Job Details for Investigator/Non-Capital Mitigation Specialist
| Court Name/Organization | Oklahoma Western Federal Public Defender |
| Overview of the Position | The Federal Public Defender for the Western District of Oklahoma is accepting applications for the position of full-time investigator/non-capital mitigation specialist position in the Criminal Defense Unit stationed in Oklahoma City. The Federal Public Defender operates under authority of Title 18, U.S. Code, Section 3006A(g)(2)(A), to provide legal services by court appointment to individuals unable to afford counsel. Our Criminal Defense Unit (CDU) represents persons in federal criminal prosecutions throughout the Western District of Oklahoma. |
| Location | Oklahoma City, OK |
| Opening and Closing Dates | 01/30/2026 - Open Until Filled |
| Appointment Type | Permanent |
| Salary | Not specified |
Position Description
CDU investigators perform the critically important role of uncovering the facts necessary to win motions and trials. They analyze complex materials, strategize, develop investigation plans, obtain a variety of records, visit clients in jail, identify and interview witnesses, serve subpoenas, prepare written memoranda, track case activity, prepare or assist with sentencing mitigation videos, occasionally testify, and use electronic tools during investigations.
Qualifications
All applicants must have graduated from an accredited school with a bachelor’s degree; a degree in social work or a related field, such as anthropology, education, journalism, psychology, sociology, or criminal justice, is preferred. An advanced or graduate degree in social work is strongly preferred. Relevant experience may substitute a bachelor’s degree. A background in law or mental health is a plus. The ability to speak, read, and write in Spanish is favored. Computer literacy is required. Applicants must be proficient in conducting online and social media investigations. They must also demonstrate an ability to use open sources creatively to develop both fact and mitigation evidence. Experience connecting a client base with treatment resources or an applicant having established professional relationships with treatment or program entities is a plus.
This position requires travel through our district and occasional out-of-district travel. Minimal telework may be possible given the in-person responsibilities of the position. The investigator must be available to appear in the district court routinely and to meet with clients at county jails within a 200-mile radius. Varying hours including nights, weekends, and holidays may be required on occasion.
We are looking for a team-oriented person with a commitment to the defense of individuals facing a variety of federal crimes. The applicant should have excellent interpersonal skills, and be able to communicate effectively with clients, witnesses, staff, the court, and agency personnel. The position requires the ability to prioritize, work independently, and cooperatively. If an offer of employment is extended, the applicant must complete a background security investigation including an FBI and IRS tax check. Appointment will be subject to the applicant’s successful completion of a security investigation and a favorable report.
Employee Benefits
The starting salary will be commensurate with the experience and qualifications of the applicant within a range of $74,678 (JSP-11) to $125,776 (JSP-14) per annum. The position is in the excepted service and does not have the tenure rights of the competitive Civil Service. The position does offer federal government employment benefits, including health and life insurance programs, retirement, and the Thrift Savings Plan. Salary is payable only by Electronic Funds Transfer (direct deposit).
Miscellaneous
CDU investigators perform the critically important role of uncovering the facts necessary to win motions and trials. They analyze complex materials, strategize, develop investigation plans, obtain a variety of records, visit clients in jail, identify and interview witnesses, serve subpoenas, prepare written memoranda, track case activity, prepare or assist with sentencing mitigation videos, occasionally testify, and use electronic tools during investigations.
Application Info
Qualified persons may apply by sending via email a letter of interest, resume, three references, and writing sample in pdf format to zack_pan@fd.org. Until position(s) is/are filled and subject to funding availability at time of hire.
The federal Judiciary is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.