Deputy Court Clerk I

Agency: Unified Judicial System, Second Judicial Circuit • Location: Sioux Falls, SD • Salary: $20.22 per hour • $500 new-hire incentive

About the role

This position assists with cases filed with the court clerk’s office—including criminal, civil, traffic, and other cases—from initial filing to final disposition. Responsibilities span developing and maintaining case files, scheduling and assigning hearings, supporting courtroom proceedings, implementing procedures for monetary dispositions, and providing daily customer service to a wide variety of individuals and agencies. The role also acts on behalf of the court clerk in their absence.

Responsibilities

• Maintain case files for criminal, civil, traffic, and other cases from initial to final disposition in accordance with established procedures and designated timelines.
• Assist in maintaining court calendars by scheduling hearings according to procedures.
• Provide customer service to diverse individuals by explaining court protocols and procedures to ensure accurate information is delivered.
• Assist victims of domestic violence with court processes, including timely attention to protection-order requests and information on available local services.
• Support courtroom operations by managing case files and minutes of proceedings, handling in-court exhibits, empaneling juries, recording proceedings, operating sound and video equipment, and providing interpretive services when needed.
• Perform other assigned duties in case processing, scheduling, records maintenance, finance, jury management, courtroom support, customer service, technical assistance, and general administration.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED certificate.
• One year of general clerical experience, or an equivalent combination of related education and experience.
• Successful completion of a criminal background investigation is required for employment.
• Proficiency in computers and related software systems.
• Must verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete an Employment Eligibility Verification (Form I-9).

Skills & Knowledge

• Knowledge of: court processes and procedures, legal terminology, general office and bookkeeping practices.
• Skill in: time management, organization, customer service.
• Ability to: communicate effectively both verbally and in writing; listen and understand; work independently; recognize and defuse escalating situations with customers and staff; multi-task and adapt quickly to change; prioritize work activities to ensure critical tasks are completed first.

Benefits

• 11–13 paid holidays per year.
• Extensive sick and vacation leave.
• Paid family leave and military training leave.
• Health and flexible benefits.
• Regular working hours.
• Continuing education opportunities.
• Retirement benefits.