We currently have a great opportunity for a Word Processing Operator for our Los Angeles office. The Word Processing Operator will be responsible for preparing documents and correspondence from verbal or written instructions, dictation, shorthand notes, rough drafts or other materials. This role requires knowledge of legal terminology and document formats such as leases, briefs, pleadings, complaints, motions, contracts, and agreements. This position requires the ability to work effectively within a team structure, possess great communication skills, and have the ability to shift gears at a moment’s notice.
Cox, Castle & Nicholson LLP was founded in Los Angeles in 1968, with the goal of providing superior and comprehensive legal services to businesses, institutions, and individuals in all aspects of the real estate, finance, and construction industries. Cox, Castle & Nicholson LLP is now one of the largest full-service law firms specializing in real estate in the United States and has over 140 transactional and litigation attorneys in our Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Francisco offices.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Expertise knowledge of Microsoft Word, Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint and time entry software and other software programs as needed including client related software.
- Clean-up/Input documents such as agreements, pleadings, contracts, memos, leases, briefs, motions, complaints, spreadsheets and presentations onto system using Microsoft Office. Legal terminology knowledge is required. Must style and format documents to Cox, Castle & Nicholson specifications.
- Performs a wide variety of typing assignments which may require some research to complete; operates personal computer to draft, edit, revise, tabulate and print letters, tables, reports and other materials.
- Proofread and correct material for correct grammar, spelling, punctuation, format, syntax and content.
- Take help desk calls from staff and attorneys.
- Prepare contact and distribution lists, prepares labels and envelopes for large distribution and mailings.
- Transcription of legal dictation and timesheets in timekeeping software.
- Send documents out via messenger, FedEx or overnight courier as needed.
- Operates standard office equipment such as copiers, computers, scanners, calculators, phones, duplicating and fax machines.
- Performs related essential functions as required.
- Assists with special projects and other duties as assigned.
Education and/or Experience
- High school diploma or equivalent with additional training/experience in word processing and computers preferred.
- Three (3) years prior legal experience required.
- Requires knowledge of Microsoft Office and knowledge of legal phrases and terminology.
Technical Skills
- Knowledge of Microsoft Word required, Outlook, iManage, DTE, PowerPoint and Excel a plus.
- Typing speed of 70 wpm.
- Ability to file alphabetically and numerically.
- Accuracy in grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
- Required skill in the use of dictaphones and transcribing equipment.
Additional Abilities
- Effective verbal communication skills including the ability to interact effectively with firm personnel at all levels with a high degree of professionalism.
- Ability to multi-task and prioritize assignments in order to meet deadlines.
- Takes initiative to identify opportunities for improvements to own work.
- Supports firm policies and procedures in all areas.
- Ability to use discretion and diplomacy in giving out information and in referring and directing callers and visitors.
- Excellent organizational, tracking and follow-up skills.
- Identifies problems or deviations from standard practices and effectively brings to the attention of supervisors for resolution.
- Ability to adapt to new systems, processes and procedures.
- Ability to respond promptly and consistently to request from attorneys, clients, vendors, and staff.
- Maintains a positive, courteous and professional demeanor.
- Ability to operate office equipment including computers, photocopy, scanning and fax equipment.
- Ability to read and comprehend instructions, correspondence and memos. Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition and grammar. Ability to create, compose and edit written materials.
- Ability to work under pressure, multi-task, and prioritize work assignments to meet deadlines.
- Strong time management skills.
- Ability to maintain composure during challenging situations occurring as a result of workloads and deadlines.
Work Environment and Physical Requirements
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use a telephone, tape transcriber (use of leg and foot to control), computer keyboard and mouse, reach with hand and arms, talk and listen. Specific vision abilities required by this position include close vision, distance vision, and depth perception.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to sit for at least seven hours per day.
- Ability to periodically/intermittently throughout the day stand, stoop, and reach.
- Repetitive motions: substantial movements (motions) of the wrists, hands, fingers and/or leg/foot.
- Ability to work independently and sort multiple priorities.
- Occasional lifting/moving of files or boxes weighing up to 30 lbs.
- Occasional required to bend, crouch or kneel.
Compensation
- Salary is based upon experience and education; we're targeting between $70,000-$80,000 annual
- We offer comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, and vision as well as 401(k) and generous vacation time.
Requirements
- High school diploma
- Minimum of 3 years of legal word processing experience
- Knowledge of Styles and document conversion processes required
- Familiarity with dictaphones and other transcribing equipment and software
- Must be proficient in Word, Outlook, and Excel
- Typing speed of 70 WPM
- Shift: 9 am to 5 pm
- Flexibility to work overtime as needed
Compensation
- Salary is based upon experience and education; we're targeting between $70,000-$80,000 annual
- We offer comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, and vision as well as 401(k) and generous vacation time.
Cox, Castle & Nicolson is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Cox, Castle & Nicolson provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
Cox, Castle & Nicolson will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the City of Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance (FCIHO). Privacy Policy (coxcastle.com)