ABOUT US
Almost 1.2 million residents call York Region home, making it one of the largest regions in Canada – and the fastest growing with a population that’s expected to grow to more than 2 million by 2041. Our geography, which is comprised of about 1,800 square kilometers over nine different municipalities, is as beautiful, interesting and diverse as our people. Local government is organized in a two-tier structure and we work together with our local municipalities to provide residents and businesses access to a broad selection of services and resources.
WHAT WE OFFER
Consistently named one of Canada’s Best Employers by Forbes, we offer a collaborative, progressive workplace that takes pride in our organizational culture and is committed to living The 13 Factors of Psychological Health and Safety in the Workplace – aligned with our vision to create strong, caring and safe communities both within and outside our walls.
- Defined Benefit Pension Program - With the Ontario Municipality Employees Retirement System (OMERS) defined benefit pension plan, you can confidently retire knowing that you will have income for life. Eligibility from date of hire as a full-time employee and includes employer-matched contributions.
- Employer of Choice - Recognized as the highest-ranking government employer in Canada and fourth overall among 300 organizations.
- Benefits and Wellness - Employees and their loved ones have access to a comprehensive employer-paid benefits plan that includes extended health, dental and life insurance, access to a 24/7 Employee and Family Assistance Program and corporate discounts and purchase plans for day-to-day products and services.
- Inclusive and Diverse Workforce - We’re committed to fostering an environment that celebrates all dimensions of diversity and ensures everyone can develop to their full potential, participate freely in society and live with respect, dignity and freedom from discrimination. Our robust Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility program continues to grow, and has been recognized by the United Nations and many other organizations for our leadership.
ABOUT THE ROLE
Reporting to the Senior Counsel, Information Technology & Cybersecurity, the legal assistant will provide confidential, legal and administrative support, including drafting or preparing correspondence, opening files and calendar management, for the Senior Counsel and Associate Counsel along with other administrative and management duties of legal practice area.
WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING
- Assists counsel in preparing/drafting agreements, memoranda of understanding, correspondence, documents, reports and conducts related corporate searches
- Administers and processes legal documents and ensures security, insurance requirements and authorization within limitation periods are met to protect the legal and financial interests of the Region; arranges for signature, execution and registration of documents and agreements.
- Maintains filing system, precedents etc. and updates records and lists to ensure accuracy; files correspondence, reports and other documents in accordance with Regional standards and assists with records management (Versatile).
- Acts as the communications link between the Counsel staff and cross-department staff, officials, outside agencies and the public.
- Provides back-up coverage, as required, during the absences of other Legal Assistants.
- Carries out other administrative duties, as required.
WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR
- Successful completion of a post-secondary education in a Legal Assistant Program or equivalent approved combination of education and experience.
- Minimum of five (5) years legal administrative experience in a private or public law practice.
- Experience working in one or more of the following would be an asset:
- Municipal Law
- Information Technology Law
- Corporate/Commercial Law
- Thorough knowledge of the preparation of various legal documents, contracts, agreements, records and file systems, and clerical administrative practices.
- Knowledge of and demonstrated ability in corporate core competencies including customer service, communication, team work, initiative/self-management and accountability, and flexibility/adaptability.
- Computer literacy utilizing MS Office software applications
- Demonstrated ability to research/investigate issues and resolve problems including use of legal research software programs.
- Organizational skills and ability to assess priorities, work independently to meet required deadlines with conflicting demands and changing priorities.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality, and exercise good judgement and discretion in dealing with confidential information and/or responding to inquiries.
- Ability to work outside normal business hours as required.
