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 provide legal support for department programs, including enforcement of occupational licensing requirements. The role handles the early 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 under attorney guidance and within the limits of the paralegal role. The position supports fair, lawful, and efficient case resolution by keeping case records complete and reliable and helping matters progress on schedule. It works alongside attorneys, compliance staff, investigators, licensing staff, and other case participants, while protecting confidential information. The position reports to the Compliance, Investigation, & Data Manager. Employees must reside in Montana. Work/life balance options such as hybrid schedules or partial telework may be available within the state of Montana.

Requirements

Demonstrated experience in document-heavy legal or case support work, including organizing records, communicating clearly, and managing deadlines; relevant experience may be 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.
Previous 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, and follow through without losing important details.
Ability to recognize when attorney direction is needed, flag record gaps, and raise urgent issues.
Ability to communicate respectfully and effectively with people in different roles and perspectives.
Ability to take ownership of assigned work and show curiosity and willingness to learn unfamiliar legal procedures and information systems.

Nice To Haves

A degree in paralegal studies, legal studies, criminal justice, public administration, or a related field may complement relevant professional experience; it does not replace the demonstrated skills and competencies required. Equivalent combinations of education and directly related experience will be considered.

Responsibilities

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

Benefits

Work/life balance, with hybrid schedules or partial telework potentially available within Montana.
38 paid days off per year, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
Up to 15 days of military leave with full pay.
Longevity raises with continuous service, as well as negotiated market increases and state statutory raises.
Health, dental, vision, and life insurance coverage; flexible spending accounts; and an employee assistance program.
Free telehealth and access to free employee medical clinics through the medical plan.
Choice between two retirement plans with an employer contribution of 8.73%–9.07% of annual salary; an optional 457(b) deferred compensation plan is also available.
Employment with the State of Montana may qualify 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).
Quality of life in Montana, including year-round recreational opportunities and a high-quality education system and variety of entertainment.