Trial Investigator

Overview of the Position The Office of the Federal Public Defender for the District of Colorado seeks a full-time trial investigator to join our office. We operate under authority of the Criminal Justice Act (18 U.S.C. § 3006A), representing individuals unable to afford counsel and prosecuted in our federal courts. Our office is committed to serving the distinct needs of our clients with a diverse group of dedicated professionals. Applicants of any race, color, religion, ethnicity, national origin, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, disability, age, veteran status, and other status protected by law are welcome. Location Denver, CO Opening and Closing Dates 04/09/2026 - Open Until Filled Appointment Type Permanent Classification Level/Grade JSP Grade 14 Salary $140,239 - $182,316 Position Description This position is fully funded. Our investigators collaborate with our attorneys to provide the best defense for our clients. They conduct field investigations, perform witness interviews, gather/examine evidence, and collect records. They meet with incarcerated clients in county jails and state and federal prisons throughout the state. They are also mitigation experts and prepare both case and mitigation reports and court presentations. They are proficient in forensic and demonstrative litigation software. Case investigation will require travel within and outside the state. Our office environment is positive, collaborative, and client-centered, with opportunities for professional growth and advancement. The office has a telework policy that permits employees to work at home up to two days per week. Qualifications Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university, with at least three years of general experience working in an office or business and at least six years of criminal defense investigation experience. Applicants must demonstrate substantial experience in progressively responsible investigative duties, such as: locating and interviewing witnesses; conducting extensive fact and mitigation investigations; memorializing interviews and investigation details in written reports; analyzing discovery and records; serving subpoenas; supporting trial teams, including testifying in court. Based on the nature of our cases and our responsibilities across the state, investigators may work non-traditional work hours (nights and weekends) to include overnight and out-of-town travel. Applicants should have comprehensive knowledge of fact investigation, excellent verbal and written communication skills, demonstrated commitment to criminal defense, and considerable initiative, resourcefulness, creativity, and drive. Preferred but not required: Proficiency/fluency in Spanish. Experience with complex fraud and financial crimes. Experience in capital defense. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or eligible to work in the United States. Applicants must have a valid driver’s license, reliable personal vehicle, and motor vehicle liability insurance. Employment is subject to a satisfactory background investigation, including an FBI name and fingerprint check and an IRS tax check. Employee Benefits This is an “Excepted Appointment,” full-time position with federal benefits and salary commensurate with experience and qualifications within the range of JSP Grade 14 ($140,239 - $182,316). Among the many benefits are the Federal Employees Retirement System, the Thrift Savings Plan (401k), paid annual and sick leave, 11 paid federal holidays, and health, life, disability, long-term care, dental, and vision insurance. Due to the volume of applications expected, this office will only communicate with candidates who are selected for an interview. No inquiries or telephone calls, please. Application Info Qualified individuals should submit a letter of interest, resume, and an anonymized example of an investigative or mitigation report, combined in .pdf format, to Veronica Knights, Personnel Administrator, at View email address on click.appcast.io . Subject reference should be Trial Investigator Position. The federal Judiciary is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. #J-18808-Ljbffr United States Courts