Summary: Plays a crucial role in supporting legal operations and ensuring compliance with laws and regulations. Duties include legal research and analysis, document preparation and review, administrative support, compliance and risk management and legal support services. Works closely with attorneys and government officials to provide legal assistance, conduct research, and prepare documents related to various legal matters affecting the Township. Work is performed under general direction from the Township Attorney who will review performance for conformance to departmental policies and procedures.

Duties: Legal Research and Analysis: Conducts thorough legal research on statutes, regulations, case law, and legal precedents relevant to Township’s operations; analyzes and interprets legal documents to provide insights and recommendations to attorneys and decision-makers; stays updated on changes in laws and regulations impacting local government and provides summaries and updates as necessary. • Document Preparation and Review: Drafts and reviews legal documents such as contracts, agreements, ordinances, resolutions, and legal correspondence; assists attorneys in preparing for hearings, trials, and other legal proceedings by organizing case materials and drafting pleadings and motions; ensures the accuracy and compliance of legal documents with relevant laws, regulations, and internal policies. • Administrative Support: Provides administrative support to attorneys, including managing calendars, scheduling meetings, and maintaining legal files and records; assists in coordinating and facilitating communication between various departments, agencies, and external parties involved in legal matters; prepares reports, presentations, and other materials as required by legal staff and government officials; manages and processes invoices/vouchers; assists in clerical and related work; creates and maintains filing system; answers phones for Law Department, take messages for attorneys and provides responses to routine questions; handles and secures confidential and privileged information; knows and explains Township policies when necessary • Compliance and Risk Management: Assists in monitoring compliance with laws, regulations, and policies applicable to the Township’s activities; identifies potential legal risks and liabilities and collaborates with attorneys and relevant stakeholders to develop strategies for mitigation; assists in investigations and inquiries related to legal matters, including gathering evidence and preparing documentation • Legal Support Services: Provides support during litigation processes, including document discovery, witness preparation, and trial logistics; assists in alternative dispute resolution processes, such as mediation and arbitration, by preparing materials and coordinating proceedings; collaborates with external legal counsel, consultants, and experts as necessary to support the Township’s legal objectives.

Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in paralegal studies, legal studies, or related field; certification as a paralegal preferred. Previous experience working as a paralegal in a legal environment, preferably in government or public sector. Strong knowledge of legal research methods and databases and proficiency in using legal software and office productivity tools. The successful candidate will possess excellent written and verbal communication skills, the ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment, and attention to detail along with strong organizational skills. Knowledge of local government operations and regulations is a plus. Must pass a full criminal history investigation such as to certify ability to access confidential State and National police information systems; may require off hours availability as situations warrant.

Salary: $42,000.00 – $93,000.00 per year, plus health benefits.

Apply: Please apply online through the Employment/Human Resources section of the Township of Montclair website at: www.montclairnjusa.org.

Closing Date: This job posting will remain open until filled; the Township reserves the right to offer the position at any time during the recruitment process.

Montclair is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $42,000.00 - $93,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Disability insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Day shift
• Monday to Friday

Education:

• Bachelor's (Required)

Experience:

• Paralegal: 1 year (Required)

License/Certification:

• Paralegal Certificate (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• Montclair, NJ 07042 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Montclair, NJ 07042: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person