As a public defender your work will have immediate positive impact on people’s lives. You will provide representation and access to justice for clients in rural Eastern Oregon.
If you are an experienced attorney looking to focus on providing top-tier representation to indigent clients and mentorship to the next generation, we would love to hear from you. And if you are a newer attorney looking to gain real world experience in a supportive learning environment, Elkhorn could be the perfect move for your career.
A rural court system is an ideal training ground for a new and driven attorney. You will have training, support and opportunities to learn by doing in a variety of settings. You will be supported, but also trusted to drive strategic decisions and handle all aspects of a defense, including trials.
As a newer attorney, a position with Elkhorn will allow you to quickly earn your misdemeanor, lesser felony and major felony qualifications as certified by OPDC, advancing your career and providing more value to your clients. We offer access to regular on-site CLEs and trainings and we constantly push ourselves to improve our skills.
Our office is well-staffed, and you will have support in the form of highly competent Legal Assistants and Investigators, allowing you to focus more of your time on practicing law and serving your clients.
And just as important, we work in some of the most beautiful parts of the country. All of our offices are located in ideal areas for outdoor lovers, offering unparalleled access to hiking, camping, fishing, hunting and skiing. You will have a great quality of life in a close-knit community. We offer flexible remote working options and generous compensation and leave packages, and you will travel throughout our service areas. Whether you’re moving from a nearby city or across the country, a job with Elkhorn is a great chance for a change of venue.
Open Positions:
One Staff Attorney Position Open with Elkhorn Public Defender
Elkhorn Public Defender, Malheur County Office (Vale, OR).
We’re not just hiring—we’re building a team of advocates who are in it for the right reasons. Our office is growing, client-centered, and deeply committed to mentoring the next generation of public defenders. You’ll get real cases, real responsibility, and real support. We show up like the work matters, and we have each other’s backs while we do it. Our team is sharp, collaborative, and fully invested. If you bring purpose, grit, and a sense of humor, you’ll fit right in.
Work with purpose, explore with freedom.
Malheur County, Oregon, offers a rare mix of purpose, adventure, and affordability. Located on the eastern edge of the state near the Idaho border, this high-desert region is just over an hour from Boise. It’s ideal for attorneys who want to make a real impact without giving up on quality of life.
Forget traffic jams and overpriced apartments. Here, your backyard includes rivers, canyons, and open sky. Spend your free time hiking, fishing, rafting, or skiing—all within easy reach. When you’re ready for a city escape or a quick flight, Boise’s airport is just a short drive away.
If you’re looking for a career that makes a difference and a lifestyle that gives something back, Malheur County delivers both.
Serious work, stunning landscapes, and a chance to do what matters.
To apply, please email a resume and cover letter to: Tracey Blood at tracey@epdlaw.org
General: We are always interested in meeting new talent, so please drop us a line and send us your resume. We would love to meet you!
