Posting Date
03/26/24Application Deadline
Open Until FilledPay Range
$27.00 - $41.40 hourlyJob Type
UnclassifiedDepartment
Public DefenderAbout the Position
An accident reconstructionist defense investigator is a specialized professional responsible for determining the causes, sequence of events, and contributing factors to various types of vehicle accidents. They review and assemble evidence and provide recommendations for further development or investigative steps as warranted. They work with assigned defense teams to determine the best defense strategies and case theories for clients and their cases.
About the Office of the Public Defender
Join one of the largest PD offices in the country. We provide innovative, client-centered legal representation in the full range of criminal matters to clients unable to afford representation. Our attorneys and staff are dedicated to treating our clients with respect and dignity as we defend their constitutional rights in a court of law. This is a fast-paced department with an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of the people we serve.
Proud to Offer
Perform work with a greater purpose
Tuition Reimbursement
Growth and stability since 1871
Opportunities for growth and development within Maricopa County
Exceptional work-life balance
Low-cost, high-value healthcare for you and your qualifying dependents
Enrollment in Arizona State Retirement System
Paid vacation, sick, and parental (birth/adoption) leaves
Maricopa County participates in the Arizona State Retirement System. This defined retirement benefit requires a 12.29% monthly contribution rate and includes a 100% employer match on Day 1
Extensive wellness program with $60 monthly medical premium discounts
Employee discounts for goods and services
Learn more at
We Require
3 years of investigative experience with law enforcement, government, or military agency
High School Diploma or GED
Demonstrated experience and extensive training as an Advanced Accident Investigator/Reconstructionist
Documented recognition as a court expert in accident investigation/reconstruction
Applicants must include in their application a list of all investigative experience and assignments as well as a list of all accident investigation, reconstruction, and DUI training courses
Other Requirements
3 years of advanced accident/reconstruction trained, HGN/SFST trained, and DRE trained
Valid Arizona Driver's License upon hire, have and maintain an acceptable driving record, and be physically capable of operating a vehicle safely
We Also Value
Knowledge of law enforcement investigative techniques and government relations as they relate to indigent defense administration
Ability to plan, organize, and effectively present ideas and concepts to others
Ability to assimilate information from a variety of sources, analyze information, and make or recommend courses of investigation
Demonstrated knowledge and experience in the criminal justice system
Ability to interact tactfully with clients, their families, attorneys, and other professionals
Bilingual (English/Spanish) skills and those with criminal defense investigative experience
Job Contributions
Proactively assist in reviewing vehicle accident, fatality, and DUI cases
Provide expertise in the development of defense strategies and case theories
Testify in court and conduct jail visits
Review case documents and recommend securing additional background information that may be needed for the case (may need to obtain family histories, alibis, and various in-state/out-of-state public, private, and government records)
Conduct conflict checks
Locate and interview potential witnesses in defense of criminal cases which may require in-state and/or out-of-state travel
Update attorneys regularly on progress of investigations and recommendations for further initiatives or preparation of the case
Conduct field investigations including but not limited to:
Vehicle Inspections
Taking photos
Videotaping
Obtaining witness statements, and
Preparing courtroom and crime scene diagrams
Conduct computer inquiries and extensive record searches. Maintain records and documentation.
Obtain and evaluate physical and documentary evidence
Prepare oral and written investigative reports.
Maintain case files and activity logs.
Interact closely and provide guidance to attorneys by meeting with them to discuss cases and develop further investigative steps as warranted.
Work with attorneys to investigate cases and develop detailed evidence as appropriate
Interface with criminal authorities, investigators from other law enforcement agencies, and contacts at other related agencies
Responsible for the use and maintenance of computers and various types of crash software and programs, cameras, video and recording devices, motor vehicles, and other related equipment
May be required to serve subpoenas and provide witness transportation
Based on Office business needs, may be assigned as an investigator to any of the Office's units/groups, including but not limited to:
Capital Homicide
Trial
Early Representation
Juvenile in Adult Court, and/or
Vehicular
Working Conditions
Work in dangerous environments such as local roads, highways/freeways, intersections, and around unsafe vehicles
High volume of work with an emphasis on accuracy
Viewing and reviewing traumatic subject matter (crime scenes, accidents, etc.)
Assigned multiple cases and tasks with frequent changes and interruptions
Work alone at times and in close proximity to other investigators and defense teams
Contact with the public, crime scenes, and criminal defendants are frequent occurrences
May be required to lift 20 pounds floor to waist; 25 pounds waist to shoulder; 10 pounds shoulder to overhead; carry 25 pounds a distance of 1000 feet; and push/pull 50 pounds a distance of 1000 feet
Travel to and from court locations, government facilities, and other job-related locations as necessary, which may include periodic travel outside of Maricopa County, subject to County policies regarding vehicle use
Selection Procedure
Only the most qualified candidates will be considered
Consideration will only be given to candidates who submit online applications
Candidates will be contacted primarily through email and their Workday online application profile
Must pass a pre-employment background and/or fingerprint investigation as required by statute or policy, including drug and alcohol testing requirements for positions designated as safety-sensitive
Maricopa County is an equal opportunity employer.
Apply Now!