Criminal Defense Investigator - Public Defender (OPEN & PROMOTIONAL)

Note: Current Employees must use the Workday Dashboard career section to apply for this position. Employee Type: Regular Department: Public Defender Salary: $63,814.40 - $88,878.40 Annually / $5,317.87 - $7,406.53 Monthly / $30.68 - $42.73 Hourly Scheduled Weekly Hours: 40 Overtime Eligibile: Yes Job Posting Date Range: 06/02/2026 - Until Filled Job Summary: WHO MAY APPLY: This recruitment is open to all applicants meeting the minimum requirements. Priority consideration will be given to Spokane County employees in a position covered by the 1553 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) submitting applications between 6/02/26 and 6/09/26. The position allocated to this class is responsible for independently performing extensive, specialized investigative tasks requiring a broad understanding of criminal law, criminal procedure and current forensic principles. Under the general direction of a designated supervisor, job duties include the collection and evaluation of evidence relative to active cases before the Public Defender and Counsel for Defense. This classification differs from investigative classifications in the County Sheriff’s Department by its lack of powers of arrest and requirement to carry a firearm. It differs from the Investigator classification within the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office by more extensive and complex investigation duties required in criminal defense work. Job Description: ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS Plans and independently conducts a full range of criminal investigations which may include homicides, robberies, sexual assaults, crimes against children, property crimes, narcotics, etc. Reviews case information, police reports, photographs, supporting documents, forensic evidence and witness statements to plan and conduct investigations. Manages a large case load in an accurate and timely manner; sets priorities and balances the competing aspects of urgent requests; maintains detailed records concerning work performed, work still to be completed and deadlines. Works closely with the attorney assigned to the case in preparation for trial including maintaining all necessary investigative files; reading, reviewing and analyzing pertinent police reports for investigative sufficiency; assisting the attorney in reviewing the case and providing detailed information relative to the investigation in a thorough and professional manner. Ascertains, locates and obtains necessary case related documents. Identifies, locates, tracks and interviews witnesses, victims and defendants. Takes statements and conducts interviews either in the field or office and creates related reports. Confers with attorneys on the reliability and credibility of witnesses; helps prepare witness testimony. Answers questions and explains court procedures as needed. Interviews law enforcement officers and others who may have official or professional information relevant to a legal defense. Establishes and maintains equitable working relationships with agencies, groups and individuals, both public and private, including varied social service and education agencies; coordinates particular efforts of the department with these entities. Gains and maintains current knowledge in a broad scope of forensic fields including DNA analysis, photography, videographic evidence (surveillance/body cams), fingerprints, eyewitness identification, digital media from lap tops, smart phones, tablets, social media searches, self-defense and use of force issues, interpretation of crime scene photography/measurements/CAD drawings and all other applicable areas. Utilizes a variety of electronic equipment and tools, including computers, digital voice recorders, digital cameras, video cameras and recorders, GPS systems, and other related software applications and web-based resources to search for information and potential leads helpful in locating individuals pertinent to the case, including researching and locating expert witnesses. Downloads, opens, converts and copies a large variety of digital media. Inspects, evaluates and reworks crime scenes, including measuring, sketching and photographing the crime scene. Documents observations, evidence and prepares diagrams, charts and scale drawings for use as exhibits in court. Prepares detailed written reports, acceptable as evidence in court, which accurately and completely communicate the investigator’s unbiased observation of the facts as discovered during the course of the investigation. May prepare demonstrative evidence for courtroom presentations; transport witnesses; provide courtroom testimony as needed. Gathers, marks, records and preserves physical evidence; determines the importance and relevance of the evidence in investigations; identifies the need to collect additional evidence and does so as necessary. Develops a comprehensive understanding of law enforcement practices and communications including understanding radio traffic, Computer Aided Dispatch reports, policy/procedure for local agencies and familiarity with law enforcement structure and idioms. Processes service, including serving subpoenas to individuals and other entities such as businesses, health care providers, government agencies, and other organizations. Establishes and maintains rapport with those elements within society which possess information beneficial to the work of the department and positions. May conduct surveillance to locate and develop information material to the case. Develops criminal and/or civil intelligence. Travels outside of County or State to conduct investigations. Assists in and contributes to the development of case theory and trial strategies, and monitors case development for new leads and theory modifications. Trains, supervises, and mentors interns to enhance their competency in the criminal justice field. Serves as an office liaison on all related case investigations with other departments and agencies. Performs other related duties as required/assigned. EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university, preferably in criminal justice or a social science field, AND Three (3) years of experience in a position that required gathering, organizing, preserving and presenting data/information- preferably in an investigative capacity. The education requirement may be substituted with four (4) years of criminal investigation experience. Possession of a valid Driver's License at time of hire and for the duration of employment. NOTE: Must successfully pass a criminal background check. Must be physically able to drive and perform field work. Work requires the incumbent to own or have regular access to a privately owned and reliable vehicle capable of accommodating at least two passengers. Must meet requirements of the Spokane County Vehicle Use Policy. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES Knowledge of the criminal justice system and investigative practices and procedures. Knowledge of criminal procedure and applicable case law, including the laws of arrest, search and seizure, subpoena service, rules of evidence, etc. Knowledge of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW), as it pertains to criminal procedures. Knowledge of effective interviewing and interrogating techniques. Knowledge of laboratory procedures, methods and uses of scientific investigative equipment and analysis incident to the investigation of crimes. Skilled in communicating effectively both orally and in writing, sufficient to exchange or convey information and to give and receive work direction. Skilled in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships. Skilled in the use of computers, smart phones, tablets, cameras, video recorders and other electronic devices and their associated media. Familiarity with Outlook, MS Word, Excel and other Windows software. Ability to objectively gather, compile, analyze and evaluate facts and evidence. Ability to draw logical conclusions and formulate sound recommendations. Ability to determine priorities and importance of various types of evidence. Ability to quickly take accurate and extensive notes of interviews. Ability to prepare thorough and accurate reports. Ability to maintain composure during tense, emotional or confrontational situations. Ability to work independently. Ability to occasionally work unusual hours including weekends and holidays as needed to complete investigations. Ability to relate at a calm, respectful, diplomatic and effective level with a wide range of people from varied socio-economic and cultural backgrounds. Ability to recognize potentially hostile situations; adapt to a wide variety of environments; diffuse, de-escalate or disengage tense verbal situations. Ability to negotiate effectively and remain calm and reasonable when confronted with emotionally charged situations or conflicting fact patterns. Ability to maintain strict confidentiality with regard to all information gathered. Ability to exercise good judgment and tact in dealing with sensitive cases. Ability to learn and adapt to changing technology and methods. Ability to maintain a high degree of organization for tracking caseloads of up to 100 open cases through the use of digital records. BEHAVIORAL STANDARDS All County employees are responsible for contributing to a safe and positive work environment, actively demonstrating the County values in their daily work and interactions: Respect: Appreciating and valuing customers, other County employees and County leadership by showing courtesy, friendliness and fairness. Communicating in a productive and professional manner. Accountability: Honoring and delivering on commitments by taking responsibility for personal actions and results; being a responsible steward of public resources and the trust County residents have placed in each of us. Integrity: Modelling transparent and ethical behavior and demonstrating it with honest and trustworthy behaviors and actions; leading by example and performing work to the highest standards. Innovation: Striving for excellence by actively pursuing opportunities for new and improved methods, procedures or technologies; fostering an environment of engagement and empowerment and embracing continuous improvement. WORKING CONDITIONS The work environment is primarily inside, where the noise and temperature levels are moderate. Work is also performed outdoors and requires occasional travel within the County, exposing the employee to weather extremes, various forms of precipitation and the hazards associated with travel on public roads. Total Compensation: $81,682 - $113,764 Annually Total compensation is an estimate based upon base compensation, median retirement fund contributions, and current employer-paid health and related benefit contribution rates (including medical, dental, life insurance, long term disability, and leave). The actual total will vary depending upon each employee's enrollment choices. Please select the link below to view Spokane County Benefits: Benefits | Spokane County, WA Here are just a few reasons: Community Impact: Many people find fulfillment in public service, knowing their work has a positive impact on the lives of Spokane County residents. Whether through public safety, infrastructure projects, or social services, employees can make a meaningful difference in residents' lives while contributing to the overall well-being and development of the community. Diverse Job Opportunities: Spokane County employs a diverse workforce, offering positions in fields such as law enforcement, social services, animal control, parks and recreation, administration, and more. This diversity allows for many employment opportunities for individuals with different backgrounds and skill sets. Job Stability and Benefits: Spokane County offers competitive salaries and benefits packages, including healthcare, vacation time, and retirement and pension plans that provide long-term financial security for employees. Career Growth: There are various opportunities for career advancement within Spokane County. We invest in employee training and professional development, enhancing employees' skills and qualifications. Work-Life Balance: We emphasize work-life balance, with reasonable work hours and policies that support employee well-being. If you’re seeking stability and a predictable schedule, you’re in the right place! Inclusive Workplace Culture: Spokane County aims to foster an inclusive and supportive workplace culture, promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion among its employees. Spokane boasts: Natural Beauty: Spokane is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including rivers, lakes, and nearby mountains. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as hiking, skiing, and boating. From golf course to parks and trails along the Spokane River, there's something for everyone who enjoys the outdoors. Affordable Living: Compared to many other cities on the West Coast, Spokane has a relatively low cost of living. Housing prices are more affordable, making it easier to buy a home or rent. Four Seasons: Spokane experiences all four seasons distinctly. Summers are warm and dry, while winters bring snowfall, making it ideal for those who enjoy seasonal variety. Cultural Scene: The city has a vibrant cultural scene with numerous art galleries, theaters, and music venues. Events such as the Spokane Symphony and First Friday art walks contribute to the city's cultural richness. Community Feel: Spokane is known for its friendly and welcoming community. It has a strong sense of local pride and community involvement. Educational Opportunities: The city is home to several universities and colleges, providing educational and cultural opportunities. This includes Gonzaga University, Washington State University Spokane, Whitworth University, and Eastern Washington University. Healthcare Facilities: Spokane boasts excellent healthcare facilities, including Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center and Deaconess Hospital, ensuring residents have access to quality medical care. Family-Friendly: With good schools, safe neighborhoods, and numerous family-oriented activities, Spokane is a great place to raise a family. Central Location: Spokane's location in eastern Washington makes it a hub for travel throughout the Pacific Northwest. It's close to other major cities like Seattle and Portland, as well as outdoor destinations like national parks and recreation areas. Overall, Spokane offers a balanced lifestyle with a mix of outdoor adventure, cultural amenities, and community spirit, making it a desirable place to live and work! Click to learn more about our extensive benefits package.