Paralegal 1

State of Montana•Helena, MT

About The Position

The Montana Department of Labor & Industry’s Office of Legal Services is hiring a Paralegal 1 to support occupational licensing enforcement and criminal prosecution work. The role handles the initial stages of licensing matters, from opening and assessing a case through the first notice that a complaint has been filed. The paralegal may also help attorneys prepare notices after cause findings and support criminal prosecutions. Working with attorney guidance, compliance staff, and investigators, the position helps keep cases accurate, complete, fair, and on schedule. It reports to the Compliance, Investigation, & Data Manager. The role is based in Montana, and State of Montana employees must reside within the state. Hybrid schedules or partial telework may be available within Montana. Applicants must submit an online application with a cover letter and resume marked as “RELEVANT.”

Requirements

Demonstrated experience in document-heavy legal or case support work, including organizing records, communicating clearly, and managing deadlines; relevant experience may come from legal, administrative, regulatory, investigative, or similar work.
Ability to perform paralegal work under the supervision of a licensed attorney and within the limits of that role.
Experience tracking multiple cases, files, or projects with competing deadlines while keeping records accurate and complete.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, including experience preparing clear correspondence or summaries for varied audiences.
Experience handling confidential records and sensitive information, following privacy protocols, and using sound judgment.
Proficiency with Microsoft Outlook, including email and calendar, and other office software, with the ability to learn and use case management or electronic records systems.
Ability to write clearly and accurately and carefully review documents, records, and facts for completeness and consistency.
Ability to organize multiple matters, track deadlines, follow through, recognize when attorney direction is needed, flag gaps in records, and raise urgent issues.
Ability to handle sensitive information discreetly, maintain reliable and well-organized case records, communicate respectfully with people in different roles, and take ownership of assigned work while learning unfamiliar legal procedures and information systems.
Equivalent combinations of education and directly related experience will be considered.

Nice To Haves

A degree in paralegal studies, legal studies, criminal justice, public administration, or a related field may add to relevant professional experience.

Responsibilities

Organize incoming occupational licensing case materials, set up and maintain accurate files, identify missing documents, and record key dates and next steps.
Prepare and coordinate initial notices and requests for response; track delivery, response periods, follow-up, and incoming responses; and raise questions or issues with the responsible attorney.
Keep documents and case information current in office systems, organize evidence, track deadlines, and prepare short case status updates for the team.
Assemble and review records supporting cause findings, identify factual or documentary gaps, and help attorneys draft and revise notices, subject to attorney review and approval.
Organize investigative materials and exhibits, help prepare filings and hearing materials, track deadlines, and share case information with prosecuting attorneys and investigators.
Coordinate with licensing staff, attorneys, investigators, and other case participants to gather information and move matters forward while protecting confidential information.

Benefits

Hybrid schedules or partial telework may be available within Montana.
38 paid days off a year, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
Up to 15 days of military leave with full pay.
Longevity raises with continuous service, negotiated market increases, and state statutory raises.
Health, dental, vision, and life insurance coverage.
Flexible spending accounts.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
Free telehealth and access to free employee medical clinics through the medical plan.
Choice between two retirement plans with an employer contribution between 8.73% and 9.07% of annual salary; an optional 457(b) deferred compensation plan is also available.
Potential eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness.
Career progression, training opportunities, and room for professional growth.
State employee discounts at various businesses across the state.
The position may be covered by a Voluntary Employee Beneficiary Association (VEBA).