Judicial Operations Clerk-Small Claims (D5 Polk 112574)

Full Job Description

The Iowa Judicial Branch, in Polk County, seeks applicants for a Judicial Operations Clerk to perform the clerical support and customer service for efficient court operations and the integrity of court records.

The Small Claims Judicial Operations Clerk is responsible for processing and managing small claims filings and related case documents, including petitions, motions, amended petitions, appearances, answers, garnishments, dismissals, replevins, satisfactions, praecipes, applications to condemn funds, and electronic recording requests.

The role includes verifying accuracy of case information in court systems, ensuring filings are complete and properly signed, confirming payment of fees, updating litigant and attorney information, processing certified mail and returns of service, maintaining accurate case records, and routing documents to judges as required.

The clerk also handles financial transactions related to garnishments, satisfactions, and county checks, ensures compliance with court procedures, and provides assistance to the public, attorneys, and other court staff as needed.

The successful candidate will be able to learn and navigate court record-specific computer programs and technology.

This position will have the ability to professionally communicate in person and on the phone with a variety of court users.

The successful candidate will have keen attention to detail to maintain the accuracy and integrity of court records.

This position may occasionally travel to other counties within the judicial district.

What’s in it for you:

• Collaborative, positive professional work environment
• Opportunities to make a widespread difference in the Iowa communities
• Excellent benefits package
• Paid Holidays/Vacation/Sick Leave
• Iowa Public Employees’ Retirement System (IPERS) plan
• Employee discount program
• Employment with the Iowa Judicial Branch may qualify for the federal student loan repayment program.

The pay range for this position is $21.42 - $33.86 per hour. This is a contract-covered, FLSA non-exempt position. The starting salary for new state employees is expected to be at the base of the pay range. Adjustments may be made if the successful candidate has relevant experience.

Position classification is determined as the ‘best fit’ of the duties assigned to and performed by a position. This position is classified as a Judicial Operations Clerk as summarized below.

Summary

Perform customer service, clerical, and administrative work necessary for court operations.

Examples of Duties and Responsibilities

• Provide customer service by responding to inquiries from the general public, attorneys, and court employees.
• Assist court users with resources, equipment, and services.
• Perform routine court operations paper and electronic documentation tasks, and filing in accordance with established procedures.
• Review, process, update, and publish information, documents, files, orders, warrants, judgment notifications, and other materials for completeness and accuracy.
• Perform basic bookkeeping and accounting tasks, including cashier duties and processing.
• Assist courtroom preparations for appropriate proceedings, including electronic device setup and digital recording management software use.
• Provide office support such as maintaining organization, equipment, and supplies.
• Other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Familiarity and understanding of court operation support, record keeping, and filing.
• Basic computer database, software, and math skills.
• Ability to secure confidential data and maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to prioritize work and meet deadlines.
• Verbal and written communication skills.
• Attention to detail.
• Reliable transportation and the ability to travel.

The Iowa Judicial Branch is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer.

Applicants may review the Equal Employment Opportunity Utilization Report from the Iowa Judicial Branch website as part of our commitment to transparency and compliance with federal and state regulations.

Please go to www.iowacourts.gov and click on the Careers page.

This position is covered by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) with American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees, Iowa Council 61, AFL-CIO (AFSCME).

This is a non-merit position with the Iowa Judicial Branch. Candidates must follow the instructions in the “To Apply” section.

Positions in this class are exempt from the screening and referral requirements of the Iowa Department of Administrative Services – Human Resources Enterprise.

Candidates need to complete the NEOGOV application and attach a cover letter and resume. Final applicants are subjected to a criminal background check. The Iowa Judicial Branch is an E-Verify employer.

Qualifications

The incumbent must meet the minimum requirements to qualify for the position.

1. High school diploma (or high school equivalency diploma).
2. One (1) year of experience in customer service.

Education cannot be substituted for customer service experience.

Additional Information

May be designated to give bond per Iowa Code §602.8101.3

Additional Information

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in a court or legal environment, including familiarity with court procedures or legal terminology.
• Experience maintaining accurate and organized records
• Experience securing confidential information.