Project Assistant

About the role

Vedder's New York office is seeking a Project Assistant. This is an entry-level position offering a unique opportunity to learn about the various practice areas from the ground up. As a project assistant, you will work under the direct supervision of a paralegal to assist paralegals and attorneys with a variety of tasks and projects within the lifespan of a case. You will also gain foundational knowledge and skills while providing task-based support to the deal teams. No prior experience is required.

Responsibilities

• Assist with the initial case setup, data analytics and organization.
• Assist paralegals with eDiscovery tasks.
• Assist with the organization, filing and management of case-related documents.
• Prepare case and trial binders of relevant information and documents.
• Track, log and input information into various platforms.
• Assist with deposition arrangements and the preparation of witness files.
• Load, search and pull deposition transcripts and assist with designations.
• Assist with online research including fact-checking, cite checking, expert research, etc.; pull electronic cases and docket information.
• Assist with trial logistics and pre-trial planning; provide support at trial, arbitration or mediations.
• Assist paralegals with post-trial briefing and tasks.
• Review and organize due diligence materials.
• Routinely organize and maintain files related to various transactions.
• Assist with obtaining and completing forms and filing documents.
• Prepare and distribute closing sets (electronic and/or hard copy).
• Follow up, track and organize post-closing items.
• Update and maintain client files and documents (including minute books and client records).
• Update client entity information in client management database.
• Interface with various departments to accomplish tasks.
• Work with various internal departments and outside vendors.
• Meet an annual billable target of 1,050 hours.

Skills & Competencies

• Ability to learn quickly and apply training to practical issues.
• Excellent organization skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure.
• Ability to multitask and exercise successful time management.
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
• Excellent interpersonal skills.
• Willingness to work overtime.

This role is hybrid and will require at least three days of work in the office.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree, required.

Computer Skills

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be proficient in the following software:

• Microsoft Word, Outlook and Excel
• Internet Explorer, Edge, or Adobe

Exposure to the following platforms is a plus:

• PACER, Westlaw, Lexis, Relativity, secured file transfer software, or any litigation database platform
• DocuSign, SharePoint, or secured file transferring software

Pay

Compensation range: $50,000/year to $60,000/year.

Benefits

• Competitive base salary commensurate with skills and experience
• Discretionary annual bonus program
• Discretionary profit sharing and 401(k) matching
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision plans
• Optional health savings and flexible spending accounts
• Firm-paid life and disability benefits
• Wellness programs
• Competitive paid time off package including vacation days, paid holidays, sick time and personal days
• Firm-provided training programs for continuous learning and career growth
• Anniversary and Vedder Praise Programs for employee recognition
• Hybrid work model and family-friendly policies
• Employee discount program
• Pre-tax commuter benefits
• Backup child & elder care
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Fitness center discounts