Investigator I

Responsibilities Conducting field investigations. Photographing evidence and crime scenes and preparing related diagrams/charts/graphs as requested by the attorney. Requesting records from various agencies and organizations and obtaining releases from clients as necessary in order to request the appropriate records. Overseeing investigative requests from attorneys within the agency in a timely manner. Locating and interviewing witnesses and obtaining statements if requested by the attorney. Locating clients in accordance with agency guidelines. Questioning individuals and gathering and analysing information in support of potential defenses. Interviewing clients, including clients in jail. Interviewing juvenile clients in juvenile detention. Serving subpoenas. Testifying and presenting evidence in court. Transporting clients on an occasional basis. Documenting work using the agency’s database. Communicating with defendants requesting the agency’s services and collaborating with them to complete an application for services. Performing background checks. Communicating effectively with various agencies within the criminal justice system as needed (e.g., Clerk of Court, jail facilities). Attending First Appearance hearings for newly arrested clients in an effort to proactively identify cases where investigation is needed, or immediate action is required. Performing related work and other duties as assigned. Qualifications Display high standards of ethical conduct, including professional ethics relating to confidentiality, attorney-client privilege, and relationships. Maintain a professional appearance and demeanor. Demonstrate strong work ethic and commitment to the mission of the agency. Maintain composure and perform effectively under stressful conditions. Exhibit strong analytical skills including the ability to research, organise, schedule, analyse, and present investigative findings. Manage multiple assignments and projects simultaneously. Work independently as well as work effectively with team members. Communicate effectively and professionally with clients, staff, witnesses, the public, and others, including with people of various backgrounds, education levels, and cultural diversity, using both verbal and non‑verbal communication skills. Demonstrate and utilise knowledge of investigative techniques, interviewing skills, and observation techniques. Plan, organise, and coordinate work assignments by prioritising and meeting deadlines. Identify problems, determine accuracy and relevance of information, use sound judgement to generate solutions and evaluate alternatives, and communicate recommendations. Understand the criminal justice and court system and exhibit familiarity with legal terminology. Understand and apply relevant rules, regulations, policies, and procedures. Document case files. Operate office equipment, including cameras, video and digital recording equipment, voice recording devices, scanners, and copiers. Utilise computer systems including Microsoft Word, Excel, Power Point, and Outlook. Write in a clear, articulate, and accurate manner using proper and correct English grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Follow written and oral instructions and procedures. Travel to various locations throughout the 20th Judicial Circuit for assignments, field work, and/or training. Education and Experience Graduation from an accredited four‑year college or university in a criminal justice related field and two years’ experience in law enforcement or as an investigator, or an equivalent combination of training and experience. An equivalency diploma issued by a state department of education may be substituted for high school graduation. Language Skills Ability to read, analyse and interpret investigation requests, technical procedures, criminal history records and other reports; write reports, correspondence, timelines and analysis; present oral testimony in court; effectively communicate with clients and witnesses, taking into consideration cultural diversity. Mathematical Skills Ability to add, subtract, multiply and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions and decimals. Reasoning Ability Must be able to understand and/or perform written and/or oral instructions furnished in a variety of ways; evaluate problems, isolate key issues, research and develop alternative solutions. Physical Demands The employee is regularly required to be mobile, drive, speak, hear and stand for extended periods of time; frequently required to sit and reach with hands and arms; occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds. Specific vision abilities required include close vision, distance vision and ability to adjust focus. Certifications, Licences, Registrations Valid Florida Driver’s Licence. Work Environment The noise level for this position is moderate; work environment while conducting field work is varied. Equipment Utilised Computers, printers, copiers, scanners, telephones, calculators, cell phones, cameras and related office equipment. Job Type Full‑time Salary ​$40,000 – $45,000 per year Benefits Access to the Florida Retirement System Health/Dental/Vision/Life insurance Generous Paid Time Off Paid Holidays Tuition waiver Employee Assistance Program Schedule Flexible; Monday – Friday 8 am – 5 pm Location Labelle, FL 33935 Equal Opportunity Statement The Law Offices of the Public Defender, 20th Judicial Circuit, is an equal opportunity provider and employer. #J-18808-Ljbffr