Legal Department Assistant
The goal of this position is to assist the General Counsel in managing the work of the Legal Department in a lively and fast-paced setting. To that end, a successful candidate must possess the ability to : identify the needs of internal and external clients; access appropriate resources; adapt quickly to priorities that may change due to evolving legal and political events; and develop systems for coordinating workflows and schedules among members of the department.
Day-to-day duties will vary broadly and may include : scheduling meetings and other events; proofreading and finalizing documents; updating and maintaining files; and performing other duties as assigned. The position will also involve communicating with a network of attorneys and legal professionals outside the department, at government agencies, and with staff at UniServ Councils and at other WEA / NEA departments. The Legal Department currently consists of the General Counsel, four Staff Attorneys, and two Paralegals.
Benefits and Compensation :
- Salary range - $85,205 to $116,995
- Employer-paid medical, dental, vision, and life insurance (full family coverage)
- Generous sick and paid time off (PTO)
- Long-term disability plan
- Defined Contribution plan - 401(k) (with employer contribution)
- Defined Benefit plan
- Relocation assistance
- This confidential position is not covered by the WEA / WEASO Collective Bargaining Agreement
Responsibilities :
Engage with both internal and external clients to understand their goals, challenges, and expectations.Identify and utilize the proper tools, systems, and information needed to complete tasks efficiently and accurately.Adapt quickly to priorities that may change due to evolving legal and political events.Design and implement efficient systems and processes to manage and synchronize departmental workflows and schedules.Proofread and prepare final versions of legal documents.Update, organize, and maintain case files.Collaborate and maintain effective communication with a network of attorneys and legal professionals across external government agencies, UniServ Councils, and other WEA / NEA departments to ensure coordinated legal strategies and information sharing.Ensure the confidentiality of union legal matters and member information.Maintain calendars by scheduling meetings, events, court dates, and deadlines.Perform other clerical tasks as needed, which may include management of mail and office supplies.Provide support to the General Counsel on labor management issues and related organizational matters.Other duties as assigned.Minimum Qualifications :
High school diploma or GED equivalent.Strong organizational and research skills and multitasking abilities.Excellent written and verbal communication skills.Attention to detail and a high level of discretion.Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.Ability to move objects up to fifty (50) pounds at times.Must support and help advance the WEA mission, goals, core values, and priorities.This hybrid position requires working on-site two (2) to three (3) days per week at WEA Headquarters in Federal Way, WA.Preferred Qualifications :
College degree.Dedication to public service and, more specifically, to improving the lives of public school educators and advancing the goals of the labor movement.Familiarity with labor law, collective bargaining processes, and grievance / arbitration procedures.Experience working in or with labor unions.Experience working in legal settings.COVID-19 Vaccination :
As part of our commitment to the health and safety of our employees, members and councils, all candidates must provide proof of full COVID-19 vaccination status upon hire. Exceptions may be made for medical or religious reasons in accordance with applicable laws.
Supervision :
The successful incumbent will function as a member of the Legal Department and will report to the General Counsel.
Application :
If you are interested in applying for this position, please submit your application, cover letter, and resume.If you are invited to an interview, you will receive an email from SkillSurvey with instructions and a link on how-to submit your five (5) professional references.The closing date is November 12, 2025, at 4 : 00 PM PT.The Washington Education Association is committed to a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace where the contributions of each employee are respected as part of the work performed on behalf of 90,000+ members in public education. WEA embraces employees with varied backgrounds and life experiences, including race, ethnicity, gender, age, religion, socio-economic status, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical ability, and veteran status. Only those candidates who can commit to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusiveness need apply.