If you are a current State of Maine employee, please submit your application through the internal application process using the Find Jobs report in PRISM. Seasonal employees who do not have PRISM access should apply through the State’s career page and indicate on the application that they have previously worked for the State.
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Maine Commission on Public Defense Services
Opening Date: August 17, 2026
Closing Date: August 31, 2026
Grade/ Admin Unit: 22/ Professional / Technical
Job Class Code:0067
Salary:$47,174.40 - $65,832.00 / Annually
Position Number:200025241
Currently, this position is not eligible for visa sponsorship or STEM OPT extensions.
JOB DESCRIPTION:
The Field Investigator’s duties will include but are not limited to the following: Collaborate with Defenders to plan and conduct investigations related to misdemeanor and felony cases and parent defense cases. Review case information, police reports, Department of Health and Human Services reports, child interviews, photographs, supporting documents, forensic evidence and witness statements to identify needed investigation. Work independently to identify, locate, and record interviews with witnesses, complainants, defendants and others; issue subpoenas and serve legal processes; identify, document, collect, and preserve physical evidence; answer questions and explain court procedures as needed. The field investigator will be responsible for accurate report writing and other written communications, as well as visiting and documenting relevant case and crime scenes, documenting physical evidence, developing exhibits for hearings and trials, and testifying in court as a fact witness and as an expert when necessary. The field investigator will need to manage their time and case load efficiently to meet deadlines and conduct timely investigations.
KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:
- Knowledge of state and federal laws, rules, and regulations applicable to and enforced by assigned agency.
- Knowledge of interviewing and investigative techniques and practices.
- Knowledge of research methods, techniques, and practices.
- Ability to analyze facts and data, reach logical conclusions, and make sound recommendations.
- Ability to prepare comprehensive investigative reports.
- Ability to negotiate settlements and prepare agreements.
- Ability to understand, and explain laws, rules, regulations, and major court decisions.
- Ability to remain calm and maintain order in emotionally charged situations.
- Ability to work with a large caseload.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
A six (6) year combination of education and experience providing paralegal, investigative, mediation, research, and/or analytical skills.
LICENSING/REGISTRATION/CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:
Must possess and maintain a valid Maine driver’s license.
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
Pleasesubmita cover letter along with a current resumeand three (3) professional references.
In order forus to properlydetermineif you meet the minimum qualifications for any posting, you must be sure your resume includes the month and year for any relevant experience listed. Your resume should include the duties and responsibilities associated with each position. Any experience that was not full-time employment should be identified as such.
The selected candidate willbe requiredto pass the required background checks (fingerprinting may berequired) as a condition of employment.
Benefits of working for the State of Maine:
No matter where you work across Maine state government, you find employees who embody our state motto—"Dirigo" or "I lead"—as they provide essential services to Mainers every day. We believe in supporting our workforce's health and wellbeing with a valuable total compensation package, including:
Work-Life Balance– Rest is essential. Take time for yourself using13 paid holidays, 12 days of sick leave,and3+ weeks of vacation leaveannually. Vacation leave accrual increases with years of service, and overtime-exempt employees receive personal leave.
Health Insurance Coverage– The State of Maine pays85%-100%of employee-only premiums ($11,857.68-$13,950.24 annual value), depending on salary. Use this chart to find thepremium costsfor you and your family, including the percentage of dependent coverage paid by the State.
Parental leaveis one of the most important benefits for any working parent. All employees who are welcoming a child—including fathers and adoptive parents—receiveforty-two (42) consecutive calendar days of fully paid parental leave.Additional, unpaid leave may also be available, under theFamily and Medical Leave Act.
Note: Benefits may varysomewhat accordingto specific collective bargaining agreements and are prorated for anything less than full-time.
There'sa job and then there's purposeful, transformative work. Our aim is to create a workplace where you can learn, grow, and continuously refine your skills. Applicantsdemonstratejob requirements in differing ways, and we appreciate that many skills and backgrounds can make people successful in this role.
As an Equal Opportunity employer, Maine State Government embraces a culture of respect and awareness. We are committed to creating a strong sense of belonging for all team members, and our process ensures an inclusive environment to applicants of all backgrounds including diverse race, color, sex, sexual orientation or gender identity, physical or mental disability, religion, age, ancestry, national origin, familial status or genetics.
Ifyou’relooking for a great next step, and want to feel good about what you do,we’dlove to hear from you. Please note reasonable accommodations are provided to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request.
Research shows that people from historically excluded communities tend to apply to jobs only when they check every box in the posting. Ifyou’recurrently reading this and hesitating to apply for that reason, we encourage you to go for it! Let us know how your experience and passion set you apart.
If you require a paper application, please download and print oneHERE
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If you are unable to complete the online application, please contact the Human Resources representative listed on the job opening you are interested in applying for. They will work with you for an alternative method of submitting.
