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The Office of the General Counsel (OGC) is the “in house” law office for the City Council and provides legal services to the City Council. OGC advises and provides guidance to Council Members and employees on legal matters including but not limited to those related to conflicts of interest, litigation, employment, parliamentary procedures, Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) requests, appointments, document retention, legislation, compliance with federal, state and local laws and regulations, and policies affecting the City Council and the City.

The Office of the General Counsel’s Information Governance Unit (“IGU”) helps establish policies, standards, and frameworks for managing the New York City Council’s (“Council”) information throughout its lifecycle. The unit ensures the Council’s compliance with the New York State Freedom of Information Law (“FOIL”), as well as the City’s record retention laws and policies. It also implements controls to safeguard the privacy of sensitive data. We are seeking a Senior Paralegal with knowledge of both digital and hard-copy records management, document review, and the use of databases to track records inventories.

SALARY RANGE:

$72,000 to $82,000

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Administrative Support:

  • Provide administrative support to the Information Governance Unit and other units within the Office of the General Counsel, as needed.
  • Produce reports, correspondence, and other documents.
  • Perform highly sensitive and confidential assignments.
  • Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.

Records Tracking, Access & Management:

  • Organize, scan, file, and code records.
  • Ensure proper storage, retention, and disposition of records.
  • Maintain compliance with records management standards and policies.
  • Scan paper documents to create accurate digital copies.
  • Locate requested files for staff.
  • Maintain logs of document access and retrieval.
  • Track physical and electronic records inventories.
  • Create, update, and maintain electronic databases and tracking systems.
  • Move and shelve boxes of records.
  • Assist with maintaining records storage areas.
  • Work includes time in the office, records storage rooms, and occasional assignments at Council district offices throughout the five boroughs.

Retention & Disposition:

  • Monitor records retention schedules.
  • Determine when records become eligible for disposal.
  • Oversee the destruction of sensitive records in accordance with the City Charter and applicable policies.

FOIL & Compliance Support:

  • Review and redact records containing sensitive information using redaction software.
  • Assist the Records Access Officer in determining whether requested records are subject to statutory exemptions from disclosure.

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • A Bachelor’s degree or an Associate degree with relevant work experience.
  • At least three years of experience in records management, document review, or a related field.
  • Must be able to repeatedly lift and carry up to 40 pounds, push and pull carts, climb ladders to shelve boxes, and perform repetitive bending and reaching.
  • Experience with the Microsoft 365 Suite, including Microsoft Purview and SharePoint.
  • Experience with Epiq Discover or other eDiscovery review software is a plus.
  • Excellent communication skills, with the ability to coordinate effectively with various divisions, offices, and elected officials.
  • Excellent project management, communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to follow through on assignments.
  • A valid New York State driver’s license without restrictions.
  • Familiarity with the five boroughs of New York City is preferred.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

New York City residency required within 90 days of appointment.

For eligible employees, health, dental and vision insurance coverage are offered upon hire. Retirement plans, deferred compensation plans, group life insurance, paid time off and paid holidays, training resources, health & fitness reimbursement and wellness programs are also available.

The New York City Council provides reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities in accordance with applicable laws. If an accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, please contact EEOOfficer@council.nyc.gov.

HOW TO APPLY:

Qualified candidates should forward their resume and a cover letter to:

E-MAIL:         counciljobs@council.nyc.gov   

MAIL:             New York City Council

Attn: Personnel Services/Recruiting (IGU)

250 Broadway, 26th Floor

New York, New York 10007

FAX:               12124014711

While we sincerely appreciate all applications, only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

The New York City Council is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual’s sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.