Office Associate II (Research Assistant)

Opening Date: July 24, 2024

Closing Date: August 7, 2024

Job Class Code: 0677

Grade: 1

*Pursuant to 5 MRS § 196 the salary for this position has been set by the Office of the Attorney General

Salary: $35,984.00 - $51,812.80/year

Bargaining Unit: MSEA-A, Administrative Services

Position #006000006

The Office of the Attorney General, Administrative Services Division, is seeking an Office Associate II (Research Assistant). This position provides front desk coverage and administrative support to the Office. This position has extensive interactions with the public. The ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, is crucial. 

This position provides office and administrative support work performing complex, varied office support tasks often requiring established skill sets which include a solid knowledge of modern office practices and office equipment necessary to perform diverse clerical functions. Responsibilities require independent decision-making on the appropriate processes to follow, information to process, and actions to take in accordance with standard procedures. 

The Administrative Services Division provides human resources, information technology, finance, and accounting services for the Office of the Attorney General. Hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

 Office of the Attorney General

Representative Tasks:

  • Answer incoming telephone inquiries, determine nature of business and direct caller to appropriate contact
  • Receive and greet visitors and determine customer needs
  • Correspond with the public to receive/supply information and/or complaints
  • Create and use varied correspondence formats and compose standard business correspondence
  • Create spreadsheets and perform data management
  • Proofread and/or edit letters, memos, reports, and other various documents
  • Establish and/or maintain computerized and/or manual filing systems
  • Prepare and scan records
  • Type agendas and maintain calendars and schedules
  • Query for data via telephone, computer, or written/verbal communication
  • Gather and compile information for reports, records, etc.
  • Receive, open, sort, weigh and route incoming and outgoing mail/packages
  • Monitor, requisition, purchase and maintain inventory and supplies
  • Operate modern standard office equipment
  • Provide general information regarding agency activities
  • Maintain office visitor log

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

  • Excellent communication skills, oral and written
  • Excellent customer service skills
  • Excellent telephone etiquette skills
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite
  • Ability to develop and use computerized formats
  • Ability to perform clerical and office support duties
  • Ability to effectively present information to individuals
  • Ability to exercise good judgment in appraising situations and making decisions/recommendations

Minimum Requirements

(Entry level knowledges, skills, and/or abilities may be acquired through, BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO the following coursework/training and/or experience.)

Training, education, or experience in office and administrative support work that demonstrates 1) competency in applying a solid knowledge of modern office practices to perform complex, varied office support tasks, and 2) the ability to use independent decision-making on the appropriate processes to follow, information to process, and actions to take in accordance with standard procedures. 

Strong computer skills, including proficiency with Microsoft Office programs, are preferred.

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

If you are interested in applying for this position, prepare a cover letter highlighting your experience and qualifications that make you a strong candidate for the position and the knowledge, skills and abilities required. 

Include resume, three references and complete the online direct hire application.

The Office of the Attorney General is not responsible for late receipt of applications due to electronic transmission malfunctions. Job offer to new hire is conditional upon verification of credentials, criminal records, and driver’s license check, and professional license requirements if applicable. Please direct all questions via email to Shirley Ferland  or call 207-626-8595.

BENEFITS

No matter where you work across Maine state government, you find employees who embody our state motto—"Dirigo" or "I lead"—as they provide essential services to Mainers every day. We believe in supporting our workforce's health and wellbeing with a valuable total compensation package, including: 

  • Work-Life Balance – Rest is essential. Take time for yourself using 13 paid holidays, 12 days of sick leave, and 3+ weeks of vacation leave Vacation leave accrual increases with years of service, and overtime-exempt employees receive personal leave. 
  • Health Insurance Coverage– The State of Maine pays 85%-100% of employee-only premiums ($9,893.52-$11,057.52 annual value), depending on salary. Use this chart to find the premium costs for you and your family, including the percentage of dependent coverage paid by the State.
  • Health Insurance Premium Credit– Participation decreases employee-only premiums by 5%. Visit the Office of Employee Health and Wellness for more information about program requirements. 
  • Dental Insurance– The State of Maine pays 100% of employee-only dental premiums ($350.40 annual value). 
  • Retirement Plan– The State of Maine contributes 13.16% of pay to the Maine Public Employees Retirement System (MainePERS), on behalf of the employee.
  • Gym Membership Reimbursement– Improve overall health with regular exercise and receive up to $40 per month to29this expense. 
  • Health and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts– Set aside money pre-tax to help pay for out-of-pocket health care expenses and/or daycare expenses. 
  • Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness– The State of Maine is a qualified employer for this federal program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid office. 
  • Living Resources Program – Navigate challenging work and life situations with our employee assistance program.
  • Parental leave is one of the most important benefits for any working parent. All employees who are welcoming a child—including fathers and adoptive parents—receive six weeks of fully paid parental leave. Additional, unpaid leave may also be available, under the Family and Medical Leave Act.
  • Voluntary Deferred Compensation– Save additional pre-tax funds for retirement in a MaineSaves 457(b) account through payroll deductions. 
  • Learn about additional wellness benefits for State employees from the Office of Employee Health and Wellness. 

Maine State Government and the Office of the Attorney General are Equal Opportunity employers. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request.