Administrative Assistant

The Office of the Federal Public Defender for the Eastern District of Virginia is accepting applications for an Administrative Assistant position in our Norfolk office. Pursuant to the Criminal Justice Act, 18 U.S.C. § 3006A, the office provides legal representation to indigent defendants in federal criminal cases and related matters.

Pay is only part of the generous total compensation package you will receive while working for the federal Judiciary. We offer employees a diverse group of benefit programs and family‑friendly flexibilities to meet the needs of you and your family. A generous benefits package is available to full‑time permanent court employees including:

• Paid vacation and sick leave
• Paid parental leave
• 12 paid federal holidays per year
• Optional participation in Federal Employees Health Benefits plans (health, dental and vision)
• Federal Employees Group Life Insurance
• Flexible Benefits Program
• Long‑Term Care Insurance
• Health Care Reimbursement (HCRA) and Dependent Care Reimbursement (HCRA)
• Public transportation subsidy
  
  Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
• Optional participation in Thrift Savings Plan (up to 5% employer matched contributions)
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness program pursuant to the term of the PSLF

The successful applicant will have a working knowledge of law office operations and is proficient in organizing and prioritizing their own work; typing, data entry, email, and report generation; using standard office equipment (telephones, copiers, fax machines, scanners, calculators, etc.); can follow detailed instructions and multitask; and can demonstrate experience in operating a multi‑line telephone efficiently. The position requires proficiency in a wide range of programs, including Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel and other office automation products.

The ideal candidate will effectively communicate with colleagues, outside agencies, court personnel, and the public, to include our clients and client families; have a demonstrated work history of dependability, initiative, and responsibility; have high ethical standards; be a team player; and have an interest in indigent criminal defense and compassion for our work and clients. A successful candidate will demonstrate the ability to consistently exercise sound judgment, act with diplomacy, and maintain confidentiality.

Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States.

The physical demands of the position are those required to successfully perform the duties described above. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions. The Administrative Assistant will spend most of their time in an office environment consistent with our telework policy. The individual must occasionally lift and/or move 25–50 pounds. Travel may be necessary and a valid driver's license is preferred.