Paralegal Specialist

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health's (DPH) Office of the General Counsel is seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented Paralegal Specialist to join its team. This role offers a meaningful opportunity to contribute to work that directly supports the health and well-being of communities across the Commonwealth. As part of an organization committed to equity, access, and public trust, the Paralegal Specialist plays an essential role in ensuring that DPH operates in compliance with state and federal laws while advancing critical public health initiatives.


In this position, you will collaborate closely with attorneys and engage with stakeholders across all levels of government, serving as a key resource in the coordination and management of legal and administrative matters. The role involves supporting responses to subpoenas and public records requests, maintaining electronic licensure and case management systems, and assisting with the preparation and distribution of legal documents. This is an excellent opportunity for a legal professional who thrives in a mission-driven environment and values organization, precision, and public service. The ideal candidate will appreciate the unique intersection of law and public health and will be motivated by the opportunity to contribute to work that safeguards communities throughout Massachusetts. This position offers exposure to a wide range of legal issues, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to be part of a collaborative team dedicated to transparency, accountability, and the delivery of high-quality legal services in the public sector.


Duties and Responsibilities (these duties are a general summary and not all inclusive):

• Provide comprehensive administrative and operational support to attorneys within the Office of the General Counsel, ensuring the efficient delivery of legal services.

• Coordinate and assist with responses to subpoenas and public records requests, including applying appropriate redactions, drafting correspondence, managing production timelines, and maintaining tracking systems.

• Maintain and organize electronic licensure databases and legal file systems to ensure accurate recordkeeping and accessibility of information.

• Support the coordination and management of legal documents and case files related to pending matters.

• Assist with document management processes, including maintaining electronic dockets, master calendars, and other tracking databases to support legal operations.

• Compile and organize exhibits and administrative records in preparation for legal proceedings and agency actions.

• Prepare legal documents for final signature and oversee their distribution via email, regular mail, and certified mail.

• Serve as a liaison with members of the public, attorneys, and representatives from agencies across all levels of government to facilitate effective communication and coordination.

• Maintain administrative dockets and pleadings, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and timely updates.

• Provide technical assistance to parties participating in virtual hearings, supporting the smooth execution of legal proceedings.


Required Qualifications :

• Demonstrated knowledge of the theory, principles and practice of law.

• General understanding of the terminology, symbols and standard abbreviations used in legal practice.

• Familiarity with the methods of technical and general report writing.

• Experience with conducting legal research methods and procedures.

• Ability to read and understand legal documents such as decisions, briefs, opinions and contracts.


Preferred Qualifications :

• Paralegal certificate from an American Bar Association (ABA)-approved program.

• Prior experience supporting attorneys within a government agency, healthcare organization, or other highly regulated environment.

• Demonstrated knowledge of public records laws, including the Massachusetts Public Records Law, and experience responding to records requests and subpoenas.

• Familiarity with court procedures and administrative hearing processes.

• Experience managing electronic document management systems, legal databases, and case tracking tools.

• Strong organizational and project coordination skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet strict deadlines.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including experience drafting professional correspondence and legal documents.

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams; experience with document redaction.


DPH Mission and Vision:

The mission of the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) is to promote and protect health and wellness and prevent injury and illness for all people, prioritizing racial equity in health by improving equitable access to quality public health and health care services and partnering with communities most impacted by health inequities and structural racism.

We envision a Commonwealth with an equitable and just public health system that supports optimal well-being for all people in Massachusetts, centering those with systemically and culturally oppressed identities and circumstances.

Learn more:

Pre-Hire Process:

A criminal background check will be completed on the recommended candidate as required by the regulations set forth by the Executive Office of Health and Human Services prior to the candidate being hired. For more information, please visit

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 Record Law and may be published on the Commonwealth's website.

ADA Reasonable Accommodation:

If you require a reasonable accommodation with the application/interview process, please contact us at: EOHHS Candidate ADA Requests

For questions regarding this requisition, please contact the Executive Office of Health and Human Services Human Resources at View phone number on click.appcast.io

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.


Salary placement is determined by a combination of factors, including the candidate's years of directly related experience and education, and alignment with our internal compensation structure as set forth by the Human Resources Division's Hiring Guidelines. For all bargaining unit positions (non-management), compensation is subject to the salary provisions outlined in the applicable collective bargaining agreement and will apply to placement within the appropriate salary range.


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.