A Commitment To Excellence

A Passion For Justice

Staff

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT

Position: Interpreter                                                                                 Location: San Diego, CA

Application Deadline: January 26, 2026                                                   Posted: January 8, 2026

Office Website: www.fdsdi.com                              Salary Range: 9/1 $70,507 to 14/10 $186,785

Federal Defenders of San Diego, Inc. (FDSDI) is seeking a full-time Spanish Language Interpreter to join our defense team. This key role supports attorneys and legal staff by providing interpretation and translation in legal, forensic, and client-facing contexts. The ideal candidate is experienced, discreet, and culturally aware, with strong language skills and professionalism. Duties include interpreting in meetings, court proceedings, and expert interviews, as well as translating documents and evidence. Work may occur in-office, by phone, or in detention facilities. Impartiality and confidentiality are essential. Occasional overnight travel may be required.

This is a full-time position, and the selected candidate must be available to start no later than Friday, February 27, 2026.

 

Duties and Responsibilities:

Under the supervision of the Chief Interpreter, the Interpreter will:

  • Provide accurate simultaneous and consecutive interpretation at all stages of criminal defense cases for defendants, witnesses, and attorneys in office, jail, and courtroom settings.
  • Translate written materials across a wide range of content areas, including colloquial, legal, official, scientific, and technical language.
  • Transcribe and interpret evidentiary recordings, such as law enforcement interviews and wiretaps, with precision and attention to legal accuracy.
  • Certify and, when necessary, testify to the accuracy of translations and interpretations, including those produced by third parties.
  • Maintain a high level of professional expertise while adhering to standards of impartiality and neutrality.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

 

Qualifications:

  • State and/or federally certified candidates are strongly preferred. Candidates without certification are encouraged to apply, but must successfully pass a language assessment and work toward certification while employed.
  • Full professional fluency in both English and Spanish, with the ability to interpret and translate legal, technical, and colloquial language accurately and impartially.
  • A minimum of three years of general work experience, including at least two years of specialized experience in interpretation and/or translation in legal or related settings.
  • Familiarity with confidentiality standards, including attorney-client privilege.
  • Strong analytical skills and the ability to follow both written and verbal instructions.
  • Proficiency in office software and general administrative practices.
  • A high school diploma or equivalent is required.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Federal certification is strongly preferred.
  • In-depth knowledge of legal terminology, court procedures, and criminal defense practices.
  • Experience transcribing, translating, and interpreting evidentiary materials, including wiretaps and law enforcement interviews.
  • Demonstrated ability to recognize and evaluate linguistic nuances and dialects in translation.
  • Familiarity with policies, procedures, and casework within a federal criminal defense environment.

 

Salary and Benefits:

Salary will be commensurate with experience. The starting salary range is: JSP 9/1 ($70,507) to JSP 14/10 ($186,785). The position does include employee benefits including health and life insurance as well as a 401k plan. Salary is payable only by Electronic Funds Transfer (direct deposit).  This position is at will and is subject to the availability of funds. Employment is subject to a satisfactory background investigation. Full-time telework is not available.

Accessibility:

We are committed to an inclusive and accessible application process. If you need an accommodation due to a disability during any stage of the application or interview process, please contact our Personnel Administrator at Kym_Bryant@fd.org. If hired, we are dedicated to providing reasonable accommodations to support your success and ensure equal access to opportunities in the workplace.

 

Commitment to Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion:

Our office values diversity, is committed to equity and inclusion, and aspires to create a culture of mutual respect, collaboration, openness, and humility that honors the people we represent. We believe representation is better when members of the defense team have diverse backgrounds and experiences. In our hiring, we seek individuals who share this belief and commitment. We embrace the unique contributions our employees can bring to the office because of their backgrounds, social identities, and lived experiences.

How to Apply:

Interested applicants are invited to apply by submitting a single pdf document that includes a cover letter, resume, and three references via email to the attention of:

Ana Martinez, Chief Interpreter

InterpreterHiring@fdsdi.com

Subject: Interpreter Position – San Diego

Hiring Timeline:

We value transparency in our hiring process and want applicants to know what to expect. Below are the key dates:

  • Application Deadline: January 26, 2026
  • Interviews: Week of January 26, 2026
  • Anticipated Start Date: No later than February 27, 2026

POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT

Position: Assistant Paralegal                                                                    Location: San Diego, CA

Application Deadline: February 27, 2026                                               Posted: February 3, 2026

Office Website: www.fdsdi.com                               Salary Range: 9/1 $70,507 to 9/10 $91,664

 

Federal Defenders of San Diego, Inc. (FDSDI) is seeking qualified candidates for one or more full-time Assistant Paralegal positions. FDSDI is the Community Defender Organization for the Southern District of California, serving San Diego and Imperial Counties. We operate under the authority of 18 U.S.C. § 3006A(g)(2)(B) to provide federal criminal defense services by court appointment to individuals who are unable to afford counsel.

 

In this role, Assistant Paralegals provide essential litigation and case support to multiple staff attorneys, assisting with case preparation, document management, legal research support, and coordination of court-related activities. The ideal candidate is highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage competing priorities while working collaboratively in a fast-paced legal environment. Professionalism, discretion, and attention to detail are critical to success in this role.

 

This full-time position is scheduled Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

 

Duties and Responsibilities:

Under the supervision of the Chief Paralegal, the Assistant Paralegal will:

  • Assist with case preparation and provide ongoing support throughout all stages of litigation.
  • Maintain and organize case files to ensure accuracy, completeness, and accessibility.
  • Organize and index discovery materials, evidence, and exhibits in preparation for hearings and trial.
  • Provide research support and assist with background investigations under general direction.
  • Notify staff attorneys, clients, and other relevant parties of court dates, deadlines, and scheduled appointments.
  • Assist in the preparation of pleadings, motions, and briefs with a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.
  • Serve as a point of contact for clients, including receiving, screening, and directing phone calls appropriately.
  • Support litigation activities through the use of advanced software and case management tools.
  • Locate, retrieve, and manage documents, records, and information using computer-assisted legal research tools.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

 

 

Qualifications:

  • A high school diploma or equivalent is required.
  • A minimum of three years of general work experience, including at least two years of specialized experience, is required. Education above the high school level in an accredited institution may substitute for general experience.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and Adobe Acrobat, with strong general computer literacy.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to multitask, manage time effectively, and prioritize competing responsibilities.

 

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience in appellate and criminal law.
  • Proficiency with e-filing procedures in the federal court system and the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals.
  • Familiarity with LexisNexis or similar legal research platforms.
  • Bilingual fluency in English and Spanish.
  • A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.

 

Salary and Benefits:

Salary will be commensurate with experience. The starting salary range is: JSP 9/1 ($70,507) to JSP 9/10 ($91,664). The position does include employee benefits including health and life insurance as well as a 401k plan. Salary is payable only by Electronic Funds Transfer (direct deposit).  This position is at will and is subject to the availability of funds. Employment is subject to a satisfactory background investigation. This position offers one day of telework per pay period. Full-time telework is not available.

 

Accessibility:

We are committed to an inclusive and accessible application process. If you need an accommodation due to a disability during any stage of the application or interview process, please contact our Personnel Administrator at Kym_Bryant@fd.org. If hired, we are dedicated to providing reasonable accommodations to support your success and ensure equal access to opportunities in the workplace.

 

 

 

 

Commitment to Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion:

Our office values diversity, is committed to equity and inclusion, and aspires to create a culture of mutual respect, collaboration, openness, and humility that honors the people we represent. We believe representation is better when members of the defense team have diverse backgrounds and experiences. In our hiring, we seek individuals who share this belief and commitment. We embrace the unique contributions our employees can bring to the office because of their backgrounds, social identities, and lived experiences.

 

How to Apply:

Interested applicants are invited to apply by submitting a single pdf document that includes a cover letter, resume, and three references via email to the attention of:

 

Sandra Riley, Chief Paralegal

hiring@fdsdi.com

Subject: Assistant Paralegal Position – San Diego

 

Hiring Timeline:

We value transparency in our hiring process and want applicants to know what to expect. Below are the key dates:

  • Application Deadline: February 27, 2026 (priority consideration given to applications received by this date; applications will remain open until filled)
  • Interviews: Conducted on a rolling basis
  • Anticipated Start Date: On or around March 31, 2026 (tentative)

POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT

Position: Investigator                                                                               Location: San Diego, CA

Application Deadline: February 27, 2026                                              Posted: February 3, 2026

Office Website: www.fdsdi.com                          Salary Range: 11/1 $85,307 to 14/10 $186,785

Federal Defenders of San Diego, Inc. (FDSDI) is seeking qualified candidates for one or more full-time Investigator positions to join our defense team. FDSDI is the Community Defender Organization for the Southern District of California, serving San Diego and Imperial Counties, and operates under the authority of 18 U.S.C. § 3006A(g)(2)(B) to provide federal criminal defense services by court appointment to individuals who are unable to afford counsel.

Investigators play a critical role in supporting attorneys by conducting thorough investigations in federal criminal cases, including immigration-related offenses, drug offenses, fraud, bank robbery, forgery, and internet-related crimes. This position requires initiative, sound judgment, discretion, and the ability to analyze complex information while working collaboratively in a fast-paced legal environment.

Investigators regularly engage with clients, witnesses, experts, law enforcement, and court personnel, and are responsible for developing factual records that support effective defense representation. This role requires domestic and international travel, including occasional overnight travel, and may include court testimony as part of investigative duties.

 

Duties and Responsibilities:

Under the supervision of the Chief Investigator, the Investigator will:

  • Serve as a critical member of the defense team by conducting thorough and independent investigations in support of federal criminal defense cases.
  • Review, analyze, and evaluate discovery materials, facts, and evidence to identify relevant information and investigative leads.
  • Locate, interview, and gather information from witnesses, alleged victims, experts, and law enforcement personnel.
  • Locate, obtain, and analyze records and documentary evidence from governmental and private sources.
  • Prepare clear, detailed, and comprehensive written reports, including documentation of witness interviews, investigative findings, and case analysis.
  • Locate, retrieve, and maintain tangible evidence and personal property in accordance with established procedures.
  • Prepare and serve subpoenas and assist with evidence and records collection.
  • Visit and process crime scenes as needed, including photographing and documenting physical evidence.
  • Establish and maintain effective working relationships with attorneys, courts, law enforcement agencies, and other governmental and private organizations.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

 

Qualifications:

  • A high school diploma or equivalent is required.
  • A minimum of three years of investigative or comparable specialized experience and three years of general work experience. Education above the high school level in an accredited institution may substitute for general experience.
  • Strong organizational skills and broad familiarity with computer programs and investigative technology.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to clearly and effectively convey information.
  • Ability to speak, read, and write Spanish fluently.
  • Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends as required.
  • Valid California driver’s license and access to an insured vehicle.
  • Successful completion of a background investigation.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
  • Experience conducting investigative interviews with witnesses, alleged victims, experts, or law enforcement personnel.
  • Experience locating and gathering records, documents, and other investigative materials.
  • Experience preparing clear, comprehensive written reports and investigative work product.
  • Demonstrated ability to establish rapport and maintain effective working relationships with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

 

Salary and Benefits:

Salary will be commensurate with experience. The starting salary range is: JSP 11/1 ($85,307) to JSP 14/10 ($186,785). The position does include employee benefits including health and life insurance as well as a 401k plan. Salary is payable only by Electronic Funds Transfer (direct deposit).  This position is at will and is subject to the availability of funds. Employment is subject to a satisfactory background investigation. This position offers one day of telework per pay period. Full-time telework is not available.

Accessibility:

We are committed to an inclusive and accessible application process. If you need an accommodation due to a disability during any stage of the application or interview process, please contact our Personnel Administrator at Kym_Bryant@fd.org. If hired, we are dedicated to providing reasonable accommodations to support your success and ensure equal access to opportunities in the workplace.

Commitment to Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion:

Our office values diversity, is committed to equity and inclusion, and aspires to create a culture of mutual respect, collaboration, openness, and humility that honors the people we represent. We believe representation is better when members of the defense team have diverse backgrounds and experiences. In our hiring, we seek individuals who share this belief and commitment. We embrace the unique contributions our employees can bring to the office because of their backgrounds, social identities, and lived experiences.

How to Apply:

Interested applicants are invited to apply by submitting a single pdf document that includes a cover letter, resume, and three references via email to the attention of:

Sherry O’Sullivan, Chief Investigator

hiring@fdsdi.com

Subject: Investigator Position – San Diego

 

 

Hiring Timeline:

We value transparency in our hiring process and want applicants to know what to expect. Below are the key dates:

  • Application Deadline: February 27, 2026 (priority consideration given to applications received by this date; applications will remain open until filled)
  • Interviews: Conducted on a rolling basis
  • Anticipated Start Date: On or around March 31, 2026 (tentative)

POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT

Position: Assistant Investigator                                                               Location: San Diego, CA

Application Deadline: February 27, 2026                                              Posted: February 3, 2026

Office Website: www.fdsdi.com                               Salary Range: 5/1 $46,533 to 9/10 $91,664

 

Federal Defenders of San Diego, Inc. (FDSDI) is seeking a full-time Assistant Investigator to join our defense team. FDSDI is the Community Defender Organization for the Southern District of California, serving San Diego and Imperial Counties. We operate under the authority of 18 U.S.C. § 3006A(g)(2)(B) to provide federal criminal defense services by court appointment to individuals who are unable to afford counsel.

 

In this role, Assistant Investigators provide essential investigative and case support to staff attorneys and investigators, with primary responsibilities related to bond preparation, records retrieval, and coordination with internal staff, clients, and external agencies. The ideal candidate is organized, detail-oriented, and able to handle sensitive information with discretion while working collaboratively in a fast-paced legal environment. Strong communication skills and professionalism are critical to success in this role.

 

This full-time position is scheduled Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

 

Duties and Responsibilities:

Under the supervision of the Chief Investigator, the Assistant Investigator will:

  • Provide investigative and case support services to staff attorneys and investigators.
  • Assist with bond preparation, including meeting with clients and potential sureties in office and detention facility settings.
  • Collect, copy, and maintain documentation required for bond packages and surety identification.
  • Coordinate with attorneys, investigators, clients, and sureties regarding the status of bond packages.
  • Submit completed bond packages to the United States Attorney’s Office, courthouse, and Clerk’s Office, as required.
  • Conduct records retrieval by performing online searches and preparing records requests to courts and other institutions nationwide.
  • Assist investigators with the review of case-related discovery, including communications, recordings, and other investigative materials.
  • Track investigative and bond-related activities using established tracking tools or logs.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

 

 

Qualifications:

  • A high school diploma or equivalent is required.
  • General knowledge of office practices and administrative procedures.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills in English and Spanish.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, Outlook, and Adobe Acrobat.
  • Strong telephone and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact professionally with clients, staff, and external contacts.
  • Demonstrated ability to complete tasks accurately and on time with minimal supervision.
  • Ability to multitask, prioritize responsibilities, and work effectively in a fast-paced environment.
  • Dependable, punctual, and able to maintain a consistent and reliable attendance record.

 

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience in a legal or investigative setting, preferably in criminal defense.
  • Familiarity with bond preparation and records retrieval processes.
  • Experience reviewing case-related discovery or investigative materials.
  • A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. Education above the high school level in an accredited institution may substitute for general experience.

 

Salary and Benefits:

Salary will be commensurate with experience. The starting salary range is: JSP 5/1 ($46,533) to JSP 9/10 ($91,664). The position does include employee benefits including health and life insurance as well as a 401k plan. Salary is payable only by Electronic Funds Transfer (direct deposit).  This position is at will and is subject to the availability of funds. Employment is subject to a satisfactory background investigation. This position offers one day of telework per pay period. Full-time telework is not available.

 

Accessibility:

We are committed to an inclusive and accessible application process. If you need an accommodation due to a disability during any stage of the application or interview process, please contact our Personnel Administrator at Kym_Bryant@fd.org. If hired, we are dedicated to providing reasonable accommodations to support your success and ensure equal access to opportunities in the workplace.

 

 

Commitment to Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion:

Our office values diversity, is committed to equity and inclusion, and aspires to create a culture of mutual respect, collaboration, openness, and humility that honors the people we represent. We believe representation is better when members of the defense team have diverse backgrounds and experiences. In our hiring, we seek individuals who share this belief and commitment. We embrace the unique contributions our employees can bring to the office because of their backgrounds, social identities, and lived experiences.

 

How to Apply:

Interested applicants are invited to apply by submitting a single pdf document that includes a cover letter, resume, and three references via email to the attention of:

 

Sherry O’Sullivan, Chief Investigator

hiring@fdsdi.com

Subject: Assistant Investigator Position – San Diego

 

 

Hiring Timeline:

We value transparency in our hiring process and want applicants to know what to expect. Below are the key dates:

  • Application Deadline: February 27, 2026 (priority consideration given to applications received by this date; applications will remain open until filled)
  • Interviews: Conducted on a rolling basis
  • Anticipated Start Date: On or around March 31, 2026 (tentative)

WE ARE AN

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Contact Us Today

SAN DIEGO OFFICE
  • TEL: 619-234-8467
  • Toll Free: 888-614-9867
  • FAX: 619-687-2666
  • 225 Broadway Ste 900 San Diego, CA 92101

EL CENTRO OFFICE

  • TEL: 760-335-3510
  • Toll Free: 877-404-9063
  • FAX: 760-335-3610
  • 1699 Main St Suite D, El Centro, CA 92243

FDSDI

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