Investigator – Defense

Maricopa County

. Review and evaluate evidence, crime scenes, and case-related documents .

Posted 10/12/2026full-timePhoenix • Arizona • United StatesMid-LevelSenior💰 $29 - $48 per hourWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

Use this summary to align your resume positioning with the role.

Demonstrates expertise in criminal defense investigations, including evidence evaluation, witness interviews, and courtroom preparation. Proficient in forensic sciences and capable of collaborating effectively with legal professionals and law enforcement agencies.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Criminal Defense Investigative ExperienceHomicide Investigation ExperienceForensic/Digital Sciences TrainingValid Arizona Driver's LicenseThree Years of Investigative Experience

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Evidence EvaluationField InvestigationsWitness InterviewingCourtroom PreparationInvestigative SummariesCase Theory DevelopmentPhotographyVideotapingDiagram PreparationSubpoena Service

Soft Skills

Ability to Meet DeadlinesInterpersonal CommunicationCollaboration with Legal ProfessionalsPublic InteractionAdaptability to High Work Volumes

Tools & Technologies

CamerasVideo Recording DevicesComputersMotor VehiclesCrime Scene Diagrams

Industry Keywords

Criminal JusticeIndigent DefenseLaw EnforcementMilitary Investigative ExperienceBackground Investigation

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Review and evaluate evidence, crime scenes, and case-related documents
Prepare investigative summaries, presentations, and/or diagrams
Assist in developing defense strategies and case theories
Testify in court and conduct jail visits
Locate and interview potential witnesses in defense of criminal cases
Conduct field investigations, including 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 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
Work with attorneys, paralegals, and other investigators
Travel in and out of state as required
View traumatic subject matter including crime scenes and accidents

Requirements

What you’ll need

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
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
Must submit an online application
Must pass a pre-employment background and/or fingerprint investigation as required by statute or policy
Drug and alcohol testing required for positions designated as safety-sensitive
Ability to meet deadlines with 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

Benefits

Comp & perks

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
Overtime compensation for all hours worked over 40 in the designated workweek