Clerk/Receptionist -- Temporary Extra Help

Whatcom County Public Defender's Office is a vital governmental agency dedicated to providing legal defense services to individuals who cannot afford private counsel. Situated in Bellingham, Washington, this office operates within the Public Defender's Building at 215 N Commercial St. The office serves a diverse client base, offering advocacy and representation in various criminal justice matters. Known for its commitment to justice and community support, the Whatcom County Public Defender's Office employs a team of professionals who work collaboratively to ensure fair legal processes for all clients. This agency plays an essential role in the county’s judicial system, emphasizing integrity, respect, and legal expertise to uphold defendants' rights throughout their cases. Employment with this office means contributing to a mission-driven environment focused on public service in the field of criminal justice. This particular position is full-time and temporary extra help, offering a pay rate of $20.76 per hour. The working hours are variable from Monday to Friday, between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm, with weekly hours fluctuating according to departmental needs.

The Public Defender's Office is currently seeking a highly organized and dedicated Clerk/Receptionist to join the team. This role is designed for individuals who thrive in a fast-paced, high-volume office environment and who possess excellent clerical and communication skills. The Clerk/Receptionist will serve as the primary point of contact for clients, staff, and visitors, requiring a professional demeanor and the ability to handle stressful situations with composure and tact. Daily responsibilities include answering telephones, greeting visitors—which can include offenders, public members, agency staff, and court personnel—and managing critical data entry and retrieval tasks. Working in a sensitive and sometimes emotionally charged environment, the Clerk/Receptionist must demonstrate patience, strong interpersonal skills, and the capacity to exert a calming influence on individuals who may be distressed, angry, or under the influence of substances.

The position also requires executing a twice-daily court-run involving the picking up, date stamping, and delivering of legal and administrative documents throughout the courthouse complex and within the department, ensuring timely and accurate processing of vital information. Success in this role demands attention to detail, reliability, and the ability to multitask effectively under pressure. Candidates must be comfortable working collaboratively with the Office Administrator and supporting the smooth operation of the Public Defender's Office. Applying early is encouraged as applications are reviewed weekly until the position is filled, reflecting the office’s urgency in recruiting a capable and committed team member. This temporary opportunity is an excellent path for those seeking to develop or enhance administrative skills within the legal sector, offering valuable exposure to public service and criminal justice work in Whatcom County.