Judicial Operations Clerk - Criminal (D5 112556)

Job Description

Position Overview: The Iowa Judicial Branch is seeking a detail-oriented and highly organized Judicial Operations Criminal Clerk to join the Polk County Clerk of Court team.

The Criminal Clerk is responsible for processing and managing criminal case documents submitted by external filers, attorneys, law enforcement agencies, and the general public, as well as materials received internally from judges and court staff. This role requires strong attention to detail, excellent communication skills, and the ability to provide high-quality service to a diverse range of individuals. The Criminal Clerk ensures accurate recordkeeping, timely workflow, and compliance with applicable laws, rules, and procedures.

TO APPLY: Candidates will need to complete the NEOGOV application and attach a cover letter and resume. Final applicants are subjected to a criminal background check. The Iowa Judicial Branch is an E-Verify employer.

The starting salary for new State of Iowa Judicial employees is expected to be at the base of the pay range. The starting pay for this position is $21.42/hour. This is a contract covered, FLSA position.

Hours: Monday – Friday 8:00A – 4:30P

Key Responsibilities

• Receive, review, and process criminal filings and documents from external filers and internal judicial officers.
• Maintain accurate case records, files, and digital databases in accordance with court policies.
• Assist judges, attorneys, law enforcement, and members of the public with case information and procedural questions within authorized guidelines.
• Verify completeness and accuracy of submitted documents and follow up as needed.
• Prepare and route documents for judicial review and ensure timely distribution of orders and notices.
• Provide front-line customer service via in-person, phone, and electronic communication.
• Handle confidential information with discretion and comply with all confidentiality requirements.
• Perform general clerical duties including data entry, scanning, file maintenance, and correspondence.
• Support courtroom operations as assigned.
  
  

This is a non-merit position with the Iowa Judicial Branch. Candidates must follow the instructions in the "To Apply" section.

Positions in this class are exempt from the screening and referral requirements of the Iowa Department of Administrative Services - Human Resources Enterprise.

Minimum Qualification Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• At least one (1) year of customer service experience.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience in a court, legal, or criminal justice setting.
• Experience with case management or document management systems.
• Familiarity with legal terminology, filing procedures, or judicial processes.
• Demonstrated ability to handle sensitive or confidential information appropriately.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple deadlines.
• Bilingual, Spanish language preferred
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office or similar office software.
  
  

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Office and public counter environment with frequent interaction with the public
• Ability to sit, stand, and perform clerical tasks for extended periods.
• May require occasional lifting of files or office supplies
  
  

Additional Information

• May be designated to give bond per Iowa Code
• 602.8101.3
  
  

The Iowa Judicial Branch is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. Applicants may review the Equal Employment Opportunity Utilization Report from the Iowa Judicial Branch website as part of our commitment to transparency and compliance with federal and state regulations.

This position is covered by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) with American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees, Iowa Council 61, AFL-CIO (AFSCME)].