Monday, 2 May 2022
Position vacant: Research Officer
The ACT Law Society is looking to employ a Research Officer to provide secretariat and legal research support to the Society’s special interest committees, which contribute to the Society’s member engagement and policy/advocacy activities.
The Research Officer is employed on a part-time basis, preferably three days (21 hours) per week on a Monday, Tuesday and Friday throughout the year. Successful candidates should have a professional presentation, excellent written and verbal communications skills, and strong research, administration and organisational skills. The role would suit students working towards a law qualification. Applications close Wednesday 11 May, for immediate start.
Position description
About the ACT Law Society
The ACT Law Society is the peak body for legal practitioners in the ACT. The Society represents, advances, and defends the interests of an independent legal profession in the ACT. We also protect the public interest in the ACT system of justice through efficient regulation of the profession.
We are a small, dedicated and supportive team of staff working with our more than 3,000 members across all parts of the legal profession in the ACT. The Society provides a range of services for members, including providing information resources and guidance, and delivering a range of continuing professional development and networking activities throughout the year.
About the role
The Research Officer provides secretariat and legal policy and research support to a number of the Society’s special interest/segment committees. The Society’s committees contribute to the Society’s member engagement and policy and advocacy activities. Currently there are 14 committees.
Main duties/responsibilities of position
- Provide secretariat support for designated committees, including scheduling and attending meetings (face-to-face and/or by Zoom) and the timely preparation and distribution of agenda, minutes and committee reports
- Monitor changes in the legislative and policy environment and working with the relevant Committee Chair, CEO and/or President, as appropriate, to identify issues relevant for committee consideration
- Undertake research on issues identified by committees or by the Society Secretariat and preparing briefing papers
- Contribute to the preparation of submissions to government and other inquiries, correspondence and other policy or guidance materials
- Provide support to other areas of the Society, as directed and as necessary in a small team
- Perform other duties as directed and necessary for the proper performance of the role
Skills, experience & personal qualities
Essential:
- Either hold an appropriate qualification in law or be working towards one
- Excellent interpersonal and written and verbal communication skills
- Demonstrated personal integrity and attention to detail
- Pro-active and highly resourceful
- Demonstrated administration, organisation and time management skills with ability to work to tight deadlines
- Ability to cultivate productive working relationships
- Ability to work independently and also collaboratively within a small team environment
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office, email and web-based applications
Desirable:
- Experience preparing agendas and taking minutes
- Experience in a legal, policy or research environment
- Experience with Zoom meeting platform
Performance goals
- Complete administration/secretariat and research tasks on time
- Demonstrate initiative by monitoring the legal/policy environment and identifying opportunities for committee engagement
- Deal with committee members, other members and other employees professionally at all times
- Contribute to a workplace culture that is consistent with the Society’s vision and objects
- Work in a manner consistent with the Society’s policies and procedures
How to apply
Applications should be made to mail@actlawsociety.asn.au with “RESEARCH OFFICER” in the subject line. Applications must include a current CV, details of two referees and a two-page statement outlining your suitability for the position. Enquiries about the role can be made via the same email or to (02) 6274 0300.
Closing date for applications is Wednesday 11 May 2022.
Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
