover more about life in Thurston County at Experienceolympia.com.

Working Conditions: This position requires incumbents to work in an office and out in the field. Field work will include visiting crime scenes to gather pertinent data, facts, and information. Incumbents may be exposed to sensitive and violent crime scene information, photographs, etc.
Incumbents are required to conduct interviews in person or via phone, encountering hostile, difficult or uncooperative individuals. Must have the ability to assess potentially dangerous situations and act accordingly.
Travel within and outside of the county will be required. Assigned cases may require incumbent to work early hours, extended work hours, weekends and holidays. 

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in criminal justice or other closely related fields and two years' experience as a criminal defense investigator that include gathering, preserving and presenting information. Or, any equivalent combination of experience, education, or training that demonstrates skills, knowledge and abilities to perform the essential functions of the position.
• Must possess knowledge of effective interviewing techniques and methods to include the ability to document facts, ascertain factual discrepancies and employ appropriate action and follow-up.
• Skilled is preparing detailed narrative reports, correspondence and other written materials. Must be able to present information and detailed facts during trials.
• Must possess excellent written, verbal and listening skills.
• Must have proficient computer skills to effectively perform the essential duties of the position.
• Must possess a valid Washington State driver's license or the ability to obtain one within 30 days from date of hire.

DESIRED SKILLS:

• Knowledge of the role of the attorney and investigator relationship and familiarity with the Washington State Bar Association Rules of Professional Responsibility and other ethical standards that govern Investigators.
• Skilled in working with a variety of individuals from diverse backgrounds. Experience working with clients in the criminal justice system preferred.
• Skilled in identifying potential ethical issues and seeking advice or counsel when ethical issues arise or require clarification.
• Strong communication skills and effective listening skills with the ability to accurately document interviews and meetings.

OTHER POSITION RELATED INFORMATION:
Questions about this recruitment? Please contact Katelyn Vena, at katelyn.vena@co.thurston.wa.us. 
 

This position is:

• Not represented by a Union
• Eligible for benefits
• Eligible for overtime under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)

Items required for consideration:

• Application
• Letter of Interest
• Resume
• Applicant Disclosure Form Pursuant to RCW Section 43.43.830 (Supplemental Questionnaire)

Please note: Information in this announcement is subject to change without notice at any time during the length of the job advertisement.

THURSTON COUNTY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Thurston County is committed to provide equal opportunity to all persons seeking or having access to its employment, services and activities, which is free from restriction based on race, sex, marital status, color, creed or religion, national origin, age, sexual orientation, including gender expression or identity, pregnancy, status as an honorably discharged veteran or military status, genetic information, or the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability, unless based upon bona fide occupational qualifications. Applicants with disabilities who need accommodation with the application or selection process should contact Thurston County’s Human Resources, at (360) 786-5498.  Those who are deaf, deaf-blind, hard of hearing or speech impaired may use the statewide relay system to reach Thurston County offices and departments to conduct their business telephonically. Relay users can simply dial 7-1-1 (or 1-800-833-6388) to connect with Washington Relay.