Job Description

Posting number: 065

Department: Office of Public Defense

Job classification: ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT 1

Posting type: Open & Promotional

Categories: Administrative Assistant, Clerical & Data Entry, Legal, Office and Administrative Support

About the Washington State Office of Public Defense (OPD)

We are an independent judicial branch agency mandated to implement the constitutional and statutory guarantees of counsel and to ensure the effective and efficient delivery of indigent defense services funded by the state.

Mission: Upholding the rights of all people who are facing the loss of liberty or family by providing statewide leadership, administration, and support to the multidisciplinary public defense profession.
Vision Public defense clients, everywhere in the state, receive truly equitable and client-centered representation from fully supported professionals.
Values Justice * Service * Equity * Excellence

We administer a variety of programs, including systemic improvement programs and programs providing direct representation. To learn about OPD’s programs click here We are dedicated to excellence in public law and indigent defense, and we seek talented candidates who share this commitment to client-centered service. We value employees who bring diverse backgrounds in education, employment, community activities, and life experiences to enhance our office.

OPD is recruiting for a temporary Administrative Assistant to provide reception services and general support to the administrative team. This position is expected to run until June 30, 2027 with a possibility of becoming permanent before the end of that period.

This recruitment could close at any time so applicants are encouraged to apply early.

Examples of duties

General Responsibilities

• Answer incoming telephone calls; screen and direct calls as appropriate. Provide information and assistance when possible.
• Prepare professional-quality business/legal correspondence on a deadline.
• Respond to inquiries from contract attorneys, courts, incarcerated individuals, the public and other members of the public defense community.
• Assist with reconciliation of purchase and travel receipts.
• May assist in creating, maintaining and uploading web content materials according to agency policy. Training will be provided.
• Perform administrative duties that require independent judgment, accountability, confidentiality, organizational and prioritization skills, and outstanding interpersonal skills.
• Coordinate with other agency staff members on administrative practices and procedures.
• Assist with other administrative tasks as assigned.
• Exercise mature judgment in potentially sensitive, high-stress situations.
• Participate in and foster a collaborative working environment at OPD, with statewide stakeholder groups, and in demographically diverse local court systems.
• Diligently follow attorney and state employee ethics requirements.
• Conduct all activities with the highest degree of professionalism in furtherance of OPD’s Mission, Vision and Values.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• Experience using basic office equipment and software.
• Ability to learn and use new computer applications as necessary.
• Customer service and people skills, including the ability to communicate effectively in person, by email, and by telephone.
• Ability to prioritize tasks, handle short deadlines, and work independently.
• Ability to be punctual and dependable.
• Ability to follow basic instructions and complete tasks with minimal oversight.
• Well-developed skills in Microsoft Word, Outlook, Excel and navigating databases.
• Well-developed writing and proofreading skills.
• Attention to detail.
• Have the ability to prioritize tasks, and to function independently as well as part of a team in a collaborative environment.

Desired Qualifications

• Experience working in a fast-paced office setting.
• Experience working in the Washington state criminal legal system.

If you have questions about the position, please contact Tracy Sims, Office & HR Manager at Tracy.Sims@opd.wa.gov

Supplemental information

Compensation
$55,596 to $64,512, annually.
Compensation depending on qualifications. Washington State employees are offered a comprehensive benefit package that includes: paid holidays, vacation and sick leave, retirement and health, dental and life insurance coverage for self and family. There are also options for deferred compensation and pre-tax flexible spending accounts. This position is overtime eligible.

Application Process
To be considered, interested candidates must apply online at www.careers.wa.gov (Click on the APPLY button above.) You must complete the entire online application. In addition to the online application:

• Attach a letter of interest describing how your experience and qualifications relate to the position profile.
• Provide three personal or professional references with contact information. You may attach a document or use the References text field in the online application.

If you have problems navigating the online application process or uploading the required documents, email tracy.sims@opd.wa.gov for assistance.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
We vigorously pursue diversity in the work force. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons over 40 year of age, LGBTQIA+, persons with disabilities, formerly incarcerated, prior child welfare involvement, and military veterans are encouraged to apply. Pursuing diversity, equity and inclusion means that as an agency, and as individuals, we are committed to ensuring that all employees enjoy a respectful, safe, and supportive working environment.

Expectations for this position
It is expected the successful candidate will work on site at the Office of Public Defense offices at 711 Capitol Way S., Olympia, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with a half hour lunch, except for state paid holidays.