Job Description

Do you enjoy helping others and want to make a significant impact in what you do? If yes, look no further!
The Iowa State Public Defender's Office is seeking a highly motivated, skilled, and enthusiastic Secretary 1 to provide clerical support in our Cedar Rapids office located in Linn County, Iowa.Who We Are
The mission of the Office of the State Public Defender is to ensure that all indigent persons in Iowa are provided high quality legal representation in criminal, juvenile, and other eligible proceedings in the most efficient and fiscally responsible manner.What You'll Do
As a Secretary 1 in this position, you will:

• Receive and direct phone calls from Public Defender clients, court administrative staff, and attorneys. Answer routine questions from clients and client family members concerning court dates, status of the case, explain court orders and other legal documents they have received.
• Process incoming and outgoing mail. Review and identify correspondence of a sensitive or important nature and take appropriate action.
• Calendar coordination that includes scheduling meetings and making appointments for attorneys and investigators.
• Prepare and proof forms and correspondence of a legal nature such as letters, orders, affidavits, motions, and briefs for accuracy, grammar, spelling, and sentence structure.
• Accurately maintain legal case files, log data from court orders into case management system for the precise and effective reporting, recording, storage, retrieval and use of case data.
• Access Iowa Courts Online to verify court dates and case information.
• Proficiently use EDMS (Iowa Court's Electronic Data Management System) to file legal documents with courts and to collect, download, and categorize electronic discovery, including audio, video, and written materials from multiple sources, to be utilized in the analysis of criminal matters.
• Assist staff with general software functionality when requested, such as Microsoft Office suites and other Google-based systems.
• Complete other assignments at the direction of the Public Defender Supervisor.

What We're Seeking
The successful candidate for this fast-paced position is a motivated, organized, and a detail-focused individual. Applicants should have a proven track record of completing tasks on a strict deadline, experience working with diverse populations, and work well in a team environment.Desired skills and abilities include:

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Good computer skills - preference given to those with experience in Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, databases, spreadsheets, and legal case management systems.
• Customer-centric attitude and demeanor.
• Displays high standards of professional and ethical conduct.
• Good people skills - this position requires regular contact with Public Defender clients, clerks, judges, county attorneys and service providers, good people skills are necessary.
• Legal experience desired.

What We Offer
When you join the SPD, you become a part of a strong team culture that is committed to serving the community. In addition to providing a respect for work-life balance, we have a competitive total compensation package for all of our full-time employees, including:

• Robust benefits, including excellent health, dental, life and vision insurance.
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, paid holidays, and sick leave accrual.
• On the job training by dedicated, experienced professionals.
• Opportunities for professional development.
• Flexible Spending Accounts for medical and dependent care.
• Iowa Public Employee Retirement System (IPERS) Retirement Package.
• Retirement Investors Club (Employer Sponsored Retirement Plan).
• Employee Assistance Program for support when you need it most.
• Employee Discount Programs from a variety of vendors (vision, cellular, fitness, and more)
• Access to an on-site employee fitness center (6200 Park Avenue location only).

For additional information on benefits click here.Embark on a rewarding career dedicated to public service and make a difference with us!Minimum Qualification RequirementsExperience equal to one year of full-time clerical or closely related work;OR post high school course work in an accredited secretarial, business, or closely related curriculum may be substituted for the required experience on a month-for-month basis;OR completion of thirty (30) semester (or equivalent) hours of undergraduate college level course work may be substituted for the one year of required experience;OR certification from the State of Iowa Administrative Assistant Certificate Program will substitute for six months of the required experience;OR employees with current continuous experience in the state executive branch that includes permanent status as a Typist-Advanced.For additional information, please click on thisAdditional Qualification RequirementsTyping Requirement: Applicants may be required to have the ability to type 40 wpm net. If included in the Minimum Requirements of this job vacancy, you must provide verification of your typing score prior to the closing date of this vacancy.Why Choose the State of Iowa?At the heart of our commitment to excellence is a dedication to our most valuable asset - our employees. Discover the outstanding benefits that set us apart as an employer of choice.Our Robust Benefits Package Includes:Competitive Compensation:Enjoy a competitive salary that reflects directly on your skills and expertise.Keep in mind, your wage is just one part of your total compensation. Unlock the complete value of your employment with the State of Iowa by using our user-friendly . Gain insights into your comprehensive annual compensation, including salary and State-provided benefits.Health and Wellness:Prioritize your well-being with our comprehensive health plans, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. Enjoy the peace of mind knowing that the State of Iowa covers 90% of the premiums, providing you and your loved ones with excellent coverage at a remarkably low cost.Retirement Planning:We are proud to offer the Iowa Public Employees Retirement System (IPERS). A defined benefit plan, IPERS benefits are guaranteed for life, meaning once you retire, you will receive the same monthly benefit for the remainder of your life (once vested). We invest in your long-term financial well-being, so you can retire with peace of mind. .Paid Time Off:Life is unpredictable, and at the State of Iowa, we understand the importance of work-life balance. Our leave policies, including paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave with unlimited accrual, ensure you have the flexibility you need for personal and family matters.Professional Development:Elevate your career with continuous learning opportunities. We support your growth through training programs, workshops, and tuition reimbursement.Employee Assistance Program (EAP):We care about your well-being beyond the workplace. Access confidential counseling, resources, and support through our Employee Assistance Program.Diversity and Inclusion:Be part of a diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces all backgrounds and perspectives. We believe diversity is a strength that drives innovation.Join Us - Elevate Your Career:Ready to elevate your career with the State of Iowa? to explore more about our unparalleled benefits and discover what makes us unique. Your success is our priority!

State of Iowa