Administrative Assistant

Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP is a premier global law firm seeking an Administrative Assistant to provide high‑quality secretarial, technical, and organizational support to lawyers and managers. The role emphasizes professionalism, strong communication, and discretion in handling sensitive information.

The position involves calendar management, drafting and revising legal documents, travel arrangements, time entry and expenses, client billing support, and year‑end activities.

Qualifications

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to prioritize multiple tasks.
• Proactive problem solving with initiative.

Responsibilities

• Manage an assignment desk.
• Serve as gatekeeper to attorney practices.
• Liaise with clients and attorneys; schedule meetings.

Skills

Excellent communication

Strong organizational skills

Proactive problem solving

Detail oriented

Discretion

Education

Associate Degree or higher

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP (including its associated entities) is an elite global law firm with world‑class practices across the board. Clients know they can rely on Davis Polk for their most challenging legal and business matters. From offices in the world's key financial centers and political capitals, our more than 1,000 lawyers collaborate seamlessly to deliver exceptional service, sophisticated advice and creative, practical solutions. Visit davispolk.com.

Position Summary

The Administrative Assistant provides high quality secretarial, technical, and organizational support to lawyers and managerial staff, as assigned. This is a dynamic position requiring professionalism, effective communication skills, and sound judgment, with a thorough understanding of the Firm’s policies. Additionally, this position requires attention to detail and superior customer service skills. The Administrative Assistant is a valued member of the support team, contributing to the overall success of the practice and department.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

• Manage an assignment desk.
• Serve as gatekeeper to attorney(s)’ practices.
• Interact with attorneys and legal teams.
• Liaise with clients.
• Maintain calendars, schedule appointments, and organize client and internal meetings.
• Draft, revise, and prepare correspondence, memoranda, and other legal documents.
• Coordinate travel arrangements and secure required documentation (e.g., visas).
• Enter attorney time and reimbursable expenses.
• Prepare client bills, track payments, and work in tandem with billing coordinators
• Assist with year-end activities and collections
• Develop knowledge of practice groups and their operations.

Qualifications/Position Requirements

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills, able to prioritize tasks and manage multiple responsibilities.
• Capable of adapting work styles to varied situations and principals’ preferences.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; strong technical skills required.
• High attention to detail with strong proofreading, data entry, and recordkeeping skills; ensure follow‑through on tasks and deadlines.
• Professionalism and discretion in handling sensitive information; represent the Firm positively and respectfully.
• Proactive problem‑solver with initiative; anticipate needs and resolve issues resourcefully.
• High standards of work ethic and personal integrity.
• Dependable, responsive, and disciplined, inspiring confidence and credibility.
• Collaborative team player; work effectively with internal departments and clients to foster a positive and cohesive work environment.
• Contribute value to the practice floor support team and department.
• Maintain awareness of industry trends.
• Actively contributes with team‑related activities and other knowledge‑sharing activities including mentoring to ensure first‑class service while away or out of office.

Education And/or Experience

• Associate Degree or higher
• 1 to 5 years’ experience as an administrative assistant or paralegal

Compensation

The expected base salary for this position ranges from $70,000 - $125,000. Salary offers are based on a wide range of factors including relevant skills, training, experience, education, anticipated assignment, and, where applicable, licensure or certifications obtained. Market and organizational factors are also considered. Davis Polk offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.