Client Services Coordinator Intern Part-Time (Public Defender Dept.)

Hourly Starting Rate -$15.53

POSITION SUMMARY

The Client Services Coordinator (CSC) part-time intern in the Public Defender’s Office works directly with the Chief Public Defender, 1st Assistant Public Defender, Assistant Public Defenders, Client Services Coordinators, and management staff by performing administrative duties. The CSC intern observes and helps with case investigation, witness interviewing, preparing mitigation reports, and aiding in evidence analysis. Additionally, the Intern will aid in the translation of evidence from Spanish to English.

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES

Essential Functions

The duties and responsibilities of this position include, but are not

necessarily limited to

• Communicates with attorneys, client services coordinators, and clients, and

other County agencies concerning Public Defender clients, including but not limited to investigation of cases and client mitigations

• Maintains a calendar of significant dates and keeps statistical records

regarding the number of clients aided by CSC staff;

• Corresponds with the necessary information for the representation of

individuals deemed eligible for Public Defender Representation

• Observes and aids in the investigation of client cases;
• Observes and aids in the preparation of client Mitigation reports completed

by CSC staff

• Prepares numerous types of computer-generated forms and correspondence

necessary for the representation of Public Defender clients, specifically involving language interpretation.

• If able to communicate in Spanish, communicates with Spanish-speaking Public

Defender applicants and clients.

• Operates various office equipment such as, fax, copier, and paper shredder.
• Answers telephone calls and directs questions to the appropriate person.
• Assists CSC personnel as necessary.

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Actively enrolled in an undergraduate program at an accredited college or

university seeking a degree in Political Science, Psychology, Criminal Justice, Languages, or a related field of study.

• Prior experience utilizing computer database programs to retrieve and

manipulate information, as well as word processing experience.

• Prior customer service experience with an emphasis on heavy contact with both

the public and all levels of professionals, both face-to-face and by telephone.

• Any equivalent combination of experience and training that provides the

required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

MINIMUM KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Successful completion of employment background check, including NCIC criminal

check.

• Able to communicate effectively using the English language, both orally and

in writing.

• Ability to communicate in Spanish preferred.
• Knowledgeable in the use of multi-line telephone equipment.
• Possess basic understanding of word processing software (Microsoft Word

preferred) and database concepts.

• Understanding of office methods, rules, practices, and procedures.
• Capable of understanding and carrying out oral and written directions.
• Able to maintain cooperative working relationships with those contacted in

the performance of duties, including all other employees.

• Tact, discretion, and professionalism in dealing with members of the public.
• Ability to handle stress.
• Physical presence in the office is required.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Work involves walking, talking, hearing, using hands to handle or feel objects, tools, or controls, and reaching with hands and arms. Vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus. Physical lifting of multiple files and file boxes as necessary. The maximum weight of boxes is 15 pounds, which is usually required approximately once per week.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT

Work is performed in a standard cubicle, individual office, and courtroom environment. The position may require working in moderately noisy to loud environments, including cubicles and communal workspaces, and participating in frequent collaborative team meetings. The work environment may be fast-paced and include frequent interruptions, changing priorities, and interactions with employees, the public, and other stakeholders.

This position description serves as a guideline for communicating the essential functions and other information about the position to the applicant/employee. It is not intended to create a binding employment contract nor cover every detail of the position, and may be changed where appropriate.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

The County of Berks 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, political affiliation or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

About Us

Berks County is a combination of rich farm country, industry, beautiful parks, entertainment, and top-notch educational institutions. Whether you are interested in County services, the availability of our parks, tax rates, or other county information, this is the place to start.

Mission Statement

It is the mission of Berks County government and all County employees to administer and deliver services to the citizens of the County in the most effective, efficient and professional manner possible within the constraints of the financial resources available.