Project Assistant

Vedder; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 50,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Vedder's Chicago office is seeking a Project Assistant. This entry-level role offers a unique learning opportunity across practice areas, with supervision from a paralegal to support attorneys on case tasks. No prior experience is required, and you will gain foundational knowledge while assisting deal teams.

The duties include case setup, eDiscovery support, document management, deposition prep, and trial logistics. The role is hybrid, requiring in-office presence at least three days per week.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required.
• Experience with legal research tools is a plus.
• Strong organization and attention to detail.
• Ability to learn quickly and apply training.

Responsibilities

• Assist with initial case setup, data analytics and organization.
• Support paralegals with eDiscovery tasks.
• Organize and manage case-related documents.
• Prepare case and trial binders.
• Track and input information into various platforms.
• Assist with deposition and trial logistics.
• Routinely update client files and documents.
• Maintain files for transactions.

Skills

Quick learner

Organized

Communication

Under pressure

Multitask

Team player

Interpersonal skills

Overtime willing

Hybrid work

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

Microsoft Word

Outlook

Excel

Litigation databases (PACER/Westlaw/Lexis/Relativity)

DocuSign/SharePoint

Job description

Vedder's Chicago office is seeking a Project Assistant. This is an entry-level position offering a unique opportunity to learn about the various practice areas from the ground up. As a project assistant in these practice areas, you will work under the direct supervision of a paralegal to assist paralegals and attorneys with a variety of tasks and projects within the lifespan of a case. You will also gain foundational knowledge and skills while providing task-based support to the deal teams. No prior experience is required.

As a Project Assistant, your duties will include but not be limited to:

• Assist with the initial case setup, data analytics and organization.
• Assist paralegals with eDiscovery tasks.
• Assist with the organization, filing and management of case-related documents.
• Prepare case and trial binders of relevant information and documents.
• Track, log and input information into various platforms.
• Assist with deposition arrangements and the preparation of witness files; Load, search and pull deposition transcripts and assist with designations.
• Assist with online research including fact-checking, cite checking, expert research, etc.; Pull electronic cases and docket information.
• Assist with trial logistics and pre-trial planning; Provide support at trial, arbitration or mediations.
• Assist paralegals with post-trial briefing and tasks; Review and organize due diligence materials.
• Routinely organize and maintain files related to various transactions.
• Assist with obtaining and completing forms and filing documents.
• Prepare and distribute closing sets (electronic and/or hard copy).
• Follow up, track and organize post-closing items.
• Update and maintain client files and documents (including minute books and client records).
• Update client entity information in client management database.
• Interface with various departments to accomplish tasks Work with various internal departments and outside vendors.
• Annual billable target of 1,050 hours.

Skills & Competencies:

• Ability to learn quickly and apply training to practical issues.
• Excellent organization skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure.
• Ability to multitask and exercise successful time management.
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
• Excellent interpersonal skills.
• Willing to work overtime.
• This role is hybrid and will require at least three days of work in the office.

Qualifications & Required Experience:

Bachelor's degree, required.

Computer Skills:

• Microsoft Word, Outlook and Excel; Internet Explorer, Edge, or Adobe
• Exposure to PACER, Westlaw, Lexis, Relativity, secured file transfer software, or any litigation database platform is a plus
• Experience in DocuSign, SharePoint, or secured file transferring software is a plus

Compensation Range:

$50,000/yr. to $55,000/yr.

At Vedder, we believe in recognizing and rewarding our employees' contributions. Our comprehensive Total Rewards Package includes:

• Competitive Salary: We offer a competitive base salary commensurate with skills and experience.
• Bonus Program: Discretionary annual bonus program.
• Retirement Planning: Discretionary profit sharing and 401(k) matching to help you plan for your future.
• Health and Wellness: Comprehensive health, dental, and vision plans, along with optional health savings and flexible spending accounts, firm-paid Life and Disability benefits, and wellness programs to support your overall well‑being.
• Paid Time Off: Competitive time off package including vacation days, paid holidays, sick time and personal days.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for continuous learning and career growth through firm provided training programs.
• Employee Recognition: Anniversary and Vedder Praise Programs to celebrate your achievements and milestones.
• Work-Life Balance: Hybrid work model and family-friendly policies.
• Additional Perks: Employee discount program, pre-tax commuter benefits, back up child & elder care, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), fitness center discounts and more.

Join Vedder and be part of a team that values hard work and dedication!

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Vedder Price P.C. is an equal opportunity employer. We value and encourage diversity and solicit applications from all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, gender, sex, age, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, marital status, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability (where applicant is qualified to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodations), medical condition, protected veteran status, gender identity, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. We participate in E-verify.