Clerical Assistant(s) – San Diego, CA 

The Federal Defenders of San Diego, Inc., (FDSDI) is accepting applications to fill more than one (1) position for full-time Clerical Assistant in our San Diego office. This is a full-time, temporary position not-to-exceed August 31, 2023. The position may be extended based on funding availability and employees will be notified of that status no later than June of 2023.

FDSDI is a nonprofit organization fully funded by the Administrative Office of the United States Courts. We are not a government agency and as such, are not government employees. FDSDI provides legal representation to indigent persons charged with federal crimes in the San Diego and Imperial Counties.

Job Description: 

The Clerical Assistant provides a variety of clerical support services to the federal defender staff. General duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Receives and routes incoming mail and deliveries; arranges for courier or express mail service; and oversees outgoing
• Files documents with the Court and makes deliveries to various court
• Data entry of administrative and case files; opening/closing of case files; prepares court calendar; and converts high-volume of records into electronic
• Organizes and maintains multiple file rooms for effective records management. Ensures that files and records are stored efficiently and
• Retrieves files as requested and maintains records and inventories on closed
• Operates the facsimile machine, copier, and other shared office equipment, and routes incoming facsimile
• Understands and exercises care regarding attorney/client privilege and
• Serves as back-up Receptionist as
• Answers and routes telephone calls, takes and delivers messages, receives visitors.
• Assists with word processing tasks and
• Performs all other support duties as assigned

Required Qualifications:

• High School graduate or equivalent
• Minimum of two (2) years of general experience performing similar duties of this position
• Excellent organization skills
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
• Multitasking and time-management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks
• Hands-on experience with office equipment (e.g., fax machines, printers, scanners)
• Ability to answer and direct a high volume of incoming calls
• Ability to alphabetize, organize, and file a high volume of records
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) fluency strongly preferred

Salary/Benefits: Salary will be commensurate with experience. Salary range: JS-5/1 starting at

$40,678 to JS-7/1 starting at $50,389. Robust benefits and retirement packages offered, including health, dental, vision, and retirement 401(k) plans.

Selected candidate will be subject to verification and employment depends on a successful background investigation. All positions are at-will and subject to the availability of funds.

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:

Kymberly Bryant, Personnel Administrator CAS_Employment@fd.org

Subject: Clerical Assistant Position – San Diego

Position open until filled. Please, no telephone inquiries.

Federal Defenders of San Diego, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Selection of position will be based solely on merit without regard to race, color, religion, religious creed (including religious dress and religious grooming), sex (including pregnancy, perceived pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), gender, gender identity (including transgender identity and transitioning), gender expression and sex stereotyping, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, physical or mental disability, legally protected medical condition or information (including genetic information), family care or medical leave status, military caregiver status, military status, veteran status, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, status as a victim of domestic violence, sexual assault or stalking, enrollment in a public assistance program, engaging in protected communications regarding employee wages, requesting a reasonable accommodation on the basis of disability or bona fide religious belief or practice, or any other basis protected by local, state, or federal laws.

Computer Systems Administrator (CSA) – San Diego, CA

The Federal Defenders of San Diego, Inc., (FDSDI) has an opening for a full-time Computer Systems Administrator (CSA) in our San Diego office. FDSDI is a nonprofit organization fully funded by the Administrative Office of the United States Courts. We are not a government agency and as such, are not government employees. FDSDI provides legal representation to indigent persons charged with federal crimes in the San Diego and Imperial Counties. The CSA will be primarily based in the San Diego office but will also provide support to the branch office location in El Centro, California.

Duties:           

The CSA works with a team of Assistant Computer Systems Administrators (ACSA) and Litigation Support Specialists. The CSA and ACSA’s administers the day-to-day IT operations and support an office of over 160 users and 2 locations.

The CSA will be responsible for providing or supervising all user support services, including but not limited to desktop/network hardware, software installation testing and training; troubleshooting, maintenance and repairs of system and equipment; inventory tracking, website maintenance/development and litigation support.  The CSA provides or supervises desktop/end user support for Windows 10 operating systems, Microsoft Office 365, VPN connectivity, antivirus/malware software, remote control support, endpoint management, create and manage the use of backup and retrieval systems and other enterprise software. Administration of the external and intranet websites. Deploying and maintaining mobile devices such as Android, iPhones and iPads.   

The CSA will be responsible for the following and must have expert knowledge of Windows Server 2016/2012, Active Directory, desktop imaging, Group Policy management, DHCP, DNS, backing up domain controllers (system state/AD information), including racking servers, managing cabling, and reviewing hardware/lights for errors.  In addition, the CSA provides or supervises network support in an enterprise TCP/IP environment including switches, Ethernet cabling, and TCP/IP diagnostics.  Must have experience with virtual machines in a MS Hyper-V clustered environment including provisioning servers, high availability, moving servers between physical hosts. Network storage including NAS operation and configuration and troubleshooting. Some overnight travel is required. Must be able to lift at least 50lbs.

Requirements and Qualifications:

An applicant must be a high school graduate or equivalent, with at least 3 years’ experience in the duties outlined or 5 – 8 years progressively more responsible experience and comprehensive knowledge of computer systems administration principles, practices, methods and techniques, skill and judgement in the analysis of systems related issues. The CSA provides or supervises high level day-to-day support to ensure the proper functioning of office IT-based systems, including but not limited to network, data processing, telecommunications, and office automation. The CSA is responsible for technical and end-user support and perform or supervises all automation support services necessary for efficiently operating office networks and computer systems. The CSA is responsible for developing and implementing all technology plans including areas security, quality control, procurement, productivity, and cost effectiveness; develops and maintains local technical and user documentation. 

Preferred Additional Qualifications:

Cisco switch administration, configuration and CLI. Synology NAS administration, configuration and installation. ManageEngine Desktop Central administration. Computer and Mobile forensics. Litigation support applications/software including but not limited to Eclipse, Defender Data, Casemap and Trial Director. VOIP phone systems. SQL and MySQL relational database administration and installation.

Salary/Benefits: This is a full-time position. Salary will be commensurate with experience. Salary range: JS-9/1 starting at $61,636 to JS-13/1 starting at $106,287. Robust benefits and retirement packages offered. Salary is payable only by Electronic Funds Transfer (direct deposit).

Selected candidate will be subject to verification and employment depends on a successful background investigation. All positions are at-will and subject to the availability of funds.

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:

Kymberly Bryant, Personnel Administrator

CAS_Employment@fd.org

Subject: Computer Systems Administrator Position – San Diego

Position open until filled. Please, no telephone inquiries.

Federal Defenders of San Diego, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Selection of position will be based solely on merit without regard to race, color, religion, religious creed (including religious dress and religious grooming), sex (including pregnancy, perceived pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), gender, gender identity (including transgender identity and transitioning), gender expression and sex stereotyping, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, physical or mental disability, legally protected medical condition or information (including genetic information), family care or medical leave status, military caregiver status, military status, veteran status, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, status as a victim of domestic violence, sexual assault or stalking, enrollment in a public assistance program, engaging in protected communications regarding employee wages, requesting a reasonable accommodation on the basis of disability or bona fide religious belief or practice, or any other basis protected by local, state, or federal laws.

Financial Administrator

The Federal Defenders of San Diego, Inc., (FDSDI) has an opening for a full-time Financial Administrator in our San Diego office. FDSDI is a nonprofit organization fully funded by the Administrative Office of the United States Courts. We are not a government agency and as such are not government employees. FDSDI provides legal representation to indigent persons charged with federal crimes in the San Diego and Imperial Counties.

Job Description: The Financial Administrator is a professional position responsible for financial administration and budget management, internal controls compliance, and assists with the general financial, procurement, and administrative management of the office. Under the direction of the Administrative Officer, the general duties and responsibilities of the Financial Administrator include, but are not limited to:

• Performs the accounting for and disbursement of appropriated funds; monitors and controls expenses incurred in the operation and maintenance of the office; assists the Administrative Officer in complying with the internal controls procedures of the office, to assure proper segregation of accounting functions and to prevent errors and fraud;
• Maintains and analyzes accounting records; provides documentation for expenditures and fund balances of the defender organization;
• Prepares and reviews vouchers for payment, ensuring accuracy and appropriateness;
• Prepares status of funds reports and monthly reconciliation reports for review and approval by the Executive Director and Administrative Officer;
• Monitors spending trends as budget allotments are received; reprograms funds between budget categories as necessary; analyzes open obligations and expenses;
• Maintains purchase orders and payment vouchers using accounting software/systems;
• Formulates budget requests; budget development, projections and maintenance;
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:  Qualified candidates must possess three (3) years of general experience and one or more of the following:  1) at least three (3) years of experience in budget and financial management using accounting systems to formulate, execute, audit and report on organizational budgets; 2) a bachelor’s degree with at least 24 credit hours completed in accounting subjects with a B+ average or better; 3) an MBA with an accounting or finance emphasis; or 4) a CPA or CMA designation. Experience in a legal environment is a plus.

The ideal candidate must demonstrate the ability to research, comprehend, and apply complex regulations or policy guidelines; keen attention to detail; experience using Microsoft Excel and commercial or web-based accounting systems (e.g. Quickbooks or Sage Business Works) to perform financial management and accounting duties; and familiarity with Microsoft Office applications and Adobe Acrobat software. The ideal candidate must possess excellent oral and written communication skills; problem-solving and analytical skills; discretion; mature judgment; and professionalism with colleagues as well as third parties.

Salary:  Salary will be commensurate with experience. Salary range: JS-11/1 starting at $74,574 to JS-12/1, starting at $89,383. Excellent benefits, paid time off, and retirement packages offered.  Selected candidate will be subject to verification and employment depends on a successful background investigation. Direct deposit of pay is mandatory. This position is at-will and subject to the availability of funds.

How to Apply:  Interested candidates are invited to apply by submitting a single pdf document that includes a cover letter, resume, three references to: Federal Defenders of San Diego, Attn: Financial Admin Position, 225 Broadway, Suite 900, San Diego, CA 92101 or email: CAS_Employment@fd.org.  Position open until filled.  Please, no telephone inquiries.

Federal Defenders of San Diego, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Selection of this position will be based solely on merit without regard to race, color, religion, religious creed (including religious dress and religious grooming), sex (including pregnancy, perceived pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), gender, gender identity (including transgender identity and transitioning), gender expression and sex stereotyping, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, physical or mental disability, legally protected medical condition or information (including genetic information), family care or medical leave status, military caregiver status, military status, veteran status, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, status as a victim of domestic violence, sexual assault or stalking, enrollment in a public assistance program, engaging in protected communications regarding employee wages, requesting a reasonable accommodation on the basis of disability or bona fide religious belief or practice, or any other basis protected by local, state, or federal laws.

FEDERAL DEFENDERS OF SAN DIEGO, INC. IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Spanish-English Interpreter – El Centro, CA

The Federal Defenders of San Diego, Inc., (FDSDI) is accepting applications for an opening for a full-time Interpreter in our El Centro office.  This is a temporary position not-to-exceed August 31, 2023.  The position may be extended based on funding availability and employees will be notified no later than June 2023 of potential for extension.  FDSDI is a nonprofit organization fully funded by the Administrative Office of the United States Courts. We are not a government agency and as such, are not government employees. FDSDI provides legal representation to indigent persons charged with federal crimes in the San Diego and Imperial Counties.

Job Description:

The Interpreter general duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Interprets in simultaneous and consecutive modes at all stages of a criminal defense case for defendants, witnesses and attorneys in office, jail and courthouse settings;
• Translates documents written in colloquial, legal, official, scientific and technical language;
• Accurately transcribes the interpretation of evidentiary recordings, including law enforcement interviews and wiretaps;
• Certifies and testifies to the accuracy of evidence translated or interpreted by other parties;
• Develops professional expertise and remains impartial and neutral in providing translation and interpretation services.

Required Qualifications:

• Bilingual (English/Spanish) fluency is required.
• High School graduate or equivalent.
• Minimum of three years of general experience and two years of specialized experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

• One year of legal experience.

Salary/Benefits: Salary will be commensurate with experience. Salary range: JS-9/1 starting at $62,926 to JS-14/1 starting at $128,230. Robust benefits and retirement packages offered.

Selected candidate will be subject to verification and employment depends on a successful background investigation. All positions are at-will and subject to the availability of funds.

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:

Kymberly Bryant, Personnel Administrator

CAS_Employment@fd.org

Subject: Spanish-English Interpreter Position – El Centro

Position open until August 12, 2022. Please, no telephone inquiries.

Federal Defenders of San Diego, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Selection of position will be based solely on merit without regard to race, color, religion, religious creed (including religious dress and religious grooming), sex (including pregnancy, perceived pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), gender, gender identity (including transgender identity and transitioning), gender expression and sex stereotyping, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, physical or mental disability, legally protected medical condition or information (including genetic information), family care or medical leave status, military caregiver status, military status, veteran status, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, status as a victim of domestic violence, sexual assault or stalking, enrollment in a public assistance program, engaging in protected communications regarding employee wages, requesting a reasonable accommodation on the basis of disability or bona fide religious belief or practice, or any other basis protected by local, state, or federal laws.

Investigator – San Diego, CA

The Federal Defenders of San Diego, Inc., (FDSDI) has an opening for a full-time Investigator in our San Diego office. FDSDI is a nonprofit organization fully funded by the Administrative Office of the United States Courts. We are not a government agency and as such, are not government employees. FDSDI provides legal representation to indigent persons charged with federal crimes in the San Diego and Imperial Counties. A large part of the case load involves immigration related offenses, drugs, fraud, bank robbery, forgery, and internet related crimes.

Job Description:

Investigators are a critical part of the FDSDI defense team.  They must demonstrate considerable resourcefulness, initiative, creativity, self-motivation, tact and discretion. General duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Review, analyze and evaluate discovery material, facts and evidence, and ascertain relevant information;
• Locate and effectively interview witnesses, alleged victims, experts and law enforcement personnel;
• Write and draft reports and other work product;
• Locate, retrieve and maintain tangible evidence and personal property;
• Prepare and serve subpoenas;
• Locate, visit and process crime scenes (to include taking photos and videos);
• Ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with individuals in governmental and private agencies, members of the Bar and the Judicial branch;
• Creating comprehensive reports of witness interviews, case analysis, investigative and mitigation findings;
• Travel to different venues (domestic, foreign, and occasional overnight travel) in furtherance of investigations;
• Testify in court as needed;
• Performs all other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree or higher or equivalent experience
• Minimum of three (3) years of investigative or comparable experience (Education may be substituted for relevant experience) and three (3) years of general experience
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) fluency
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and Adobe Acrobat
• Multitasking and time-management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks
• Excellent organization skills
• Valid Driver’s License and insured vehicle
• Ability to work flexible hours

 Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience conducting interviews, locating records and people
• Drafting comprehensive reports
• Ability to establish a rapport with a variety of people

Salary/Benefits: 

Salary will be commensurate with experience. Salary range: JS-11/1 starting at $74,574 to JS-14/1 starting at $125,600. Robust benefits and retirement packages offered.

Selected candidate will be subject to verification and employment depends on a successful background investigation. All positions are at-will and subject to the availability of funds.

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:

Kymberly Bryant, Personnel Administrator

CAS_Employment@fd.org

Subject: Investigator Position – San Diego

Position open until filled. Please, no telephone inquiries.

Federal Defenders of San Diego, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Selection of position will be based solely on merit without regard to race, color, religion, religious creed (including religious dress and religious grooming), sex (including pregnancy, perceived pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), gender, gender identity (including transgender identity and transitioning), gender expression and sex stereotyping, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, physical or mental disability, legally protected medical condition or information (including genetic information), family care or medical leave status, military caregiver status, military status, veteran status, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, status as a victim of domestic violence, sexual assault or stalking, enrollment in a public assistance program, engaging in protected communications regarding employee wages, requesting a reasonable accommodation on the basis of disability or bona fide religious belief or practice, or any other basis protected by local, state, or federal laws.

Paralegal – San Diego, CA

The Federal Defenders of San Diego, Inc., (FDSDI) has an opening for a full-time Paralegal in our San Diego office. FDSDI is a nonprofit organization fully funded by the Administrative Office of the United States Courts. We are not a government agency and as such, are not government employees. FDSDI provides legal representation to indigent persons charged with federal crimes in the San Diego and Imperial Counties.

Job Description:

Paralegals provide a full range of paralegal services and litigation support to staff attorneys. General duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• All aspects of case preparation and file management;
• Providing case support and analysis at varying stages of litigation;
• Legal research and writing including preparation of trial pleadings and sentencing mitigation materials, drafted effectively and with attention to detail;
• Reviewing and analyzing discovery and case documents;
• Gathering and maintaining records;
• Organizing and maintaining voluminous discovery and electronically stored information (ESI) using a range of formats and platforms;
• Use of litigation support technology in the organization, analysis, and preparation of cases;
• Identifying subject matter experts, assisting with hiring and working with experts, and maintaining a database of experts;
• Interviewing and maintaining regular communication with clients and assisting clients with ancillary matters;
• Preparing demonstrative evidence and exhibits for pleadings, hearings, and trials;
• Assisting attorneys at hearings, trials and sentencings using presentation software such as Trial Director and PowerPoint;
• Providing training on review strategies for organizing and managing case discovery; and
• Providing trial team training utilizing litigation support tools.

Required Qualifications:

• A Bachelor’s degree, Associate’s degree, or a Paralegal Certificate from an accredited school.
• Minimum of three (3) years of specialized paralegal experience and three (3) years of general experience.
• A working knowledge of legal terminology and court
• Multitasking and time-management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks.
• Computer proficiency, including a working knowledge of Adobe Acrobat, Microsoft Office Suite, and legal research tools such as Lexis and
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• The ability to maintain a friendly, open, demeanor during periods of increased

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with document management or litigation support databases such as Summation, Trial Director, DTSearch, or CaseMap.
• Experience with digital forensics review tools such as Cellebrite Reader, Magnet AXIOM, FTK imager, or XRY/XAMN viewer.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) fluency is a plus.

Salary/Benefits: Salary will be commensurate with experience. Salary range: JS-11/1 starting at $74,574 to JS-14/1 starting at $125,600. Robust benefits and retirement packages offered.

Selected candidate will be subject to verification and employment depends on a successful background investigation. All positions are at-will and subject to the availability of funds.

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:

Kymberly Bryant, Personnel Administrator

CAS_Employment@fd.org

Subject: Paralegal Position – San Diego

Position open until filled. Please, no telephone inquiries.

Federal Defenders of San Diego, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Selection of position will be based solely on merit without regard to race, color, religion, religious creed (including religious dress and religious grooming), sex (including pregnancy, perceived pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), gender, gender identity (including transgender identity and transitioning), gender expression and sex stereotyping, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, physical or mental disability, legally protected medical condition or information (including genetic information), family care or medical leave status, military caregiver status, military status, veteran status, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, status as a victim of domestic violence, sexual assault or stalking, enrollment in a public assistance program, engaging in protected communications regarding employee wages, requesting a reasonable accommodation on the basis of disability or bona fide religious belief or practice, or any other basis protected by local, state, or federal laws.

The Federal Defenders of San Diego, Inc., (FDSDI) has an opening for one or more full-time Bilingual Receptionist(s) in our San Diego office.  FDSDI is a nonprofit organization fully funded by the Administrative Office of the United States Courts. We are not a government agency and as such, are not government employees. FDSDI provides legal representation to indigent persons charged with federal crimes in the San Diego and Imperial Counties.

JOB DESCRIPTION: The hours for this position are 9:00 am – 6:00 pm, Monday – Friday, with one hour for lunch.  The Receptionist provides a variety of front-desk and clerical support services to the federal defender staff.  General duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Receives, screens, and refers or directs telephone calls on busy multi-line phone system
• Possesses basic knowledge of the legal process and legal terminology, and knowledge of law office best practices and procedures
• Understands and exercises care regarding attorney/client privilege and confidentiality
• Greets and directs visitors and/or answers general inquiries
• Determines urgency of messages and seeks appropriate action
• Screens collect telephone calls from incarcerated defendants and the general public’s requests for assistance. Directs calls appropriately
• Assists with word processing tasks and assignments
• Receives and routes incoming mail and deliveries
• Oversees outgoing mail
• Performs all other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bilingual (English/Spanish) fluency is required
• High School graduate or equivalent
• Minimum of two years of general experience performing duties similar to those of this position
• One year of experience in a legal environment preferred
• Ability to answer and direct a high volume of incoming calls
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
• Multitasking and time-management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks
• Hands-on experience with office equipment (e.g. fax machines, printers, scanners)
• Excellent organization skills

SALARY/BENEFITS: Salary will be commensurate with experience. Salary range: JS-5/1 starting at $40,678 to JS-7/1 starting at $50,389. Robust benefits and retirement packages offered.

Selected candidate will be subject to verification and employment depends on a successful background investigation. All positions are at-will and subject to the availability of funds.

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:

Kymberly Bryant, Personnel Administrator
CAS_Employment@fd.org
Subject: Receptionist Position – San Diego

Position open until filled. Please, no telephone inquiries.

Federal Defenders of San Diego, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Selection of position will be based solely on merit without regard to race, color, religion, religious creed (including religious dress and religious grooming), sex (including pregnancy, perceived pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), gender, gender identity (including transgender identity and transitioning), gender expression and sex stereotyping, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, physical or mental disability, legally protected medical condition or information (including genetic information), family care or medical leave status, military caregiver status, military status, veteran status, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, status as a victim of domestic violence, sexual assault or stalking, enrollment in a public assistance program, engaging in protected communications regarding employee wages, requesting a reasonable accommodation on the basis of disability or bona fide religious belief or practice, or any other basis protected by local, state, or federal laws.