Client Services Coordinator Intern Part-Time (Public Defender Dept.)

County of Berks; Reading (Berks County); On-site; USD 18,000 - 25,000; Part time

Job summary

County of Berks is seeking a part-time, hourly Intern for the Public Defender’s Office. You will work closely with the Chief Public Defender and staff, supporting case investigation, witness interviews, and mitigation report preparation.

The role includes translation of evidence from Spanish to English and coordination of client communications. Strong organizational skills and reliability are essential for success in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Actively enrolled in an undergraduate program in Political Science, Psychology, Criminal Justice, Languages, or related field.
• Prior experience using computer databases to retrieve/manipulate information and word processing.
• Prior customer service experience with public and professional contacts, face-to-face and by phone.

Responsibilities

• Communicates with attorneys, CSCs, clients, and county agencies regarding cases and mitigations.
• Maintains a calendar of significant dates and tracks client statistics.
• Prepares information for representation of Public Defender clients and language interpretation.
• Observes and assists in case investigation and mitigation report preparation.
• Operates office equipment and handles routine forms and correspondence.

Skills

English fluency

Spanish ability

Office software

Database concepts

Customer service

Phone system

Word processing

Education

Undergraduate student

Tools

Office software

Job description

Hourly Starting Rate -$15.53

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Client Services Coordinator (CSC) part-time intern in the Public Defender’s Office works directly with the Chief Public Defender, 1st Assistant Public Defender, Assistant Public Defenders, Client Services Coordinators, and management staff by performing administrative duties. The CSC intern observes and helps with case investigation, witness interviewing, preparing mitigation reports, and aiding in evidence analysis.Additionally, the Intern will aid in the translation of evidence from Spanish to English.

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES:

Essential Functions

The duties and responsibilities of this position include, but are not necessarily limited to:

• Communicates with attorneys, client services coordinators, and clients, and other County agencies concerning Public Defender clients, including but not limited to investigation of cases and client mitigations
• Maintains a calendar of significant dates and keeps statistical records regarding the number of clients aided by CSC staff;
• Corresponds with the necessary information for the representation of individuals deemed eligible for Public Defender Representation
• Observes and aids in the investigation of client cases;
• Observes and aids in the preparation of client Mitigation reports completed by CSC staff
• Prepares numerous types of computer-generated forms and correspondence necessary for the representation of Public Defender clients, specifically involving language interpretation.
• If able to communicate in Spanish, communicates with Spanish-speaking Public Defender applicants and clients.
• Operates various office equipment such as, fax, copier, and paper shredder.
• Answers telephone calls and directs questions to the appropriate person.
• Assists CSC personnel as necessary.

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Actively enrolled in an undergraduate program at an accredited college or university seeking a degree in Political Science, Psychology, Criminal Justice, Languages, or a related field of study.
• Prior experience utilizing computer database programs to retrieve and manipulate information, as well as word processing experience.
• Prior customer service experience with an emphasis on heavy contact with both the public and all levels of professionals, both face-to-face and by telephone.
• Any equivalent combination of experience and training that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

MINIMUM KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Successful completion of employment background check, including NCIC criminal check.
• Able to communicate effectively using the English language, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to communicate in Spanish preferred.
• Knowledgeable in the use of multi-line telephone equipment.
• Possess basic understanding of word processing software (Microsoft Word preferred) and database concepts.
• Understanding of office methods, rules, practices, and procedures.
• Capable of understanding and carrying out oral and written directions.
• Able to maintain cooperative working relationships with those contacted in the performance of duties, including all other employees.
• Tact, discretion, and professionalism in dealing with members of the public.
• Ability to handle stress.Physical presence in the office is required.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Work involves walking, talking, hearing, using hands to handle or feel objects, tools, or controls, and reaching with hands and arms. Vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus. Physical lifting of multiple files and file boxes as necessary.The maximum weight of boxes is 15 pounds, which is usually required approximately once per week.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT:

Work is performed in a standard cubicle, individual office, and courtroom environment. The position may require working in moderately noisy to loud environments, including cubicles and communal workspaces, and participating in frequent collaborative team meetings. The work environment may be fast-paced and include frequent interruptions, changing priorities, and interactions with employees, the public, and other stakeholders.

This position description serves as a guideline for communicating the essential functions and other information about the position to the applicant/employee. It is not intended to create a binding employment contract nor cover every detail of the position, and may be changed where appropriate.