Defense Investigator

Responsible for the investigation of appointed Public Defender cases as assigned by the Chief Investigator or Assistant Chief Investigator. Interviews clients and family members. Locates and interviews with witnesses including representatives of business and government to gather facts relating to pending criminal proceedings. Examine and obtain business, personnel or public records, police reports and related documentation and other items of potential evidence, to establish the facts of a case, and the authenticity of documentation and other related evidence. Investigate and determine the background and character of clients, witnesses and other individuals involved in a case. Prepare correspondence and reports of investigations for use by administrative or legal authorities. Testify in court or at administrative proceedings concerning findings of investigations. Serve legal documentation and other processes. Assist legal counsel in matters related to development and presentation of a case. Perform other related duties as assigned or required.

Four (4) year College Degree, or two (2) year associate degree in law enforcement or related field, or three years investigative experience in related fields, or any combination of education, training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skill, and abilities to perform the functions of the job. Valid State of Illinois Driver’s License and minimum automobile insurance as required by law.

$40,000 (Starting Compensation) - $89,600 (Maximum Compensation) Collective Bargaining Agreement -Will County Circuit Court/Office of The Chief Judge 12th Judicial Circuit Court and AFSCME Council 31, Local #1028 AFL-CIO https://willcountyillinois.sharepoint.com/sites/WillWeb/SitePages/HR-Collective-Bargaining-Agreements.aspx Attractive benefits package offered by the County of Will, including medical, dental, vision, IMRF pension plan, life insurance and deferred compensation. https://willcounty.gov/County-offices/Administration/Human-Resources/Employee-Benefits-and-Compensations

Jim McNamara, Chief Investigator Will County Public Defender 58 E. Clinton Street, Suite 210 Joliet, Illinois 60432 jmcnamara@willcounty.gov

July 24, 2026 at 4:30PM