0000003274.PUBLIC DEFENDER INVESTIGATOR III.PUBLIC DEFENDER

Job Description Plans, organizes and directs investigations for the Capital Murder Division of the Public Defender’s Office; serves as the primary unit investigator for capital crimes; also establishes, implements and maintains policies and standards; and coordinates and advises other investigators in case investigations.

Management Scope: May supervise staff investigators.

Responsibilities

• Conducts investigations of the most complex criminal cases which involves handling of evidence, locating witness and conducting interviews, taking witness statements, notifying witness(es) of hearing and trial dates, and issuing subpoenas.
• Collaborates with other law enforcement agencies in the investigation process; coordinates special requests within the County and with other federal, state, and local agencies.
• Prepares and submits reports regarding the status of investigations.
• Assists in setting operational priorities and make recommendations regarding changes in roles and in the organizational structure including determining changes in staffing patterns, methods, procedures and other resources.
• Develops and implements, evaluates, and updates standard operating procedures to ensure adherence to all federal, state, and local laws, guidelines, and regulations.
• May supervise, counsel, evaluate, discipline, train, and monitor the performance of investigative staff.
• Performs other duties as assigned

Qualifications Education, Experience and Training:

Education and experience equivalent to Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in criminology, criminal justice, social or behavioral science, or a job related field of study. Four (4) years criminal or legal investigative experience, including two (2) years supervisory experience. May require TCLEOSE certification as a Basic Peace Officer. Special Requirements/Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Skilled in the use of standard software applications. Ability to effectively communicate both verbally and in writing, and establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, departments and the general public. Knowledge of investigator/investigative techniques, penal codes, welfare and institutional codes, and court procedures. Knowledge of methods and techniques of screening, evaluating and preparing evidence and exhibits for trial. Skill in interviewing. Valid Texas Driver’s License with good driving record.

Physical/Environmental Requirements Standard office environment 50% of the time with the remainder of time spent in a typical law enforcement street environment.