Administrative Support

Administrative Support Assistant 3

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 Administrative Support Assistant 3 to provide clerical support in our Des Moines office located in Polk County, Iowa.

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.

As an Administrative Support Assistant 3 in this position, you will:

• Assist attorneys and investigators with Project to Preserve Families initiative, including preparing complex legal reports, subpoenas and forms.
• Accurately prepare, maintain and organize case files and trial notebooks. Proficient use of EDMS (Iowa Court's Electronic Data Management System). Collect, download, and categorize electronic discovery, including audio, video, and written materials from multiple sources, to be utilized in the analysis of criminal matters.
• Maintain and log data from referrals and providers to ensure accurate reporting and case assignments. Verify information including data entry, conflict searches, case maintenance, document merges, close-out procedures, file destruction, and reports. Verify database information for accurate and timely statistical reporting utilized by SPD Administrative Office for budget and caseload projection analysis.
• Accurately answer questions from clients and client family members concerning court dates and case status. Explain letters, court orders, or other legal documents. Review incoming mail and court documents and identify correspondence of a sensitive or important nature and take appropriate action.
• Monitor office supplies and determine when supplies are required. Evaluate resources for best prices and quantities and determine if order is consistent with budget. Complete and submit RFPs, miscellaneous claim forms and travel payment vouchers as needed.
• Complete other assignments at the direction of the Public Defender Supervisor.

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.

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 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).

Embark on a rewarding career dedicated to public service and make a difference with us!