Qualified Electronic Operator

Government of the Virgin Islands; Charlotte Amalie (United States Virgin Islands); On-site; USD 34,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

Government of the Virgin Islands seeks a court recording specialist to produce verbatim records of proceedings using computer assisted recording systems. The role requires setup, operation, and maintenance of equipment, meticulous note-taking, and the ability to identify participants and exhibits for accurate transcripts.

Responsibilities include preparing transcripts, handling confidential information, and supporting court orders.

Qualifications

• Proficient typing of 50–60 words per minute.
• Strong knowledge of English grammar, punctuation and spelling.
• Proficient in computer-based transcription software.
• Ability to operate court recording equipment and control panels.

Responsibilities

• Makes and preserves a verbatim record of court proceedings using a computer assisted digital audio recording system.
• Set up and dismantle recording equipment in a professional manner.
• Ensure equipment operates properly and perform minor maintenance as needed.
• Maintain complete verbatim records including participants, exhibits and discussions.
• Search and retrieve specific references or testimony for playback on request.
• Prepare transcripts and related court documents using computer software.

Education

High School diploma or equivalent

Job description

This is responsible technical and clerical work. Work includes recording court proceedings on electronic recording equipment, monitoring the recording equipment to ensure that the proceeding is being properly recorded, to create and maintain notes of the proceedings to aid in transcription, and perform related administrative/clerical functions. Work requires the use of independent judgment and is reviewed and evaluated by the judge, court reporter supervisor or assigned designee.

Essential Functions

• Makes and preserves a verbatim record of court proceedings using a computer assisted digital audio recording system.
  • Quickly sets up and dismantles computer assisted digital audio equipment in a professional and tidy manner.
  • Ensures that the recording equipment is operating properly before use and performs minor maintenance on equipment and ensures regular cleaning and maintenance.
  • Maintains recording equipment and reports malfunctioning equipment to appropriate personnel.
  • Maintains complete verbatim record of all verbal and nonverbal incidents related to the proceedings, including but not limited to identifying participants by name,
  • Marks and identifies exhibits, noting any "off the record" discussions allowed, objections, bench or side-bar conferences, motions, rulings, jury instructions and types of testimony; organizes and searches official record; retrieve information for playback when requested; obtains specific references or testimony, as requested.
  • Monitors equipment to insure proper recording of various court proceedings.
  • Reminds parties to speak clearly or one at a time as needed and alert the judge when the recording is not clear.
  • Maintains high level of concentration and attentiveness throughout all court proceedings, regardless of disruptions and other unpredictable and adverse conditions.
  • Utilizes computer equipment and software for preparation of transcripts and court orders.
  • Maintains accurate and complete files and records, including notes, computer disks, exhibit lists, witness lists, court calendars and other materials for archiving.
  • Drafts and creates reports, routine correspondence and compiles monthly statistical data.
  • Other duties as assigned or required.

Knowledge, Abilities and Skills

• Knowledge of court procedures and policies, legal documents, laws and legal factors pertaining to the court.
• Knowledge of the legal system.
• Knowledge of modern office practices, procedures and equipment.
• Knowledge of English grammar, punctuation and spelling, as well as legal, medical and technical terminology and legal concepts.
• Knowledge of computer hardware and software, which may include word processing, spreadsheet, database, and computer-aided transcription software.
• Thorough knowledge of modern office practices, procedures, equipment, and systems.
• Skill in use of transcription equipment; ability to identify and correct errors in spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
• Ability to use courtroom audio equipment and control panel, personal computer, including specialized software packages (Word, Excel and Windows), data entry terminal, calculator, copy machines, electronic typewriter, and fax machine.
• Ability to type a minimum of 50-60 words per minute.
• Ability to work and make decisions independently; prioritize assignments.
• Ability to use analytical skills in working with the equipment and computers.
• Ability to perform other non-routine administrative and clerical tasks.
• Ability to exercise tact, patience and impartiality during all court proceedings, without regard to disruption and adverse and stressful conditions.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others to include the judiciary, judicial staff, court administrative staff, other government officials, attorneys, and the general public in a courteous manner using good tact and good judgment.Ability to interpret, explain, and apply applicable laws, rules, policies and procedures.
• Ability to understand and carry out complex or ambiguous oral and written instructions and execute tasks promptly.
• Ability to recognize and maintain the need for confidentiality.
• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, with a diverse group of people.
• Ability to listen and concentrate for extended periods of time.
• Ability to make quick decisions under pressure

Qualifications

(Any combination of training and work experience which indicates possession of the knowledge, abilities and skills listed above. An example of an acceptable qualification for this position is )

Possession of a High School diploma or equivalent and two years’ experience in an office setting, preferably in a court environment or any combination of education and experience that provides the following knowledge, skills and abilities. College training may be substituted for the work experience on a year-for-year basis.

Licensure and Certification

CER certification by the American Association of Electronic Reporters and Transcribers (AAERT) required at time of employment.

Working Conditions

Work is primarily performed in a courtroom, hearing room, conference room judge’s chambers and office setting. May include travel assignments.

Physical Demands

Work requires the ability to listen attentively, concentrate, sit, monitor and operate digital audio recorder for extended periods of time, use repetitive hand motion, work under stressful situations during intense court proceedings and transferring and transporting computer equipment to various locations both within and out of the courthouse to which assigned.

Employee may be required to carry objects weighing less than 25 pounds such as papers and files.