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. May also assist with the preparation and review of legal agreements to utilize 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.
• Note: 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 only if the operation of a vehicle is necessary to perform the essential duties of the position.

Preferred Skills

• Prior experience working on or handling real estate agreements and transactions, particularly those involving public entities.
• Excellent analytical skills and professional written and oral communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work independently as well as in a group/team atmosphere.

Pay

$25 per hour.

Schedule

35 hours per week (up to 944 hours maximum per fiscal year). Opening date: 8/20/2026. Closing date: 9/10/2026.

Benefits

• Earned Sick Time (pursuant to the State/Department's policy, procedures, and/or guidelines).

Additional Information

• Residency: All persons newly hired on or after September 1, 2011, must establish and maintain principal residence in the State of New Jersey within one year of employment, subject to the provisions of N.J.S.A. 52:14-7 (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: To qualify for New Jersey Veteran's Preference, proof must be submitted with the resume. For more information, visit NJ Veteran's Services.
• SAME Applicants: If applying under the NJ SAME program, supporting documents (Schedule A or B letter) must be submitted with the resume by the closing date. For more information, email SAME@csc.nj.gov or call (609) 292-4144 and select Option #3.