Legal Assistant (OA)

U.S. Department of Homeland Security; Newark (NJ); On-site; USD 49,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security is seeking a Legal Assistant (OA) to support the Office of the Principal Legal Advisor. This role involves legal research, documentation preparation, and assisting attorneys in court activities. Candidates must meet specific qualifications and pass background checks. This full-time permanent position offers the opportunity to contribute to significant legal processes.

Qualifications

• One year of specialized experience at GS-06 level in legal assistance.
• Strong typing skills (40+ WPM).
• Experience researching and preparing documentation for attorney's court work.

Responsibilities

• Performing legal research and analysis.
• Drafting memorandums and court documentation.
• Maintaining docket calendars and preparing attorneys for court.

Skills

Researching

Communication

Document Review

Typing Proficiency

Education

Four years of education above high school

Specialized experience at GS-04 level or equivalent

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Organizational Location: This position is located in the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Office of the Principal Legal Advisor, in multiple locations.

Duties

As a Legal Assistant (OA), at the GS-7 full performance level, you will perform the following duties:

Requirements

• You must be a U.S. citizen to apply for this position.
• You must successfully pass a background investigation.
• You must successfully pass a drug screen.
• Males born after 12/31/59 must certify registration with Selective Service.
• Requirements by Closing Date: You must meet all requirements by the announcement's closing date.
• Probationary Period: This is a full-time permanent position. Upon appointment, you may be required to serve a one-year probationary period.

Qualifications

Please limit your resume to 5 pages; only the first 5 pages will be reviewed.

Be clear and specific in describing your experience. We will not assume your experience based on vague descriptions.

Do not copy and paste duties or questionnaires from this announcement into your resume, as that will not demonstrate your qualifications.

GS-05 Grade Level

You qualify if you have:

• One year of specialized experience at the GS-04 level or equivalent, such as:
  • Using computer software (e.g., Microsoft Office) for office activities.
  • Assisting in reviewing documents for accuracy.
  • Researching and communicating project information.
• OR successful completion of four years of education above high school in an accredited institution.
• OR a combination of education and experience.

GS-06 Grade Level

You qualify if you have:

• One year of specialized experience at the GS-05 level, such as:
  • Supporting office activities with software.
  • Maintaining docket calendars and schedules.
  • Preparing attorneys for court.
  • Performing legal research and analysis.

GS-07 Grade Level

You qualify if you have:

• One year of specialized experience at the GS-06 level, such as:
  • Researching and compiling documentation for court proceedings.
  • Updating databases and managing court dockets.
  • Drafting memorandums and correspondence.

Typing Proficiency

You must be able to type at least 40 words per minute with no more than three errors, based on a 5-minute sample.

Additional Notes

Qualification requirements must be met by the closing date. Verification may be required.

Volunteer experience and experience in national service programs are credited.

Current or former political appointees must disclose their status.

The Department encourages persons with disabilities and veterans to apply. For eligibility details, contact the HR Office or visit the links provided.