Capital Habeas Assistant Investigator

The Federal Public Defender’s Office for the Central District of California is accepting applications for a full-time assistant investigator position in its Capital Habeas Unit (CHU), stationed in Los Angeles, California. The CHU advocates for the constitutional rights and inherent dignity of indigent persons sentenced to death. We provide the highest quality representation in post-conviction proceedings through diversity of experience, collaborative and thorough case development, focused litigation strategies, and skilled courtroom advocacy.

Job Duties: The CHU assistant investigator will provide a full range of investigative support services for attorneys and investigators. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to: Establishing and maintaining positive working relationships with agencies and court personnel; searching, requesting, and retrieving a variety of court records, along with medical, educational records, and vital records from numerous jurisdictions; familiarization with third party databases; digesting records to incorporate in chronologies, charts, and witness files to expand investigation; tracking records requests and updating case databases; assisting with expert vetting and witness locates; conducting OSINT investigation; assisting with evidentiary hearings; serving subpoenas; and providing any additional support to legal teams, as needed.

Requirements: All applicants must have a bachelor’s degree or at least one year of relevant investigative experience. Excellent organizational skills and a high level of computer literacy are required. This position demands considerable discretion and resourcefulness. Applicants must have the capacity to work independently, manage their workload, and set priorities to meet critical deadlines. Applicants must be willing to attend trainings to develop and strengthen their skills. Applicants must be proficient in conducting online searches and have experience using databases. The ability to speak, read, and write in Spanish is preferred, but not required. Applicants must possess a valid driver’s license and a working vehicle with appropriate insurance. Varying hours including nights, weekends, and holidays may be required. Telework is not available for this position.

A background investigation is a condition of employment. Applicants must be United States citizens or permanent residents seeking citizenship as described here: .

Selection Criteria: Successful applicants demonstrate an interest in social justice, civil rights, or indigent defense; must have excellent oral and written communication and interpersonal skills; have strong organizational and technical skills; an ability to organize work and set priorities to meet critical deadlines; capable of learning new technological tools, when needed; be able to work independently and take initiative; and work well collaboratively.

Salary/Benefits: This is a full-time, at-will position. Salary is commensurate with qualifications and experience and is subject to direct deposit. Benefits include health and life insurance, retirement, and a Thrift Savings Plan. For more information on benefits, see .

How to Apply: Apply by submitting a letter of interest, résumé, writing sample, and three references . We will accept applications until May 18, 2026, or until filled. Interviews will occur on a rolling basis, and the open position may be filled before that date. Priority will be given to early applicants. The Federal Public Defender’s Office may fill current and future positions from this vacancy announcement. Please, no phone calls.

The Federal Public Defender’s Office for the Central District of California is committed to equal opportunity in the workplace. All applicants, regardless of race, ethnicity, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, disability, or age, are encouraged to apply.