RECORDS ACCESS OFFICER

RECORDS ACCESS OFFICER
LAW DEPARTMENT
CITY OF WORCESTER

The City of Worcester is seeking qualified applicants for the position of Records Access Officer (RAO) for the Law Department. The position is responsible for the oversight and management of the City’s response to subpoenas and public records requests including, but not limited to, body worn camera footage, audio, video and other records and data. Preservation of City records in accordance with applicable laws and assisting people seeking records. The RAO will be required to perform administrative tasks such as redacting records and body worn camera footage, documenting and tracking requests, preparing and submitting fee cost estimates and correspondence, monitoring payments, preparing and submitting appeal responses and extensions and coordinating the gathering of responsive records from other City departments. It is a requirement that this position adheres to strict deadlines, guidelines, applicable laws and policies to ensure timely responses and compliance with proper documenting of exemptions. The RAO will train staff on records requirements, preservation, redaction techniques, use of software and compliance. This position will also monitor legal updates and update polices and guidelines as needed and assist in the procurement of records management and redaction software. The RAO is to perform these duties with a high level of confidentiality and sound decision making and ensure staff do as well.

Bilingual and multilingual applicants are encouraged to apply.

ESSENTIAL TASKS:

• Prepare, scan, redact and purge documents and files in compliance with policies, procedures, regulations and applicable laws
• Ensure compliance with all applicable policies, procedures, general orders, rules, regulations, and laws
• Search, retrieve, review, redact and distribute responses to requests in a timely fashion and in adherence with applicable guidelines, policies, and state and federal laws
• Coordinate with other departments in the retrieval of documents, files and audio/video footage from body worn cameras
• Ability to interpret, analyze and apply public records laws, including but not limited to, exemptions and codes
• Review body camera recording and audio to ensure proper redactions are applied
• Review Keeper of the Records subpoenas to identify issues and to coordinate and respond in a timely manner
• Prepare reports, logs and correspondence
• Understand and follow complex written and oral instructions and apply proper policies, procedures, and guidelines
• Maintain the confidentiality and integrity of sensitive information obtained or reviewed
• Train staff in the proper use of retrieval and redaction software, policies, regulations and applicable laws
• Provide customer service to visitors; process public records requests received by electronic mail or in person
• Perform other duties as assigned

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of local, state, federal public records and privacy laws
• Knowledge of how to prepare proper responses to Keeper of the Records subpoenas
• Ability to follow established guidelines and policies for proper use, retrieval and redaction of body worn camera footage and other files and documents included in response to public records requests and subpoenas
• Ability to use Microsoft 365 Applications, Adobe, redaction and retrieval software
• Superior organizational, time-management, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to identify requests of sensitive nature and bring to attention of supervisor and City Solicitor
• Ability to understand and follow complex written and oral instructions
• Ability to manage staff including oversight of work and assigning projects
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong attention to detail, self-motivator
• Ability to manage multiple assignments in a timely fashion
• Ability to train staff in the use of retrieval and redaction software
• Ability to compile, research and analyze data from various sources to prepare and present clear and concise reports and correspondence
• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality and exercise discretion and sound decision making
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment
• Ability to sit for long periods of time to review and redact video, audio evidence and documents
• Ability to learn and adapt to developed software for future technology as required by the job
• Ability to work with diverse groups as part of a team and/or independently
• Regular onsite attendance required

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelors Degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Criminal Justice, Paralegal Certification, or closely related field.
• Three (3) years of experience in the field of Information Technology and/or experience with video editing or closely related field or any combination of experience and training which enables one to perform the essential job functions.
• Experience working in Law Enforcement, Body Worn Cameras and/or in Public Records

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Five (5) years of experience in the field of Information Technology and/or experience with video editing or closely related field or any combination of experience and training which enables one to perform the essential job functions.
• Two (2) years of experience working in Law Enforcement, Body Worn Cameras and/or in Public Records
• Two (2) years of experience supervising staff

SALARY RANGE: $69,898 - $91,542 annually, full-time, exempt, with an excellent benefits package.

To apply, please visit: www.worcesterma.gov/employment or send resume and cover letter to: City of Worcester, 455 Main Street, Room 109, Worcester, MA 01608. OPEN UNTIL FILLED, applications received prior to or on FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2025, will receive preference. Preference is given to Worcester residents. The City of Worcester is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. Women, minorities, people with disabilities and protected veterans are encouraged to apply. Direct inquiries to: City Hall, Human Resources, Room 109, 508-799-1030, Hiring@worcesterma.gov.