Public Defender Investigator - Black River Falls Trial Office

Introduction

The State Public Defender's office (SPD) is recruiting to fill one full-time Public Defender Investigator to work in our Black River Falls Trial Office. The ability to remote work may be an option after the training period and based on operational needs. SPD's mission is to enhance the quality of justice throughout Wisconsin by providing high-quality, cost-effective representation to indigent clients, protecting the rights of accused individuals, and by serving as advocates for effective defense services and a rational criminal justice system.

What We Offer

• Access to excellent comprehensive benefits and compensation, including the region's best health plans
• Generous paid time off starting with 3.5 weeks of vacation, 9 paid holidays, and ample sick leave
• Participation in one of the nation's top-rated pension plans
• Eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program

Why Work With Us

At SPD, we foster an inclusive, human-centered and family-friendly culture where everyone is encouraged to bring their "whole self" to work. Professional development is encouraged and supported with a wide variety of training opportunities. Leadership provides a work environment dedicated to ensuring each staff member is treated with respect and dignity, recognizing each individual's contributions to the team.

Who We Are

SPD provides legal representation for persons accused of crimes or defendants in certain specified civil matters who meet statutory financial eligibility criteria. The mission is to zealously represent clients, protect constitutional rights, and advocate for an effective and fair criminal justice system. Our commitment is to treat our clients with dignity and compassion, as they are at the center of everything we do.

Position Summary

The Public Defender Investigator plans and conducts investigations for staff trial attorneys.

Salary Information

The starting salary for the PDI will be between $24.61 and $28.00/hour (pay schedule-range 07-04) and the starting salary for the PDI-Senior will be between $28.24 and $34.84/hour (pay schedule-range 07-03). Pay will be set in accordance with the Compensation Plan and Wisconsin Administrative Code in effect at the time of hire. A one-year probationary period will be required. Final selected candidates may be eligible for moving expense reimbursement to relocate to the place of employment.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications (Required):

• Proficiency in writing detailed, clear investigative reports using common office software (e.g., Google Docs, Microsoft Word, etc.)
• Communicate effectively and respectfully with diverse individuals from various ethnic, cultural, and socio-economic backgrounds
• Knowledge of the criminal justice system or equivalent
• Strong commitment to the mission and values of public defense

Well-qualified candidates will also have experience and/or training in the following areas:

• Conducting professional-level criminal defense investigation (e.g., complex witness location, detailed interviewing, crime scene analysis, etc.)
• Use of investigative and legal tools such as Skopenow, Cellebrite and/or Westlaw
• Assisting in trial and court preparation (e.g., organizing exhibits, coordinating witnesses, serving subpoenas, testifying, etc.)
• Technological proficiency in evidence management or ability to learn new technologies

Job Details

• Background Check: A criminal background check will be done prior to an offer of employment. We consider all qualified applicants with criminal histories, consistent with applicable federal, state and local law.
• Eligibility to work in the US: The SPD does not sponsor work visas at the time of hire or anytime during employment. All persons hired must verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete the required Employment Eligibility Form I-9.
• Wisconsin driver's license: Possession of a valid WI driver's license must be maintained as a condition of employment.
• Ability to testify: In an effective manner in court procedures. Testifying in an effective manner requires candidates and employees to have no criminal convictions that may allow impeachment of testimony.

How To Apply

To apply, click "Apply for Job" to start the application process. You will be asked to attach a resume and a letter of qualifications. It is important that these materials clearly illustrate how your skills and experience relate to the qualifications required for this job. Your letter of qualifications and resume are very important parts of your application and are used during our evaluation process to determine your qualifications. If both of these documents are not submitted, you will not be eligible for consideration. Application materials will not be accepted if received in an email, as a hard copy or a fax. Materials submitted by all applicants will be evaluated by one or more job experts. Candidates who are deemed eligible will be invited to participate in the next step of the selection process. We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. If you require an accommodation to apply for this position, please reach out to the HR Specialist listed below.

Deadline to Apply: 11:59 pm on Tuesday, July 28, 2026.

Contact: Monica Endres at endresm@opd.wi.gov for questions on this recruitment or how to apply.

This response is AI-generated, for reference only.