Job Details for Investigator
| Court Name/Organization | Tennessee Western Federal Public Defender |
| Overview of the Position | The Office of the Federal Defender for the Western District of Tennessee is accepting applications for the position of Investigator. The Federal Defender operates under authority of the Criminal Justice Act, 18 U.S.C. § 3006A, to provide defense services in federal criminal cases and related matters in the federal courts. This is an authorized backfill position from the Office of Defender Services. |
| Location | Memphis, TN |
| Opening and Closing Dates | 11/20/2025 - 12/19/2025 |
| Appointment Type | Permanent |
| Salary | Not specified |
| Announcement Number | 26-01 |
Position Description
The investigator provides support and direct involvement in case preparation, locating and interviewing witnesses, gathering relevant data and court records, writing reports, serving subpoenas, photographing crime scenes, and testifying in court as necessary. A commitment to the representation of indigent people charged with criminal offenses and a reputation for personal integrity is essential.
Qualifications
Qualified applicants must possess the following: A working understanding of criminal law, criminal procedure, and evidence; a working knowledge of the court system; tact and discretion in obtaining the cooperation and confidence of others; competency in gathering and organizing information; good judgment; honesty, integrity, and a commitment to treating all people with respect; ability to prepare concise and accurate written and oral reports of investigative findings; ability to work independently and as a team, analyze problems, and recommend practical solutions; and computer skills. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or eligible to work in the United States and have a valid driver’s license. Employment is subject to a satisfactory background check, including an FBI name and fingerprint check
Specialized Experience
Applicants must possess a minimum of three years general experience, and three years specialized experience (in substantial investigative work, preferably criminal). Education substitution for some general experience may be available for education above the high school level in accredited institutions. The position requires travel for investigation, hearings and training. Work outside of normal business hours and on weekends is required as caseload demands. Physical demands for this position include those required for the individual to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. The individual must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds, spend extended periods of time driving or riding in a car, and ascend multiple flights of stairs. Spanish language skills are valued but not required.
Employee Benefits
This is an “Excepted Appointment” full-time position with federal benefits and salary commensurate with experience and qualifications within the range of JSP Grade 11 to 14. Among the many benefits are the Federal Employees Retirement System, the Thrift Savings Plan (401k), paid annual and sick leave, 11 paid federal holidays, and health, life, dental, and vision insurance. Salary is payable only by Electronic Funds Transfer. This is an “at-will” position and is subject to the availability of funding, as well as a one-year probationary period.
Miscellaneous
The investigator provides support and direct involvement in case preparation, locating and interviewing witnesses, gathering relevant data and court records, writing reports, serving subpoenas, photographing crime scenes, and testifying in court as necessary. A commitment to the representation of indigent people charged with criminal offenses and a reputation for personal integrity is essential.
Application Info
Qualified persons should submit a letter of interest, resume, and three references to the Office of the Federal Public Defender, ATTN: Hiring Committee, 200 Jefferson Ave., Suite 200, Memphis, TN 38103 no later than Dec. 19, 2025. No phone calls please.
The federal Judiciary is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.