LREP-2026-2H Research Analyst/Paralegal (Hourly)

Open to the general public. Two existing vacancies in the Department of Environmental Protection, Office of Transactions and Public Land Administration, located at 401 East State Street, Trenton, NJ 08625.

About the Role

Under supervision, performs varied work incidental to the acquisition of real estate or interests therein, including review of title searches and title insurance policies, determination of the legal effect of recorded instruments, and preparation of memoranda and other required documents.

Specific to this position: Provide legal assistance, including the preparation and review of acquisition contracts, real estate closing documents, and correspondence. Work directly with DEP regulatory officers, Deputy Attorneys General (DAsG), and existing paralegal/research analyst staff handling contract preparation, real estate closings, and post-closing administration, which may include assistance with legal agreements to utilize DEP land.

Responsibilities

• Review title searches and title insurance policies.
• Determine the legal effect of recorded instruments.
• Prepare memoranda and other required documents for real estate acquisitions.
• Prepare and review acquisition contracts and real estate closing documents.
• Assist with post-closing administration, including preparation and review of legal agreements involving DEP land.

Requirements

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with an Associate's degree in Paralegal Studies, or an Associate’s degree and a Certificate of Proficiency in Paralegal Studies.
• A Juris Doctorate (JD) degree may substitute for the above education requirement. Transcript must be uploaded with the application if substituting a JD.
• Two (2) years of experience as a paralegal in a law firm, legal tribunal, or legal department in a public or private entity whose primary function is the research, enactment, enforcement, or litigation of legal matters.
• Possession of a driver's license valid in New Jersey is required only if operation of a vehicle is necessary to perform essential duties.

Preferred Skills

• Prior experience working on real estate agreements and transactions, particularly those involving public entities.
• Excellent analytical skills.
• Professional written and oral communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment.

Pay

$25 per hour.

Schedule

35 hours per week, up to 944 hours maximum per fiscal year.

Benefits

• Earned sick time (pursuant to State/Department policy, procedures, and guidelines).

Additional Information

• Residency: All newly hired employees must establish and maintain principal residence in New Jersey within one year of employment, per the "New Jersey First Act."
• Authorization to Work: Selected candidates must be authorized to work in the United States. The State of New Jersey does not provide sponsorship for U.S. citizenship.
• Veteran's Preference: Eligible veterans may qualify for preference. Proof of Veteran's Preference must be submitted with the resume.
• SAME Applicants: Supporting documents (Schedule A or B letter) must be submitted with the resume by the closing date if applying under the NJ SAME program.