Paralegal Legal Assistant I

Paralegal I

San Diego, CA, United States (On-site)

Job Title: Paralegal I

Job Code: LGL120

Location: San Diego, CA

Reports to: Program Manager

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Supervisory: No supervisory/management authority

Prepared Date: 9/28/2026

Position Summary:

Analyze legal impact of legislative developments and administrative and judicial decisions, opinions, determinations, and rulings on Agency programs. Identify and analyze significant facts, formulating legal issues to be researched, researching issues presented and other similar legal analysis and research. Conduct research for the preparation of legal opinions on matters of interest to the Agency. Perform substantive legal analysis of requests for information under the provisions of various acts, or other similar legal support functions which require discretion and independent judgment in the application of a specialized knowledge of laws, precedent decisions, regulations, Agency policies and practices, and judicial or administrative proceedings.

Compensation & Benefits:

Starting Salary Range for Paralegal I: $23.34 – $24.04 per hour

Benefits That Set Us Apart

When considering your next opportunity, compensation is only part of the picture. We offer a benefits package designed to invest in your future and support your life outside of work.

Highlights include:

• Up to a 6% 401(k) company match to help you build long-term financial security

• Paid time off as part of our comprehensive benefits package, so you have the flexibility to rest, recharge, and enjoy what matters most

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus prescription drug coverage

• Basic life and AD&D insurance, with supplemental life options

• Short-term and long-term disability coverage

• Paid holidays

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and Health Savings Account (HSA) options

• Professional development, training, and certification support

• Voluntary benefits including accident, critical illness, and identity theft protection

Because taking care of our employees isn’t just a promise, it’s part of who we are.

Benefits are subject to change and eligibility requirements apply.

Essential Functions, Duties & Responsibilities:

Includes the following:

• Legal research - Using a basic knowledge of the application of a body of law, regulations, precedents, and practices covering one or more recurring types of legal actions, performs research, evaluation, and analysis of a variety of routine legal topics and points of law.

• Legal writing - Following established USAO precedents, drafts initial legal and administrative briefs, motions, oppositions to defense motions and correspondence for AUSA review.

• Preparation and management of evidence and discovery - Prepares and organizes documentation and evidence for production as discovery and for use in trial.

• Case support - Participates in pre-trial witness conferences, noting any deficiencies in case materials (e. g. , missing documents, conflicting statements) and additional issues or other matters requiring investigation prior to trial.

• Receives written and oral requests for assistance from individuals from both USAO staff and from other governmental agencies.

• Perform other job-related duties as assigned.
  

Supervisory Responsibilities:

No supervisory/management authority

Basic Qualifications:

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer; may occasionally require standing or moving about the office for extended periods.

• Must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal.
  

Preferred Qualifications:

• Knowledge of Microsoft Office products

• Ability to maintain a high level of professionalism, confidence, and integrity while directly dealing with internal and external customers

• Must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal
  

Work Environment:

Work is performed primarily in a climate-controlled environment.

Company Information:

Behind every government mission stands skilled, mission-driven talent: people whose expertise and dedication turn complex challenges into successful outcomes. Cherokee Strategic Solutions, part of Cherokee Federal, the federal contracting division of Cherokee Nation Businesses, is that team. We modernize aging systems, deliver care where it’s needed most, and keep missions supplied, staffed, and moving across defense, intelligence, and civilian agencies. For more than 60 federal clients, we take on the work others won’t, and deliver where it counts. If that’s the kind of work you’re looking for, you’ve found your team. Learn more at cherokee-federal.com.

Cherokee Federal is a military friendly employer. Veterans and active military transitioning to civilian status are encouraged to apply.

Legal Disclaimer: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected veteran status, disability or any other status protected under applicable federal, state or local law.

Many of our job openings require access to government buildings or military installations. Candidates must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal.

Pursuant to California SB 1162, the estimated hourly pay range for this position is $23.34 – $24.04 per hour. Actual compensation may vary based on experience, skills, and qualifications.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement

Cherokee Federal is a federal contractor subject to the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA). As required by VEVRAA, we take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment qualified protected veterans. Protected veterans are encouraged to self-identify during the application process.

Cherokee Federal takes affirmative action to employ and advance in employment qualified individuals with disabilities in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act. Qualified individuals with disabilities are encouraged to self-identify during the application process.

Reasonable accommodations are available to qualified individuals with disabilities or those with sincerely held religious beliefs. To request an accommodation in the application or interview process, please contact Human Resources at [email protected].