Investigator Sioux Falls, SD

POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT
INVESTIGATOR

Overview: The Federal Public Defender for the Districts of South Dakota and North Dakota seeks an Investigator to join our branch office in Sioux Falls South Dakota. Our office provides high-quality client-centered representation to individuals charged with federal crimes who cannot afford retained counsel pursuant to the Criminal Justice Act.

Investigators are integral members of the defense team and play a critical role in ensuring thorough ethical and effective representation at every stage of a case.

Why Our Office: The Federal Public Defender for the Districts of South Dakota and North Dakota is a collegial mission-driven office committed to excellent defense work. Our practice includes serious and complex federal cases that require careful investigation strategic thinking and close collaboration among attorneys investigators paralegals and support staff.

Investigators in our office are trusted professionals who work with significant independence and responsibility. They are encouraged to exercise sound judgment creativity and initiative in developing investigative strategies while working collaboratively with attorneys to advance client-centered defense goals. We value professionalism discretion and teamwork and we place a high premium on integrity and respectfor our clients and for one another.

About Sioux Falls: Sioux Falls is the largest city in South Dakota and the economic and cultural center of the eastern region of the state. Situated along the Big Sioux River the city blends natural beauty with urban convenience offering extensive parks greenway trails and quick access to outdoor recreation such as biking running fishing and kayaking.

Sioux Falls is known for its affordable housing low commute times strong public schools and vibrant and expanding arts food and entertainment scene. The community consistently ranks among the nations most livable mid-sized cities providing an excellent environment for individuals and families. It is a compelling location for professionals seeking meaningful work in a setting that balances quality of life with opportunities for engagement and growth.

Position Description: Investigators work closely with attorneys to develop and execute investigative strategies in federal criminal cases. Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

Reviewing and analyzing discovery records and other case materials
Meeting regularly with clients to discuss discovery investigative findings and mitigation
Locating interviewing and documenting statements from witnesses including lay expert and law-enforcement witnesses
Preparing detailed investigative reports and maintaining accurate case documentation
Assisting attorneys with hearings and trials including witness coordination evidence preparation and evaluation of testimony
Coordinating with experts by gathering records clarifying investigative issues and assisting with evaluations as needed
Investigating client background information including medical psychological educational employment and criminal history for mitigation and sentencing purposes
Serving subpoenas and facilitating witness appearances
Preparing and managing digital evidence including audio and video recordings

Some travel is required and work may occasionally occur outside normal business hours.

Required Qualifications: Above all we seek applicants with a demonstrated commitment to indigent defense and the ability to work effectively in a collaborative team-oriented environment.

Minimum qualifications include:

High school diploma or equivalent
Six years of total experience including at least three years of investigative or other professional information-gathering experience
o Education beyond high school at accredited institutions may substitute for some experience requirements
Ability to understand and maintain strict confidentiality including attorney-client privilege
Strong organizational skills sound judgment and the ability to work independently
United States citizenship or authorization to work in the United States
Valid drivers license

Special Working Conditions: This position requires frequent travel to Native American communities in eastern South Dakota. Prior experience working with Native American communities is valued but not required. Casework may involve violent crimes and/or sexual offenses. Occasional overnight travel and the ability to lift or move up to 50 pounds may be required.

Salary and Benefits: Salary is commensurate with experience and falls within Judicial Pay Scale JSP-11 to JSP-14 currently ranging from $74678 to $163514. This is a full-time position with comprehensive federal benefits including health and life insurance retirement and participation in the Thrift Savings Plan. Salary is paid bi-weekly via direct deposit. Final offers of employment are contingent upon funding availability and successful completion of a background investigation.

How to Apply: Applicants should submit a letter of interest résumé and three references combined into a single PDF to using the subject line Investigator Announcement 26-08. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

The Federal Public Defender for the Districts of South Dakota and North Dakota is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women and minorities encouraged to apply.

Position Announcement #26-08