Administrative Assistant

Administrative Assistant

The Honorable Thomas Rode of the Ninth Circuit Court in Charleston, under the South Carolina Judicial Branch, is seeking a professional and dependable Administrative Assistant.

This role is an integral part of the Judge's chambers, providing high-level administrative and secretarial support under the direct supervision of the Circuit Court Judge. The Administrative Assistant ensures the efficiency and professionalism of daily operations, requiring the use of individual discretion in interpreting and applying office policies and procedures.

As a vital member of the South Carolina Judicial Branch, the Administrative Assistant contributes to the fair and effective administration of justice by supporting courtroom functions, coordinating with attorneys and court staff, managing communications and records, and maintaining the Judge's schedule and official reports.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities of the Position

• Answer phones, collect and log mail, organize office files, draft forms, schedule conference calls and hearings, and take minutes at meetings for committees the Judge participates in.
• Organize and manage inmate correspondence, attorney communications, and attorney protection requests, act as liaison between the Judge and attorneys. Review and log incoming/outgoing orders, ex parte letters, bench warrants, and motion/order cover sheets. Coordinate with Clerk of Court offices statewide, Solicitor's Office, Public Defender's Office, and Probation/Parole Offices.
• Manage courtroom readiness, including preparing documents, organizing the Judge's calendar, and completing required reports such as travel vouchers, MUA reports, and annual judicial reports. Maintain and assist with annual office inventory.
• Assist visiting Judges with administrative and logistical needs such as parking, key cards, accommodations, and office orientation.
• Oversee the Law Clerk application process, provide orientation and training to new clerks, and assist with technological needs, including coordination with I.T. staff.
• Ensure seamless office operations when the Judge is away from the county.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum and Additional Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Three (3) years of administrative or secretarial work experience.
• Proficiency in computer and word processing programs, including Microsoft Office Suite.

Preferred Qualifications

• Administrative or clerical experience in a court or legal setting.

Required Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Other Characteristics

• Knowledge of office management principles, policies, and practices.
• Strong command of grammar, spelling, and clerical formats.
• Knowledge of bookkeeping practices.
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills with the ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills with Judges, attorneys, staff, and the public.
• Strong discretion in interpreting and applying policies and procedures.
• Consistent punctuality and reliability required.
• Works independently under the general supervision of a Circuit Court Judge.
• Must exercise initiative, judgment, and discretion in handling sensitive and confidential matters.
• Expected to keep the Judge informed of problems, concerns, or recommendations

The South Carolina Judicial Branch offers an exceptional benefits package for FTE positions that include:

• Health, Dental, Vision, Long Term Disability, and Life Insurance for Employee, Spouse, and Children;
• State Retirement Plan and Deferred Compensation Programs (Temporary positions have option to enroll);
• 15 days paid annual (vacation) leave per year;
• 15 days paid sick leave per year;
• Option to designate 10 days of earned paid sick leave per year as family sick leave;
• 13 paid state holidays;
• Workers' Compensation Benefits.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The South Carolina Judicial Branch is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender, pregnancy, age, or disability.