Director, Office of the Public Defender at Maricopa County

Posting Date11/20/25Application Deadline12/17/25Pay Range$162,000 - $243,000 annuallySalary offers are based on the candidate's equivalent experience and internal equity with other employees within the same job classification. This position is not eligible for overtime compensation.Job TypeUnclassifiedDepartmentPublic Defense ServicesAbout the PositionAre you an enthusiastic leader who believes in serving the indigent population and making a difference in the community? We are seeking a dedicated, motivated, and solution-driven Director to provide overall leadership, management, and direction for the Office of the Public Defender.About UsWith over 450 employees, the Office of the Public Defender is the largest of the five indigent defense offices in Maricopa County. We are also one of the largest public defender offices in the country. Our office provides innovative, client-centered legal representation in the full range of criminal matters to clients unable to afford legal counsel. Our attorneys and staff are committed to treating our clients with respect and dignity as we defend their constitutional rights in court. This is a fast-paced department with an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of the people we serve.Proud To OfferWork with a greater purposeTuition reimbursementExceptional work-life balance, with hybrid and alternative work schedule optionsOpportunities for growth and development within Maricopa CountyLow-cost, high-value healthcare for you and your qualifying dependentsChild care benefits, including access to our on-site center Maricopa County Kids Club, dedicated to serving Maricopa County families exclusivelyPaid vacation, sick time, and parental leaveExtensive wellness program, including healthcare premium discountsMaricopa County participates in the Arizona State Retirement System. This defined retirement benefit requires a 12% monthly contribution rate and includes a 100% employer match on Day 1Learn more at Work With Us | Maricopa County, AZWe RequireTen years of experience practicing as an attorney, of which four must be in government indigent representationFive years of supervisory or management experienceDoctor of Jurisprudence or Doctor of Law degree from an American Bar Association-accredited law schoolOther RequirementsThe selected candidate must be licensed to practice law as a member in good standing with the State Bar of Arizona, or licensed to practice in another state with the ability to obtain admission to the State Bar of Arizona at the time of hireWe Also ValueOur preferred candidate has experience in the management process and policy-making functions of a law office.Job ContributionsProvides administrative and operational direction for all activities of the Office of the Public DefenderWorks collaboratively with the Office of Public Defense Services, Legal Advocate, Public Advocate, and Legal DefenderWorks with the Office of Public Defense Services to assist in the creation of strategic planning and budget developmentDirects and implements departmental policies and proceduresEnsures compliance with Federal and State ethical, statutory, and Constitutional mandatesMeets and confers with the public, Public Defense Services, other County Departments, the Courts, and Federal, State, local, and intergovernmental agenciesMonitors and participates in legislative activities, which may affect the County's legal defense operationsSupervises the interviewing, hiring, performance, and management of attorneys, mitigation specialists, investigators, social workers, secretarial, clerical, and administrative staffWorking ConditionsThe employee in this position may experience traumatic subject matter, interruptions, time pressures, high volumes of work, handling multiple or complicated tasks, unscheduled tasks and/or frequently changing tasks. The position requires accuracy, strong decision-making skills, concentration/vigilance, teamwork, working in close physical proximity to others, and significant public contact.Selection ProcedureOnly the most qualified candidates will be consideredConsideration will only be given to candidates who submit online applicationsCandidates will be contacted primarily through email and their Workday online application profileMust pass a pre-employment background and/or fingerprint investigation as required by statute or policy, including drug and alcohol testing requirements for positions designated as safety-sensitiveMaricopa County is an equal opportunity employer.Apply Now!