Investigator (Defense)

Posting Date
10/12/26
Application Deadline
10/14/26
Pay Range
$29.25 - $48.00 hourly
Salary offers are based on the candidate's equivalent experience and internal equity with other employees within the same job classification. The position is eligible for overtime compensation for all hours worked over 40 in the designated workweek.
Job Type
Unclassified
Department
Legal Defender
About the Position
Do you have former law enforcement or military experience with investigative or criminal defense experience? Are you able to prepare investigative reports and assist in the development of defense strategies?
The Maricopa County Legal Defender is looking for an experienced investigator who is able to evaluate evidence, crime scenes, and other case-related documents. As an investigator, you would locate and interview potential witnesses, conduct field investigations, testify in court, and work with attorneys, paralegals, and other investigators.
About the Office of the Legal Defender
The Office of the Legal Defender consists of attorneys and support staff helping to provide quality legal representation to indigent individuals assigned to us by the court, thus safeguarding the fundamental legal rights of each member of the community.
Start your career adventure with us and seek just and equitable treatment for our clients!
Proud to Offer
Work with a greater purpose
Tuition reimbursement
Exceptional work-life balance, with hybrid and alternative work schedule options
Opportunities for growth and development within Maricopa County
Low-cost, high-value healthcare for you and your qualifying dependents
Child care benefits, including access to our on-site center Maricopa County Kids Club, dedicated to serving Maricopa County families
Paid vacation, sick time, and parental leave
Extensive wellness program, including an incentive
Enrollment in the Arizona State Retirement System, a defined retirement benefit requiring a 11.98% per paycheck contribution rate that includes a 100% employer match on Day 1
Want to learn more about the County’s Qualifying and Compensation Philosophy? Follow this link to learn more! Work With Us | Maricopa County, AZ
We Require
Three years of related investigative experience
High school diploma
A combination of post-secondary education and/or job-related experience may substitute for the minimum qualifications on a year-for-year basis
Valid Arizona driver's license upon hire
We Also Value
Prior law enforcement or military investigative experience, with an emphasis on previous homicide investigation experience
Criminal defense investigative experience
Training and experience in the forensic/digital sciences
Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice or related field
Experience in an indigent defense office
Job Contributions
Review and evaluate evidence, crime scenes and case-related documents
Prepare investigative summaries, presentations and/or diagrams
Assist in the development of defense strategies and case theories
Testify in court and conducts jail visits
Locate and Interview potential witnesses in defense of criminal cases which may require in-state/out-of-state travel
Conduct field investigations, including but not limited to taking photos, videotaping, obtaining witness statements, and preparing courtroom and crime scene diagrams.
Interface with criminal authorities, investigators from other law enforcement agencies and contacts at other related agencies
Use and maintain cameras, video and recording devices, computers, motor vehicles and other related equipment
Serve subpoenas and provide witness transportation as needed
Working Conditions
Field and office work, along with travel in and out of state
Requires viewing traumatic subject matter including crime scenes, accidents, etc.
Ability to meet deadlines with a high volumes of work and frequent interruptions
Requires contact with the public and close working relationships with other staff members
Ability to lift, carry, or push up to 35 pounds for 200-300 feet
Selection Procedure
Consideration will only be given to candidates who submit online applications
Candidates will be contacted primarily through email and their Workday online application profile
Must pass a pre-employment background and/or fingerprint investigation as required by statute or policy, including drug and alcohol testing requirements for positions designated as safety-sensitive
Maricopa County is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants. If you require a reasonable accommodation during the application process or to perform the essential functions of the position under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), please contact MHRFeedback@maricopa.gov to initiate the interactive process.
Apply Now!