Paralegal Specialist

The Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC) is seeking a Paralegal Specialist in the Office of the General Counsel/Division of Hearings!

AGENCY MISSION:

The Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC) is responsible for building more homes and lowering housing costs across the Commonwealth through partnerships with municipalities, housing authorities, and community stakeholders.


OVERVIEW OF ROLE:

EOHLC's Office of the General Counsel is seeking a detail-oriented legal professional with experience providing paralegal and administrative support in a fast-paced environment. Skilled in case and document management, legal research, scheduling, records maintenance, and communicating with attorneys, clients, and the public. Proficient in Microsoft Office and experience handling confidential information while maintaining accuracy, organization, and exceptional customer service. Recognized for strong problem-solving skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities while supporting efficient legal operations.


DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (NOT ALL INCLUSIVE):


1. Hearings

• Schedules hearings and prepares notices in conformity with statutory requirements; maintains Division's calendar.

• Maintains the official docket of cases, including the record in individual cases.

• Interacts with program staff, lawyers, applicants and/or recipients of programs administered by EOHLC, and other parties regarding scheduling of hearings and other matters related to the Division.

• Prepares files for hearings officers prior to hearing, and assists hearings officers in preparing for hearings.

• Maintains electronic database and paper files of all appeal requests.


2. Responses:

• Answers the Division telephone and responds to inquiries concerning matters related to the Division.

• Responds to case-specific inquiries from litigants and their counsel.

• Prepares Division response and compilation of requested materials in response to public record requests.


3. Assists:

• Assists in preparing the administrative record for cases that are appealed by reviewing and organizing pleadings and exhibits.

• Assists Hearings Manager on other tasks as needed.

• Prepares Division response and compilation of requested materials in response to public record requests.

• As necessary, attends hearings and meetings and prepares notes and minutes.

• Performs word processing, database management, copying, printing, scanning, filing, mailing, and other administrative functions and tasks as needed.

• Provides paralegal and administrative services and support to the Housing Appeals Committee and the Legal Division generally, as assigned.

• May be asked to assist with Paralegal functions of other programs within EOHLC.


PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Paralegal Certificate preferred.

2. Ability to speak Spanish is a plus.

3. Possesses and utilizes strong oral and written communication skills, including skills required to communicate with both lawyers and the public.

4. Organizes tasks and works independently.

5. Possesses strong telephone and interpersonal skills; remains calm when interacting with agitated constituents.

6. Possesses and utilizes strong word processing and database management skills, including, at a minimum of intermediate level of proficiency using, Microsoft Word, Access, Excel and Outlook programs.

7. Demonstrates familiarity with judicial ethics; exercises good judgment and personal integrity.

8. Demonstrates and utilizes knowledge of docketing procedures and other administrative procedures, laws and regulations relating to adjudicatory hearings and deliberations.

9. Is detail-oriented and able to effectively implement changes in schedule or routine.


COMMENTS:

Please upload resume and cover letter.


This position would be expected to follow a hybrid model of reporting to work that combines in-office workdays and work from home days, as needed.


Salary placement is determined by years of experience and education directly related to the position and the Human Resources Division's Recruiting Guidelines. In the case of a promotional opportunity, the salary provisions of the applicable collective bargaining agreement will apply to placement within the appropriate salary range.


Education, licensure and certifications will be verified in accordance with the Human Resources Division's Hiring Guidelines. Education and license/certification information provided by the selected candidate(s) is subject to the Massachusetts Public Records Law and may be published on the Commonwealth's website.

Qualifications:
First consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days.

MINIMUM ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS:


Applicants must have at least (A) two years of full-time, or equivalent part-time, paraprofessional experience in legal research or legal assistant work, or (B) any equivalent combination of the required experience and the substitutions below.


Substitutions:


I. An Associate's or higher degree with a major in paralegal studies may be substituted for the required experience.


II. Completion of one year of study at a recognized, degree-granting law school may be substituted for the required experience.


SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Based on assignment, possession of a current and valid Massachusetts Motor Vehicle Operator's License may be required.


Comprehensive Benefits


When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.


Want the specifics? Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards!


An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.


The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.