ONEIDA COUNTY GOVERNMENT
NOTICE OF VACANCY
DEPARTMENT: Public Defender - Criminal
CIVIL SERVICE TITLE: Public Defender
CLASSIFICATION TYPE: Exempt
SALARY (GRADE): $118,463 (49H) Plus Excellent Benefits
APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 31, 2026
APPLY ONLINE*: https://oneida-portal.mycivilservice.com/post/jobopps
DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: The work involves responsibility for
representing indigent defendants charged with crimes, when requested. The Public Defender
shall represent without charge, or by order of the Court with the consent of the defendant, each
indigent defendant who is charged with a crime, as defined by Section 722(a) of the County Law.
The Public Defender shall counsel and represent the defendant at every stage of the proceedings
following his arrest and shall initiate such proceedings as in his or her judgement are necessary
to protect the rights of the accused; and may at his or her discretion, prosecute any appeals if in
his or her judgement the facts and circumstances warrant such. In addition, the Public Defender
may assign professional, technical and clerical personnel in the investigation, preparation,
conduct and appeal in any court proceedings involving indigent defendants. The work is to be
performed under guidelines provided by law. The incumbent does related work as required.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Candidates must meet the minimum qualifications at time of
application. Either:
(A) Admission to the Bar of New York State AND five (5) years of experience in public or private
practice of law.
**Oneida County is an equal opportunity employer**
If you do not have internet access, paper applications can be picked up at the Oneida County Office Building (Utica, NY)
in the Personnel Department. You may also request a paper application to be mailed by calling 315-798-5726.
Issued: 08/17/2026
