Investigator: Build Timelines, Uncover Truths

Siouxland Heritage Museums; Sioux Falls (SD); On-site; USD 44,000 - 49,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, vision, and life_insur

PTO from day one

Extended sick leave

SDRS retirement system benefits

Deferred compensation plan

Job summary

Minnehaha County Public Defender's Office is seeking an Investigator to perform professional investigative work supporting defense attorneys. You will interview witnesses, review records, and gather evidence to inform case strategy in the public defense system.

This role emphasizes factual accuracy, timelines, and compassionate outreach to clients, with a strong team focus and opportunities to impact justice in our community.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in criminal justice, sociology, political science, or related field with at least one year of investigatory experience.
• Must pass pre-employment background check.
• Valid driver''s license or ability to arrange transportation for field travel.
• Working knowledge of South Dakota law and law enforcement policies and procedures.
• Knowledge of principles, methods, and techniques of criminal investigation including gathering, preserving, and presenting evidence.
• Knowledge of effective interviewing methods and techniques.
• Ability to work effectively with witnesses of the criminal justice system.
• Ability to demonstrate cultural mindfulness in all communications.
• Ability to understand and follow written and verbal directions.
• Knowledge of and skill in using technology and related software systems.
• Effective verbal and written communication.
• Ability to build and maintain positive, collaborative relationships with coworkers, other agencies, and the public.
• Present a professional appearance and communicate with others in a respectful and approachable way.

Responsibilities

• Interview key witnesses and examine scenes to gather information.
• Build timelines and create visual exhibits to support defense.
• Verify information and challenge unsupported claims.
• Collaborate with attorneys to craft precise case strategies.
• Ensure investigations are thorough, fair, and compassionate.

Skills

Verbal communication

Written communication

Interpersonal skills

Interview techniques

Criminal investigations knowledge

Technology literacy

Education

Bachelor's degree in criminal justice, sociology, political science, or related field

Job description

Minnehaha County Public Defender's Office is seeking an Investigator to perform professional investigative work supporting defense attorneys. You will interview witnesses, review records, and gather evidence to inform case strategy in the public defense system.

This role emphasizes factual accuracy, timelines, and compassionate outreach to clients, with a strong team focus and opportunities to impact justice in our community.