Requirements. An assistant federal public defender must be: (1) a graduate of an accredited law school and admitted to practice in good standing before the highest court of a state; and (2) licensed to practice in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Texas. Spanish-language fluency is required for this position. Appointment is subject to a satisfactory background investigation, including but not limited to an FBI name and fingerprint check and an IRS tax check.

Duties. The assistant federal public defender will represent clients charged with federal criminal offenses and clients involved in other matters covered under the Criminal Justice Act. The position requires travel for investigation, litigation, and training, and may involve foreign travel. Federal public defender attorneys may not engage in the private practice of law.

Selection Criteria. The successful applicant will have an established capacity or clearly demonstrated aptitude for excellence in criminal defense practice, a commitment to the representation of indigent accused persons, and a reputation for integrity. Applicants must also possess the ability to communicate effectively with clients, witnesses, colleagues, staff, and court and agency personnel as part of their employment. Experience in handling federal criminal cases is preferred, but not required.

Salary and Benefits. The salary of an assistant federal public defender is commensurate with that of an assistant U.S. attorney with similar qualifications and experience. The position is in the excepted service and does not carry the tenure rights of the competitive Civil Service. The position offers federal government employment benefits, including participation in health and life insurance program, retirement, and the Thrift Savings Plan. Salary is payable only by Electronic Funds Transfer (direct deposit).

How to Apply. Qualified persons may apply by forwarding a letter of interest (mentioning announcement number 18-15), résumé, and representative writing sample, along with three professional references. Litigation experience should be described in detail. Send completed application to: Maureen Scott Franco, Federal Public Defender, Western District of Texas, 2205 Veterans Blvd., Suite A-2, Del Rio, Texas 78840-3141. Electronic submissions will not be accepted. For applicants with disabilities, this organization provides reasonable accommodations, which are decided on a case-by-case basis. To request a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or interview process, contact Victoria B. Longoria, Personnel Administrator, at (210) 472-6700. More than one position may be filled from this announcement. Position announced September 10, 2018, subject to the availability of funds; open until filled.

Federal Public Defender is an equal-opportunity employer.