Public Defense Investigator (CS/TLT/SDA)

Summary This position is part of an eligibility pool for short‑term Public Defense Investigator roles, including Career Service (CS), Term‑Limited Temporary (TLT), and Special Duty Assignment (SDA) assignments that may become available within the next six months. Candidates may be assigned to any division and located in either Seattle or Kent. Job Duties Work onsite as well as at various locations—including courts and jail facilities—across the county. Work 40 hours a week with occasional overtime as needed. Use professional communication skills and demonstrate empathy with DPD’s clients and the community. Assist attorneys in analyzing cases from a defense perspective, reviewing discovery materials and other information. Conduct crime‑scene analysis and examination of physical locations or objects to identify evidence for defense, including photographing and mapping findings for court. Identify and locate witnesses and assist in selecting appropriate expert witnesses. Conduct in‑depth interviews with victims, witnesses, police, medical personnel, clients, and others; develop and prioritize questions to obtain necessary information. Prepare comprehensive written summaries of interviews and investigative findings and document contacts. Obtain and review reports, records, and other information; identify and obtain public‑record information. Compile and deliver digital and social‑media information and criminal‑record data of witnesses. Prepare, process, and serve subpoenas. Organize investigative case files and maintain logs of due dates, court dates, and investigation status. Provide trial assistance, such as scheduling witnesses, responding to last‑minute requests, and testifying as needed. Maintain current knowledge of related legal issues and standards. Attend training, meetings, and unit activities as appropriate. Provide in‑court testimony when required by the assigned attorney. Other duties as assigned. Required Qualifications Bachelor’s degree and two years of experience as a criminal defense investigator or equivalent defense‑oriented investigative experience OR a combination of experience, education, and training that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. Ability to travel to required destinations within King County promptly. Minimum age of 21 years. Knowledge Of Interview methods, techniques, and procedures, including recognition of factual discrepancies and investigative follow‑up. Criminal law, the legal system, and legal terminology. Skill In Working with individuals from diverse backgrounds to serve vulnerable clients. Handling confidential information securely. Preparing detailed narrative reports, correspondence, and other written materials. Identifying potential ethical issues and seeking advice when needed. Observing and obtaining information from all relevant sources. Working independently, setting priorities, and meeting deadlines. Ability To Build trust with clients and people impacted by the criminal legal system. Use effective communication, listening, and interview skills while accurately documenting interviews. Respond to inquiries from clients, staff, and court personnel and testify effectively at trial, sentencing, or other hearings. Assess potentially dangerous situations and perform de‑escalation techniques. Work efficiently and calmly under pressure. Use office productivity tools such as Microsoft Office 365 and relevant technology. Use mapping/diagramming software and enter data accurately. Search and analyze social networks and information databases. Demonstrate analytical, organizational, and problem‑solving skills. Preferred Qualifications Lived experience involving the criminal legal system. Fluency in a foreign language. Work Schedule and Location Hybrid model: days in the office and telecommuting; ratio of remote to onsite work depends on business needs. Primary onsite locations may be Seattle (Dexter Horton Building or Jefferson Street Building) or Kent (Meeker Street Building). Employees must reside in Washington state and be within a reasonable distance to the worksite. Standard workweek is 40 hours (Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.) and is non‑exempt with overtime eligibility. Union Membership Positions in this classification are recognized by Service Employees International Union, Local 925. Equal Employment Opportunity King County is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. No person is unlawfully excluded from employment opportunities based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation, and pregnancy), age, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or other protected class. Our EEO policy applies to all employment actions. #J-18808-Ljbffr King County, WA