Administrative Assistant - KC Defenderplex

Job Summary - Why you’ll love this position

The Missouri State Public Defender System (MSPD) is committed to providing high-quality legal representation to individuals who cannot afford counsel. The Administrative Assistant plays a key role in supporting that mission by ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of the MSPD offices within the Defenderplex building.

This position serves as the organizational backbone of the office, coordinating administrative functions, supporting leadership and staff, and acting as a liaison between the office and internal departments, courts, and external partners. You’ll have the opportunity to take ownership of projects, manage office operations, and contribute to a collaborative team environment that supports meaningful work across the justice system.

This role is ideal for someone who is highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to work both independently and as part of a team while handling a variety of responsibilities.

This position reports to the Missouri State Public Defender Deputy Division Director and is located at 2600 Grand Boulevard, Kansas City, MO.

Responsibilities - What you’ll do

• Serve as office manager, coordinating and overseeing daily administrative operations

• Reviewing applications for potential clients and assist with eligibility determinations in accordance with MSPD policies and procedures

• Provide administrative and clerical support to Deputy Division Director, District Defenders, Deputy District Defenders, and office staff

• Prepare letters, memos, reports, and other documents using various software programs

• Coordinate and schedule logistics for court reporters, expert witnesses, and other case-related needs

• Maintain filing systems and ensure proper records retention and timely archiving

• Track office expenditures and assist in monitoring the local office budget

• Oversee purchasing of office supplies in accordance with MSPD policies and budget guidelines

• Coordinate maintenance and repair of office equipment and manage replacement of non-functioning items

• Manage and support special projects, including serving as a project manager when needed

• Act as a liaison with MSPD departments, courts, vendors, and external agencies

• Handle confidential and sensitive information with discretion

• Collaborate with colleagues across the Missouri State Public Defender System

• Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications - All you need for success

• High school diploma or equivalent required

• One year of professional administrative or office management experience involving supervision or high-level administrative duties, or five years of progressively responsible clerical or office experience

• Post-secondary education may substitute for required experience on a month-for-month basis

Preferred skills and abilities:

• Working knowledge of office practices, procedures, and equipment

• Proficiency with computer systems and software, including word processing and spreadsheets

• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage and maintain records and filing systems

• Ability to prepare reports, track data, and perform basic business math computations

• Ability to supervise staff and coordinate office functions

• Strong attention to detail and ability to review documents for accuracy and completeness

• Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines

• Effective communication and interpersonal skills

• Ability to exercise sound judgment, discretion, and maintain confidentiality

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment

Job Details - More reasons to love this position

This is a full-time position based in Kansas City. The successful candidate will receive competitive compensation and State of Missouri benefits that include a defined pension plan, generous amounts of leave and holiday time, and eligibility for health insurance coverage. Learn more about benefits at https://publicdefender.mo.gov/employment/working-for-mspd/benefits/ Your total compensation is more than the dollars you receive in your paycheck. To help demonstrate the value of working for the State of Missouri, we have created an interactive Total Compensation Calculator. This tool provides a comprehensive view of benefits and more that are offered to prospective employees. The Total Compensation Calculator and other applicant resources can be found https://pers.oa.mo.gov/applicants

The salary listed reflects the base pay rate. Verified prior state service, subject to applicable eligibility requirements, may increase total compensation.

Contact Details - If you have questions or require any accommodations to participate in the application or interview process please contact:

Human.Resources@mspd.mo.gov

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The State of Missouri is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to developing and maintaining a talented workforce.