Paralegal/Investigator

The State of Montana has a decentralized human resources (HR) system. Each agency is responsible for its own recruitment and selection. Anyone who needs a reasonable accommodation in the application or hiring process should contact the agency's HR staff identified on the job listing or by dialing the Montana Relay at 711. Montana Job Service Offices also offer services including assistance with submitting an online application.

State government does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, childbirth or medical conditions related to pregnancy or childbirth, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, marital status, creed, political beliefs or affiliation, veteran status, military service, retaliation, or any other factor not related to merit and qualifications of an employee or applicant.

Why should you keep reading and consider working here?
We know you have other work options, but we ask you to consider working with us at the State of Montana Department of Administration.  Our foundation of success is having effective working relationships, built on mutual trust and respect.  We will challenge you to be the best you can be and will work hard to provide a work environment that allows you to succeed.  

What is this career opportunity?
We are looking for a Paralegal/Investigator interested in investigating personal injury, civil rights and property damage claims as well as legal research and analysis in an attempt to evaluate liability and resolve claims filed against State employees and agencies.  The incumbent provides litigation support for the defense of tort and civil rights lawsuits that may involve multiple parties, complex legal issues, and damages of millions of dollars.  These lawsuits include assault, defamation, malicious prosecution, wrongful imprisonment, personal injury, infliction of emotional distress, strict liability, negligence, wrongful death, wrongful termination, and civil rights actions. The lawsuits involve numerous state agencies and are filed in state and federal courts.
In this position, you will be afforded the opportunity to telework. However, there will be required weekly in-office day(s) in Helena.  Specific conditions will be outlined as part of the job offer and must adhere to state policy.

What are we looking for?
Education and Experience\: 
•    Bachelor’s degree in Paralegal studies or related field; AND
•    3 years’ legal and investigative experience; OR
•    Alternate combinations of education and experience will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Competencies\: 
Knowledge of:
•    The theories of tort law and applications required to appropriately defend a tort case
•    The litigation process and case procedures
•    Investigative techniques, legal concepts of state law, policies, administrative regulations, and case law
Ability to:
•    Perform legal research using law libraries or through the use of computerized research 
•    Proofread, check citations, format and file documents
•    Evaluate and extract complex legal issues and facts from a wide variety of sources and documents
•    Recognize defenses or identify alternate courses of action applicable to the concepts of a given case
•    Work independently, organizing time to meet varying demands of position which may include extremely short deadlines, complex and detailed projects
•    Act with initiative, common sense and good judgment 
•    Be accountable for decisions and actions
•    Handle confidential and sensitive material
•    Work as an effective member of a team and individually
•    Persuade and influence

Does this sound like you? 
Please tell us how and why by submitting your resume, cover letter, and three professional business references.  (Please Note\: You do not need to complete the “work experience” or the “education & certifications” portion of the application process in our recruiting system.  You only need to upload the requested documentation.)

Other important information to be aware of.
•    Only online applications are accepted.  By applying online, you are able to receive updates and monitor the status of your application.
What can you expect from us in return for your hard work?
    Look here to see the additional benefits!  They include:
o    Work/life Balance
o    Health Coverage
o    Retirement plans
o    Paid Vacation and Sick Leave and Holidays
o    And more…
    Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) – Employment with the State of Montana may qualify you to receive student loan forgiveness under the PSLF.  Look here to learn more and see if you may qualify!