Social Worker​/Mitigation Specialist

Federal Public Defender, Western District of Pennsylvania

Recruitment began on February 2, 2026.

The job listing expires on March 5, 2026.

The Federal Public Defender for the Western District of Pennsylvania is accepting applications for the position of Social Worker/Mitigation Specialist. The Social Worker/Mitigation Specialist is a key member of the defense team who reviews evidence, develops theories of defense and mitigation, locates and interviews witnesses for fact and mitigation investigation, identifies experts, visits crime scenes, assists in preparation for trial and other court hearings, and testifies in court when required.

This role also gathers, reviews, and analyzes records; serves subpoenas; and works with attorneys to interview clients, document clients’ social history, and prepare mitigation summaries for plea negotiation and sentencing.

The Social Worker/Mitigation Specialist must be able to establish and maintain good working relationships with individuals and agencies (including prisons), provide oral and written reports, and use technology including software, cameras, and other equipment. This role is an essential part of providing equal justice to individuals unable to afford counsel in federal cases. The ideal candidate brings strong initiative, sound judgment, discretion, and a deep commitment to client-centered advocacy.

This position will primarily support the Trial Unit and the Appeals/Non-Capital Habeas Unit in our Pittsburgh office with additional support provided to cases in the Erie and Johnstown offices as needed.

• Work on interdisciplinary defense teams to investigate allegations of federal criminal conduct and prepare written mitigation materials for court.
• Conduct assessments, develop service plans, and provide client centered support, referrals, crisis intervention and case management assistance.
• Together with paralegals and investigators, obtain and review records including those related to:
  • Prior court and prison history
  • Social and family history
  • Neighborhoods and schools
  • Medical and mental health treatment
  • Other relevant subjects impacting the client’s life
• Locate and conduct witness interviews to assist the attorney in advocating for pretrial release.
• Develop mitigating circumstances in the client’s life to assist at trial or sentencing.
• Develop, assess, and maintain referral and service resources with service providers and experts.
• Attend relevant trainings and conferences, and develop training programs for the FPD staff.

Applicants must hold an undergraduate or graduate degree in social work. A variety of experience, including in the application of traditional social work advocacy and clinical skills, would be helpful, as would experience developing and analyzing mitigation evidence for court proceedings and mitigation report writing. The ability to read, write, and speak fluently in the Spanish language is preferred but not required.

This position requires considerable initiative, resourcefulness, creativity and drive; excellent writing skills, computer proficiency, the ability to communicate and work well with others; and a commitment to obtaining justice for indigent persons. The successful applicant can analyze and evaluate facts, evidence, and related information. This position requires regular travel in the Western District of Pennsylvania as well as some overnight and out-of-state stays.

Applicants must have a valid driver’s license, reliable car, and motor vehicle insurance.

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

A. Long, Federal Public Defender, , Subject: 2026-05