Project Assistant - New York

Sidley is seeking Project Assistants to join our New York office.  The Project Assistant is an entry-level position that supports Attorneys and Paralegals in certain practice groups and involves contact with Attorneys, Paralegals, members of the Paralegal Department and other professional staff. The role is designed to give individuals who are interested in attending law school the experience of working in a law firm. For candidates who have not yet decided if they will attend law school, it provides an opportunity to explore, train for and develop a career as a paraprofessional in a large law firm. 

• Responsibilities consist of a variety of billable and non-billable tasks, including but not limited to organizing electronic and paper files, performing non-legal research using a variety of research tools, maintaining the integrity of client files and data and assisting Attorneys and Paralegals with practice-specific projects.

New York Applicants (and roles reporting to New York): Salaries may vary by location. In New York, the estimated target salary range of this role is $60,000, in addition to bonus eligibility and a comprehensive benefit package. Salary determinations are made based on numerous factors, such as, but not limited to, the relevant market and the skill, experience, class or graduation year, and education of the selected candidate.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the Duties and Responsibilities (Duties) above satisfactorily and meet the requirements below.  The requirements listed below are representative of the minimum knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.  Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.  If you need such an accommodation, please email staffrecruiting@sidley.com (current employees should contact Human Resources). 

Education Requirements: 

• Bachelor’s degree

Other Requirements - Skills and Abilities:

• Strong interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills
• Strong computer skills, including proficiency with Firm software (e.g. Outlook, Word, Excel) with the ability to learn new software and operating systems
• Excellent organizational skills
• Excellent attention to detail
• Strong research skills and proficiency in using various research tools
• Excellent analytical, troubleshooting and problem solving skills
• Self-starter who shows ownership and commitment to the position
• Ability to work harmoniously and effectively with others and as part of a team
• Ability to work well independently as well as effectively within a team
• Ability to assume progressive responsibilities within assigned work as experience is gained in the position
• Ability to organize and prioritize work
• Ability to work well under pressure and under tight deadlines
• Ability to use discretion and exercise independent and sound judgment
• Ability to handle sensitive matters and maintain confidentiality  
• Ability to handle multiple projects and shifting priorities
• Ability to work well in a demanding and fast-paced environment
• Ability to preserve confidentiality and exercise discretion
• Ability to proofread accurately
• Ability to follow Firm and Department prescribed policies and procedures
• Log a minimum of 1650 billable hours annually

Sidley Austin LLP is an Equal Opportunity Employer