Investigator (Defense)

Posting Date 10/12/26 Application Deadline 10/14/26 Pay Range $29.25 - $48.00 hourly Salary offers are based on the candidate's equivalent experience and internal equity with other employees within the same job classification. The position is eligible for overtime compensation for all hours worked over 40 in the designated workweek. Job Type Unclassified Department Legal Defender About The Position Do you have former law enforcement or military experience with investigative or criminal defense experience? Are you able to prepare investigative reports and assist in the development of defense strategies? The Maricopa County Legal Defender is looking for an experienced investigator who is able to evaluate evidence, crime scenes, and other case-related documents. As an investigator, you would locate and interview potential witnesses, conduct field investigations, testify in court, and work with attorneys, paralegals, and other investigators. About The Office Of The Legal Defender The Office of the Legal Defender consists of attorneys and support staff helping to provide quality legal representation to indigent individuals assigned to us by the court, thus safeguarding the fundamental legal rights of each member of the community. Start your career adventure with us and seek just and equitable treatment for our clients! Proud to Offer Work with a greater purposeTuition reimbursementExceptional work-life balance, with hybrid and alternative work schedule optionsOpportunities for growth and development within Maricopa CountyLow-cost, high-value healthcare for you and your qualifying dependentsChild care benefits, including access to our on-site center Maricopa County Kids Club, dedicated to serving Maricopa County familiesPaid vacation, sick time, and parental leaveExtensive wellness program, including an incentiveEnrollment in the Arizona State Retirement System, a defined retirement benefit requiring a 11.98% per paycheck contribution rate that includes a 100% employer match on Day 1Want to learn more about the County’s Qualifying and Compensation Philosophy? Follow this link to learn more! Work With Us | Maricopa County, AZ We Require Three years of related investigative experienceHigh school diplomaA combination of post-secondary education and/or job-related experience may substitute for the minimum qualifications on a year-for-year basisValid Arizona driver's license upon hire We Also Value Prior law enforcement or military investigative experience, with an emphasis on previous homicide investigation experienceCriminal defense investigative experienceTraining and experience in the forensic/digital sciencesBachelor’s degree in criminal justice or related fieldExperience in an indigent defense office Job Contributions Review and evaluate evidence, crime scenes and case-related documentsPrepare investigative summaries, presentations and/or diagramsAssist in the development of defense strategies and case theoriesTestify in court and conducts jail visitsLocate and Interview potential witnesses in defense of criminal cases which may require in-state/out-of-state travelConduct field investigations, including but not limited to taking photos, videotaping, obtaining witness statements, and preparing courtroom and crime scene diagrams.Interface with criminal authorities, investigators from other law enforcement agencies and contacts at other related agenciesUse and maintain cameras, video and recording devices, computers, motor vehicles and other related equipmentServe subpoenas and provide witness transportation as needed Working Conditions Field and office work, along with travel in and out of stateRequires viewing traumatic subject matter including crime scenes, accidents, etc.Ability to meet deadlines with a high volumes of work and frequent interruptionsRequires contact with the public and close working relationships with other staff membersAbility to lift, carry, or push up to 35 pounds for 200-300 feet Selection Procedure Consideration will only be given to candidates who submit online applicationsCandidates will be contacted primarily through email and their Workday online application profileMust pass a pre-employment background and/or fingerprint investigation as required by statute or policy, including drug and alcohol testing requirements for positions designated as safety-sensitive Maricopa County is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants. If you require a reasonable accommodation during the application process or to perform the essential functions of the position under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), please contact MHRFeedback@maricopa.gov to initiate the interactive process. Apply Now!