What are the responsibilities and job description for the Investigator position at Public Defender Services of Lane County?
Position summary
The investigator supports PDSLC’s mission by conducting thorough, trauma‑informed factual investigations for adult criminal cases. This role is ideal for someone who is curious, steady, and motivated by fairness. Investigators work closely with attorneys, clients, witnesses, and community partners to uncover information that strengthens the defense and supports equitable outcomes for adults navigating the criminal legal system.
Investigators help ensure that every client’s story is fully understood. Your work directly shapes case strategy, informs negotiations, and supports trial preparation. You will be part of a collaborative team committed to dignity, equity, and high‑quality public defense. PDSLC is a dog‑friendly, mission‑driven workplace where collaboration and compassion guide daily work.
- Conduct field investigations, including witness interviews, scene visits, and evidence collection.
- Meet with adult clients in custody and in the community to gather information and build rapport.
- Identify, locate, and interview witnesses using trauma‑informed, culturally responsive practices.
- Document incident scenes through photographs, measurements, diagrams, and written observations.
- Obtain records such as police reports, medical files, surveillance footage, and digital evidence.
- Compile background information, including criminal history and social history, to support mitigation.
- Collaborate with attorneys to refine investigative plans and provide timely updates.
- Assist with subpoenas, service of process, witness coordination, and preparation of exhibits.
- Testify in court
- Maintain organized, accurate, and timely investigative reports.
- Under supervision of attorney, help execute civil compromise agreements
- Comply with Oregon DPSST Private Investigator Professional Code of Ethics (PI‑27).
- Apply and adhere to standard rules of evidence when gathering, preserving, and documenting information.
- Uphold confidentiality, ethical obligations, and PDSLC’s values in all interactions.
- Experience conducting investigations, interviewing witnesses, or performing fact‑finding work in legal, social services, journalism, or related fields.
- Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively with people from diverse backgrounds.
- Ability to manage multiple deadlines, travel within Lane County and sometimes other areas of Oregon, and work independently.
- Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
- Comfort with technology, including case‑management systems and digital evidence platforms.
- Must possess a valid Oregon DPSST Private Investigator License or be eligible to obtain an Oregon DPSST Provisional Private Investigator License within 30 days of hire.
- Must pass the Oregon Test of Investigator Competency and complete the required fingerprint‑based criminal background check.
- For provisional applicants: full licensure must be obtained within the statutory timeline required by DPSST by accumulating the remaining necessary investigative experience hours under internal agency supervision.
- Prior experience in criminal defense, prosecution, law enforcement, or investigative journalism.
- Training in trauma‑informed interviewing, de‑escalation, or cultural humility.
- Familiarity with Oregon criminal procedure and local justice‑system partners.
- Spanish or other language proficiency.
This role includes a mix of office work, fieldwork, and visits to custodial settings. Fieldwork may involve homes, businesses, rural locations, and detention facilities. Some evening or weekend work may occur based on case needs. PDSLC is a dog‑friendly office.
PDSLC offers competitive compensation and employer‑sponsored medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and their dependents. Employees also receive retirement benefits, paid leave, and ongoing professional development opportunities. Salary is determined by experience and internal equity.
Tier 2 Step 1: $69,202 annually Step 2: $71,989 annually
Tier 3 Step 1: $77,834 annually
How to apply
To apply, please email your resume and a cover letter to personnel@lanepds.org. Applications without cover letters will not be considered.
Salary : $61,506 - $77,834