DEPUTY DISTRICT ATTORNEY IV (CRIMINAL)

Washoe County; Reno (NV); On-site; USD 110,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Washoe County is seeking a Deputy District Attorney IV (Chief) in the Criminal Division to lead complex criminal matters and guide a team of prosecutors. The position supports the new administration starting January 2027 and emphasizes leadership, mentoring, trial excellence, and strategic thinking.

The ideal candidate holds an ABA‑accredited law degree, a Nevada license, and can practice before federal courts.

Qualifications

• Juris doctor degree from ABA-accredited law school.
• Significant legal experience equivalent to Deputy District Attorney III in Washoe County.
• Current Nevada bar license and eligibility to practice in federal courts.
• Ability to supervise and mentor junior attorneys.
• Strong leadership, problem solving, and strategic thinking.

Responsibilities

• Develop and present complex cases in administrative, legislative, and judicial settings.
• Supervise Deputy District Attorneys I-III as required.
• Perform administrative duties.
• Lead and mentor staff to improve trial performance.
• Maintain high ethical standards and public service commitment.

Skills

Leadership

Mentoring

Trial experience

Problem-solving

Strategic thinking

Emotional intelligence

Professionalism

Commitment to service

Education

ABA-accredited law degree

Job description

Incoming Washoe County District Attorney Wes Duncan is accepting applications for Deputy District Attorney IV (\"Chief\") position(s) in the Criminal Division.

Intent: Mr. Duncan seeks candidates wishing to work in the new administration starting early January 2027. During the interview process, candidates will be assessed on their leadership skills, mentoring ability, trial experience, total time as a prosecutor, problem-solving skills, strategic and critical thinking, emotional intelligence, professionalism, commitment to the Office's mission, and desire to serve in a leadership position.

Please note: The interview process will be competitive and open to all applicants, including those currently working in the Office.

The Deputy District Attorney IV performs the widest variety of professional legal work as assigned in the District Attorney's Office; develops, prepares, and presents the most complex issues and cases requiring appearance before administrative, legislative and judicial tribunals along with associated work and trial work; and performs related work as required; assigns work and supervises (as required) Deputy District Attorneys I, II and III; and performs administrative duties.

For more information on this position, please see the Job Specification at https://www.washoecounty.gov/humanresources/Careers/jobspecs.php Equivalent to graduation from an ABA accredited law school. Substantial legal experience equivalent to that of a Deputy District Attorney III in the assigned area of practice in Washoe County, or equivalent experience.

License Or Certificate

Current, valid license to practice law issued by the Nevada Supreme Court and membership in the State Bar of Nevada. Must be able to be admitted to practice in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Nevada, Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, and the United States Supreme Court.

This is an unclassified, appointed position.

Upon selection, candidates must successfully pass an extensive background check and investigation conducted by the District Attorney’s Office and submit a complete set of fingerprints.

Washoe County requires its employees to reside in the state of Nevada or neighboring California communities such as Truckee, South Lake Tahoe or Susanville as of their first day of work.

Washoe County hires all new employees at the minimum rate of the salary range and eligible employees may receive an annual merit increase of 5% until they reach the maximum salary for the classification. Upon promotion, current Washoe County employees are placed at the minimum rate of the salary range for the higher classification of the new position OR a promotional calculation, whichever is greater.

Interviews are tentatively scheduled for Monday, November 2, 2026 and Tuesday November 3, 2026.

Washoe County is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse workforce that creates a sense of belonging for all employees and citizens, thereby encouraging persons from all backgrounds and experiences to apply for employment.

Washoe County will recruit, hire, train and promote into all job levels without regard to race, religion or belief, gender, marital status or domestic partnership, familial status, national origin, age, mental or physical disability, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, genetic information (GINA), veteran status, political affiliation, membership in an employee association or union or any other protected class under applicable federal or state law.