Investigator

Allegheny County; Pittsburgh (Allegheny County); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a dedicated team as an Investigator in the Office of the Public Defender, where you will play a crucial role in supporting legal representation for indigent clients. This position involves conducting thorough investigations, preparing detailed reports, and collaborating closely with attorneys. You will utilize your investigative skills to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and ensure that justice is served. An opportunity to make a significant impact in the community awaits you, as you navigate the complexities of the criminal justice system. If you are passionate about advocacy and possess the skills to thrive in a challenging environment, this role is perfect for you.

Qualifications

• 4+ years of experience as an investigator in the criminal justice field.
• Strong knowledge of Pennsylvania law and investigative techniques.

Responsibilities

• Conduct ongoing investigations in criminal matters to support attorneys.
• Prepare reports, collect evidence, and testify in court.

Skills

Investigative Skills

Report Writing

Communication Skills

Multitasking

Knowledge of Pennsylvania Law

Education

High School Diploma

Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice or related field

Tools

Cellebrite Software

Microsoft Office

Legal Edge

Job description

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.

Salary: $22.0232 per hour

Minimum Requirements:

• High school diploma or its equivalent AND a minimum of four (4) years’ experience as an investigator in the criminal justice field, or
• An Associate’s degree in Criminal Justice, Criminology, Digital Forensics, Computer Science, Social Services, Anthropology, or a related field AND two (2) years of related experience.

Act 33/34 Clearances are required prior to appointment at the cost of the applicant.

Applicants must possess and maintain a valid PA Driver's License throughout employment.

It is the policy of Allegheny County that in order to receive a final offer of employment, candidates must successfully pass a background check, which includes verification of Allegheny County Real Estate Tax status.

Position Summary:

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.

Overview:

Duties:

• 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.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge of:

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

Skill in:

• Microsoft Office products.

Ability to:

• 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.

Residency: Allegheny County within 1 year.

Veterans' Preference: Will be awarded to eligible candidates.

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER - M/F/V/D

Apply Online