Law Clerk for the Tax Court's Magistrate Division

State of Oregon • Salem, OR

3d • $84,501 - $97,822 • Onsite

About The Position

The Oregon Judicial Department is hiring a post-graduate Law Clerk for the Oregon Tax Court’s Magistrate Division in Salem, Oregon. This is a full-time, limited-duration position, typically for two years, with an anticipated start date in January 2027; the start date is negotiable. The clerk will work with all three magistrates and may also work with the judge and Regular Division staff counsel. The role provides an opportunity to develop analytical, legal research, and writing skills while contributing to the resolution of cases and projects supporting the court as a whole.

The clerk will help prepare reasoned decisions on complex legal issues by researching and writing memoranda and decision drafts, discussing legal issues with judicial officers and staff counsel, and editing drafts for factual accuracy, clear legal analysis, and proper citation. The position also offers exposure to trial-court litigation, including opportunities to serve as bailiff and observe arguments and trials. Other work may include court rulemaking and procedural research, updates to court rules, and assistance with the law student externship program.

The Oregon Tax Court’s mission is to impartially resolve disputes between taxpayers and tax administrators, accurately apply Oregon law in written decisions for public guidance, and make court services accessible to all. The department emphasizes public service, access to justice, diversity, inclusion, teamwork, and high standards of ethics and confidentiality.

The position is based onsite at the Oregon Tax Court. Remote work may be available after training, at the supervisor’s discretion. The regular schedule is 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday; occasional after-hours work may be required. The role is FLSA-exempt and not eligible for overtime compensation. The salary range is $84,501–$97,822 annually, with a 4% cost-of-living increase effective January 1, 2027. Salary offers depend on education and experience.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor degree or equivalent from an ABA-accredited law school by the anticipated start date.
• Ability to learn and apply the law, think critically, and write well.
• Ability to collaborate and work effectively as part of a team.
• Ability to safeguard controversial or confidential information and uphold high ethical standards.
• Familiarity, experience, and comfort using current technology tools and office software for work, research, and communications.
• Ability to sit for long periods at a computer or desk while reading and researching hard-copy and electronic materials.
• Ability to lift 10 pounds.

Nice To Haves

• Oregon State Bar membership is not required; law clerks who are bar members may be eligible for payment of Oregon State Bar dues up to the cost of those dues.
• Specific tax training is not required.
• Bilingual skills, including ASL, may qualify for a 5% allowance if the candidate passes a skills test and is assigned to use those skills on the job.

Responsibilities

• Research legal issues and prepare memoranda and draft decisions for the magistrates and judge.
• Discuss legal issues and receive feedback from judicial officers and staff counsel.
• Edit draft decisions for factual accuracy, clear and concise legal analysis, and supporting authority; apply court style guides and Bluebook citation format.
• Assist with the court’s case-resolution process and, as applicable, serve as bailiff and observe arguments and trials.
• Assist with court-wide projects, including rulemaking, research on court procedures, and updates to court rules.
• Likely assist with the court’s law student externship program.
• Safeguard confidential information and uphold professional and ethical standards.

Benefits

• OJD pays 95% to 99% of medical insurance premiums for full-time employees, including mental health coverage.
• 10 paid holidays, 2 floating holidays, and 3 personal business days.
• Separate paid sick and vacation leave.
• Optional insurance plans and flexible spending plans.
• Potential payment of Oregon State Bar dues for eligible law clerks who are bar members.
• A 5% bilingual skills allowance for qualifying employees assigned to use those skills.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree