Initial Posting Date:
03/16/2026Application Deadline:
03/26/2026Agency:
Oregon Public Defense CommissionSalary Range:
$5,893 - $8,703Position Type:
EmployeePosition Title:
Investigator (PA2)Job Description:
The Oregon Public Defense Commission (OPDC) is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Investigator to support the defense team through thorough and timely investigation of case-related facts. In this role, you will locate and interview witnesses, alleged victims, and clients; gather and review records and other information; and document investigative findings in clear, organized reports for attorneys. The Investigator serves subpoenas and other process, corroborates information through scene visits, and may assist with coordinating witness appearances and supporting the involvement of scientific and other experts. This position requires strong communication and collaboration with attorneys and team members, careful documentation of investigative work, and participation in case discussions and ongoing professional development. If you are proactive, analytical, and committed to supporting justice through diligent investigative work, we encourage you to apply!
Position: Investigator (Program Analyst 2)
This recruitment will be used to establish a list of qualified applicants to fill the current vacancy and may be used to fill future vacancies as they occur.
This is a hybrid position
Location: Portland, Oregon
Salary Range: $5,893 - $8,703
What’s in it for you
You will be a part of an innovative and strategic group of professionals and enjoy a competitive salary and benefits package!
OPDC supports and encourages work/life balance and overall wellness and offers a generous benefits package including, employer-paid health insurance, vacation, and sick leave, eleven paid holidays, three paid personal days, flexible spending accounts, and an employer contribution retirement plan (PERS). The posted salary range is the total possible range for the classification. If you are already a participating PERS member or once you become PERS eligible, the salary range will increase by 6%.
Advancement and learning opportunities that will help you grow your career.
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Minimum Qualifications
A Bachelor's Degree in Business or Public Administration, Behavioral or Social Sciences, or a degree related to the agency program that demonstrates the capacity for the knowledge and skills; and two years’ experience coordinating or administering a program
OR
Any combination of experience or education equivalent to five years of experience that typically supports the knowledge and skill requirements listed for the classification.
What you will do
This position works under the direction of an attorney to investigate matters consistent with the legal theory of a case by gathering, analyzing, and documenting relevant evidentiary facts. The Investigator locates, identifies, and corroborates information through interviews, records review, and other investigative methods to support the defense team’s understanding of the case. The position documents investigative findings and provides factual information to attorneys while not providing legal advice.
Application Guidance & Requirements:
REQUIRED: Attach your most up-to-date resume. Please ensure your Workday profile aligns with your submission.
REQUIRED: Attach a cover letter that details how you meet the desired attributes for this position. You cover letter should be no more than 2 pages. (A cover letter that does not meet the required criteria will be graded as ineligible.)
**APPLICATIONS THAT DO NOT PROVIDE THE ABOVE DOCUMENTS WILL NOT MOVE FORWARD IN THE RECRUITMENT**
Duties
Investigation and Fact Development
Conduct investigations to identify, locate, and interview witnesses, victims, and other individuals with knowledge relevant to the case. Gather and analyze information through interviews, records review, site visits, and other investigative methods to develop and corroborate factual information. Document investigative activities and findings to support attorney case preparation.
Evidence and Records Collection
Locate and obtain records and other materials relevant to the case, including public records, agency reports, and other documentary evidence. Review and organize information to identify relevant facts and potential investigative leads. Maintain accurate records of investigative materials and ensure information is preserved for use by the defense team.
Case Coordination and Litigation Support
Work closely with attorneys and other members of the defense team to plan investigative strategies and respond to emerging case needs. Assist with locating witnesses, coordinating witness appearances, and supporting the engagement of experts or other resources. Participate in case discussions and provide factual updates that inform case preparation.
Documentation and Professional Practice
Prepare clear and accurate investigative reports and maintain organized case files documenting investigative work performed. Ensure investigative activities comply with applicable laws, professional standards, and office policies. Participate in training and professional development to maintain and improve investigative skills.
The Top 9 Desired Attributes for this Role
1. Integrity and Professionalism: Demonstrates honesty, ethical conduct, and discretion when handling sensitive information, interacting with witnesses, and participating in court proceedings.
2. Investigative and Interviewing Skills: Ability to locate, interview, and obtain reliable information from witnesses, alleged victims, and clients while building rapport and maintaining professionalism.
3. Critical Thinking and Analytical Ability: Evaluates information, identifies inconsistencies, and analyzes records and statements to develop and corroborate factual information.
4. Attention to Detail and Accurate Documentation: Prepares clear investigative reports, maintains detailed notes, and ensures accuracy in records and case documentation.
5. Initiative and Persistence: Proactively pursues investigative leads, locates individuals, and follows through on complex or difficult investigative tasks.
6. Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Communicates clearly with attorneys, team members, and external contacts while building productive working relationships.
7. Research and Information-Gathering Skills: Locates and reviews records and other sources of information, including court, law enforcement, and public records.
8. Organization and Time Management: Manages multiple investigative tasks and priorities while meeting deadlines.
9. Collaboration and Teamwork: Works effectively with attorneys, staff, and external partners to support thorough case preparation and defense advocacy.
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Who we are.
The Oregon Public Defense Commission (OPDC) is an agency governed by a 13-member commission appointed by the Governor, which serves as the governing body for Oregon’s public defense system. The Commission provides policy direction and oversight for the administration of the system. Through this work, OPDC safeguards the constitutional right to counsel and upholds a critical element of Oregon’s justice and public safety systems.
The mission of OPDC is to continually enhance the statewide public defense system to deliver highly skilled, independent, timely, and client-focused representation to eligible persons.
The Trial Division is composed of public defenders who provide court-appointed legal representation and advocacy at the trial level to indigent clients who are charged with criminal offenses in the circuit courts in the State of Oregon. Trial Division staff represent clients from arraignment through sentencing, with occasional preindictment representations. Case types include murder prosecutions, serious sexual offenses, lesser and major felonies, misdemeanors, contempt filings, occasionally initial commitment proceedings, and hearings related to those matters (e.g., DMV hearings, Protective Order hearings, etc.).
The Northwest Regional Trial Division, a subdivision of the Trial Division based in Portland and Oregon City, accepts appointments in Multnomah, Washington, and Clackamas Counties, and occasionally in other counties in Oregon.
Recruitment Timeline
*These dates are approximate and may change. *
Recruitment Closes: Thursday, March 26, 2026 @ 11:59P
Recruiter Screening for Minimum Qualifications: On-going
Hiring Manager Screening for Desired Attributes: On-going
First-Round Interviews: Week of March 30, 2026
Potential Start Date for New Hire: TBD
Additional Details
The information in your application will be used to complete a pay equity assessment to determine salary placement upon hire. Please see the link here to our Pay Equity Project.
The State of Oregon does not request or require your age, date of birth, attendance or graduation dates from an educational institution during the application process.
Eligible veterans, disabled veterans, and current/former servicemembers of the Oregon National Guard who meet the qualifications are eligible for Candidate Preference. For more information, please visit Veterans Resources.
OPDC does not offer visa sponsorship. Within three days of hire, applicants will be required to complete I-9 documentation and confirm authorization to work in the United States. If your employment authorization and documentation is contingent on sponsorship now or in the future, you will not meet Agency employment eligibility standards.
The Oregon Public Defense Commission is committed to inclusive excellence by advancing equity and diversity in all that we do. We are an Affirmative Action/Equal