Applications are submitted online until the position is filled and/or the posting is closed. After reviewing this job announcement, please click on the link at the bottom of the page to apply online. A resume is required with the application. Further instructions on submission of documents are available in the online application. A resume may not be substituted for an application.

The position of Investigator within the Office of the Public Defender is responsible for conducting ongoing investigations in pending criminal matters. The investigative work product is to support staff attorneys in their representation of indigent adults and juveniles charged with crimes. The position reports to the Manager of Investigations and Deputy Director of the Major Felony Unit.

• Works closely with assigned staff attorneys.
• Works confidently within the confines of a non-law enforcement investigation.
• Timely locates, and interviews as necessary witnesses, victims, clients, etc. 
• Timely delivers subpoenas to witnesses and obtains written records.
• Develops, leads and maintains reliable sources of information.
• Assesses crime scenes.
• Identifies, documents, collects and preserves potential evidence.
• Prepares written reports of investigative activities. 
• Prepares photographic evidence, charts, diagrams, and exhibits pertinent to case investigations and court presentations.
• Accompanies attorneys during interviews of clients and witnesses in preparation for court proceedings.
• Utilizes office case management system (Legal Edge) to track cases, submit materials and respond to requests.
• Reviews and analyzes discovery materials to assist attorneys in developing strategies and plans for further investigative activities.
• Retrieves, indexes and summarizes case-related records (medical, legal, etc.).
• Testifies in court proceedings.
• Assists in the mitigation investigation, particularly for death penalty clients and juvenile clients facing life without parole by coordinating with the assigned staff attorney and Manager of Investigations/Deputy Director.
• Supports other Investigators, administrative staff and attorneys at the direction of the Director, Deputy Directors and Manager of Investigations during periods of need to ensure the efficient operation of the office. 
• May perform other related duties as assigned or requested.

• Pennsylvania Law.
• Social service resources, mental health issues and drug/alcohol addictions.
• Professional report writing techniques.
• Cellebrite software.

• Microsoft Office products.

• Testify competently and professionally in court concerning findings of investigations.
• Maintain the confidentiality of case related information.
• Adapt to unfamiliar environments outside of the office, including a variety of communities, shelters, prisons and other institutional locations.
• Capture photographic images and access data preserved digitally.
• Communicate effectively both orally and in writing in fluent English.
• Multitask.  
• Develop rapport with clients and working relationships with system professionals, attorneys and community members.
• Work weekends and evenings, as assigned.
• Operate and understand various computer hardware and software.