Company Bio

Legal Aid Ontario employees are committed to making a difference in the lives of our clients.

As an integral partner in the Justice system, working at Legal Aid Ontario is more than just a job. It's an opportunity to help people who need it the most; to ensure each client receives the access to justice afforded to them under the law.

If you are looking for a new challenge in your already meaningful career with a team dedicated to justice, and innovation in a flexible and supportive work environment consider this opportunity below.

Primary function

The Administrative Assistant is responsible for providing receptionist support with some administrative responsibilities for the Client Service Unit. The employee will be responsible for answering and appropriately directing all incoming telephone calls using a multi-line console in both English and French as well as providing service to in-person clients including triaging of intakes for Senior Counsel, Family Law Service Centre and Refugee Law Office. The successful candidate will also assist with other reception/resource centre tasks as required

Home Location: Provincial Office, Client Service Unit - Toronto
Secondary Location: Not applicable

Reports to: Manager, Resource Centre/Client Account Services

Key accountabilities

• Answers incoming telephone calls, taking messages as required and transferring callers to the appropriate member of staff or another agency.
• Provides clients and the public with basic information regarding Legal Aid Ontario.
• Triaging and setting up appointments for walk-in and phone intakes for Client Service Unit.
• Obtaining information from clients and uploading to appropriate file management system (e.g. PeopleSoft, Legal Files etc).
• Responds to client status inquiries on files using the appropriate file management system.
• Performing conflict checks using the various systems across each client service office.
• Trains relief staff to operate internal telephone systems
• Responds to panic button calls.
• Assist with room booking system
• Supporting occupational health and safety procedures within work space
• Performs other duties as assigned (backfilling admins, scanning, digitization etc.)

Required skills & experience

• Solid understanding of Legal Aid Ontario services including legal and financial eligibility.

• Knowledge of the operations of Legal Aid Ontario to ensure calls are appropriately directed and queries are answered

• Experience in front-line reception or customer service position including working with vulnerable clients.

• Ability to manage competing priorities and prioritize tasks in a high-pressure and fast-paced office environment.

• Must be able to deal effectively and calmly with vulnerable clients, including those with mental health and/or addiction issues, both on phone and in person.

• Physical Demands: Extended periods of sitting, minimal supervision, ongoing telephone work and ongoing verbal contact with staff and the public, light lifting of office supplies.

• Intermediate level skill in Microsoft Office programs and Adobe programs (PDFs etc.).

• French language skills, both oral and written are required (Candidates will be tested on their French language skills).

To apply submit a cover letter & résumé.

Final candidates for this position will be required to undergo a criminal record check.

This position is collectively represented by the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU) Local 525 and, therefore, union dues will be deducted bi-weekly.

Note: If a permanent employee, currently represented by OPSEU, is the successful candidate for this opportunity, they will return to their home position at the conclusion of this assignment, if the position continues to exist.

Please note that all applicants are encouraged to provide a valid email address for communication purposes. Applicants may receive written correspondence regarding this job posting directly to the email address provided on their resume or to the one used to set up their Candidate Profile if applying on Njoyn. As an applicant, it is your responsibility to ensure that you check your email regularly. Only those candidates selected for an interview will be notified.

First time applying to LAO? You will need to create a profile AND then apply for the position.
Already have an Njoyn account? Just sign in and select "my jobs" to apply.
Once you have successfully applied you will receive a confirmation email.

Trouble applying? For telephone support please call 1-877-427-7717 or email: candidate.njoynhelp@cgi.com.

Equity Statement

Building a diverse workforce that represents the communities we serve while promoting a safe culture and work environment that dismantles systemic barriers, welcomes fresh perspectives and embraces differences as a priority is a core value at LAO. LAO encourages applicants from equity-seeking groups, including but not limited to individuals who are First Nations, Inuit or Métis, Black and racialized, as well as persons with disabilities, women and members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community.

We recognize the value of equity, diversity and inclusion and are committed to addressing systemic barriers, and prioritizing, attracting and retaining diverse staff. All interested and eligible people will be considered, with due consideration to all protected grounds under the Ontario Human Rights Code.

Legal Aid Ontario values integrity, respect, responsiveness, excellence, independence, accountability, openness and consistency. Our recruitment process reflects our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion. Accommodations are available throughout the recruitment process as well as during employment at LAO. Please direct any accommodation requests to our recruitment team.