Assistant Federal Public Defender Oregon Federal Public Defender Portland, OR Job Details $88,848
- $197,100 a year 15 hours ago Benefits Commuter assistance Paid holidays Health insurance On-site gym Dental insurance 401(k) Flexible spending account Vision insurance 401(k) matching Life insurance Qualifications Legal advocacy Legal writing Writing skills Criminal defense law Criminal case experience Community relationship building Working with individuals from underserved communities Bar Full Job Description Job Details for Assistant Federal Public Defender Court Name/Organization Oregon Federal Public Defender Overview of the Position Assistant Federal Public Defenders fight systemic injustice by advocating for qualified defendants in federal criminal cases and other covered matters for individuals who are financially unable to obtain adequate representation.
Conversational Spanish-language skills are preferred for this opening. In addition, familiarity and understanding of the culture, slang and colloquialisms of Mexican, Central American, Caribbean or non-Southern Cone South American Spanish-speaking cultures are preferred. Location Portland, OR Opening and Closing Dates 06/29/2026
- 08/21/2026 Appointment Type Permanent Classification Level/Grade AD 21
- AD 29 Salary $88,848
- $197,100 Announcement Number 2026-04
Position Description Primary Job Duties:
Represent qualifying individuals charged with violating federal criminal statutes by handling all stages of federal criminal trial matters in the district court Frequently appear in court before both magistrate judges and district court judges.
Court appearances include:
initial appearances, pretrial release hearings, motion hearings, trials, sentencings, appeals, and probation violation proceedings. Advocate for clients from diverse backgrounds, including those with histories of trauma, mental health, and substance abuse issues Work in teams with co-counsel, investigators, paralegals, legal assistants, social workers, and contracted experts Support clients through holistic problem-solving and community engagement during pretrial, trial, and sentencing proceedings, as well as with reentry Write persuasive briefs to achieve client goals and work for improvement in the law Maintain frequent client contact in person, by phone, and in writing Qualifications Applicants must have the knowledge, skills, and ability needed to immediately defend indigent individuals in criminal cases in the U.S. District Court for the District of Oregon Applicants must be a graduate of an accredited law school and an active member in good standing of the bar in any state, territory, or possession Applicants must have at least three years of state or federal criminal practice; have recent, substantial criminal felony trial-level experience; strong written and oral advocacy skills; and a proven commitment to indigent criminal defense Strong technological, organizational, and interpersonal skills are required A demonstrated commitment to and comfort working with diverse communities and with clients from a range of backgrounds is required Conversational Spanish-language skills preferred Familiarity and understanding of the culture, slang and colloquialisms of Mexican, Central American, Caribbean or non-Southern Cone South American Spanish-speaking culture is preferred
Selection Criteria :
Application materials, interviews, and reference check information must demonstrate that the candidate possesses the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the duties of the position. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a commitment to this office's mission of zealously protecting our clients' interests. Employee Benefits 13 days of vacation for the first three years, which increases with tenure 13 days of sick leave and 11 paid holidays Flexible telework up to two days a week Choice of employer-subsidized federal health and life insurance plans, with optional dental, vision, and long-term care coverage Flexible spending account program Federal Employees Retirement System and employer-matching Thrift Savings Plan (similar to a 401K) On-site fitness center Parking or Public transportation subsidy (budget dependent)
Miscellaneous Office Overview :
The Federal Public Defender for the District of Oregon consists of a three office, the main office in Portland and branch offices in Eugene and Medford. Our clients come from all across Oregon. The FPD has a staff of 75, including 25 attorneys, 15 investigators along with paralegals and other support staff.
Regional Overview :
Portland is uniquely situated with easy access to the beautiful Pacific Ocean, Cascade Mountains, wine country in the Willamette Valley and high-plateau desert. Portland's vibrant Hispanic and Latine culture has deep historical roots, evolving from early explorers and vaqueros into a thriving, diverse community. Today, the city honors this heritage through vital cultural hubs like the Portland Mercado and the historic Milagro Theatre. Multiple Portland restaurants, farmers markets, and food carts are nationally recognized for excellence, creativity, quality, and authenticity.
Background Investigation :
This is a sensitive position within the Federal Judiciary. Employment will be considered provisional pending successful completion of an FBI Fingerprint check, favorable reference checks, social media inquiry, and a favorable suitability determination.
Applicant Information :
Employees must adhere to a Code of Conduct. The Court provides reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. Veterans' preference is not a factor used in Judicial Branch appointments. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents seeking U.S. citizenship. Positions with the Federal Public Defender are excepted service appointments, which are "at will" and may be terminated with or without cause. Employees are required to use direct deposit. The number of positions filled from this advertisement and timing of start date is subject to funding. See FAQ at Application Info Please submit a cover letter, resume, a relevant writing sample, and contact information for three (3) professional references as a single PDF attachment by email to: subject line "AFPD". W hen saving your documents as one PDF, it is important to name the file using only your last name and "_AFPD" . Only candidates selected for an interview will be notified.
Application Deadlines :
Open until filled. Applications will be reviewed as they are received. Priority will be given to applications received prior to July 20, 2026. More than one position may be filled from this advertisement, including career and limited duration appointments. All responses will remain confidential. The federal Judiciary is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.
