The Office of the Federal Public Defender for the Eastern District of Virginia is accepting applications for an Administrative Assistant position in our Norfolk office. Pursuant to the Criminal Justice Act, 18 U.S.C. § 3006A, the office provides legal representation to indigent defendants in federal criminal cases and related matters.
The successful applicant will have a working knowledge of law office operations and is proficient in organizing and prioritizing their own work; typing, data entry, email, and report generation; using standard office equipment (telephones, copiers, fax machines, scanners, calculators, etc.); can follow detailed instructions and multitask; and can demonstrate experience in operating a multi-line telephone efficiently. The position requires proficiency in a wide range of programs, including Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel and other office automation products. The ideal candidate will effectively communicate with colleagues, outside agencies, court personnel, and the public, to include our clients and client families; has a demonstrated work history of dependability, initiative, and responsibility; has high ethical standards; is a team player; and has an interest in indigent criminal defense and compassion for our work and clients. A successful candidate will demonstrate the ability to consistently exercise sound judgment, act with diplomacy, and maintain confidentiality. Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States. The physical demands of the position are those required to successfully perform the duties described above. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions. The Administrative Assistant will spend most of their time in an office environment consistent with our telework policy. The individual must occasionally lift and/or move 25-50 pounds. Travel may be necessary and a valid driver's license is preferred.
An Administrative Assistant supports the Branch Manager and local Supervisory Attorney in performing administrative duties while also providing case management support to attorneys and staff. The position's duties include but are not limited to: greeting and directing visitors and clients, answering and routing calls to the office, overseeing incoming and outgoing mail, opening and closing physical and digital case files, assisting in financial and case file management, and managing office calendars for trials and dockets. This position will also assist the Administrative Officer in district-wide property management, which includes regular review of district property reporting, and advising on current projects and their applicability to property regulation. This position will serve as a backup for the Branch Manager and will cross train in a number of the duties required to perform that role on a limited basis.