Receptionist

Receptionist

Salary Range: $42,435 – $46,063

Kalamazoo Defender is an independent non-profit organization that provides legal representation to the adult indigent population charged with a crime within Kalamazoo County. We take a holistic approach, employing compassionate professionals who work with our clients to identify and address additional needs beyond their legal case. In collaboration with our robust network of area service providers, we aim to connect our clients to relevant support services.

We fight for justice in the courts, care in the community, and dignity in the world. Our mission is rooted in the conviction that poverty and various forms of discrimination put our clients on inequitable footing within and beyond our criminal justice system. Our job is to be their zealous defender in the face of these systemic barriers, fighting for them in court, organizing care for them in our community, and advocating for their inherent dignity in the broader world.

THE JOB:

Kalamazoo Defender seeks a full-time Receptionist to serve as a warm first point of contact for visitors and callers, ensuring a welcoming and professional experience for clients, staff, partners, and the public. With an unwavering positive attitude and dedication to service, the Receptionist will manage front desk operations, handle administrative tasks, monitor and direct foot traffic, answer and route a multi-line phone, and support office operations for the organization.

The ideal candidate for the Receptionist role at Kalamazoo Defender is adaptable and resilient, comfortable in a fast-paced, client-centered environment. Highly organized and vigilant, they possess exceptional time management and situational awareness. With a commitment to professionalism, compassion, and integrity, they are solutions-focused, creative under pressure, and deeply dedicated to equity, holistic defense, and client advocacy.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Greet visitors and direct them appropriately, maintaining a warm and professional demeanor.
• Answer and route phone calls, providing basic information and assistance as needed.
• Manage incoming and outgoing mail, deliveries, and office supplies.
• Maintain a tidy and organized reception area.
• Assist with administrative tasks such as data entry, scheduling, document preparation, and calendar management.
• Keep visitors informed of pertinent information by creating and displaying signage.
• Support office operations by coordinating with staff and external partners.
• Help maintain organized and clean supply rooms and kitchen areas.
• Uphold confidentiality and professionalism in all interactions.
• Handle high-stress situations with patience and de-escalation techniques.
• Perform any other duties as assigned, contributing to the overall effectiveness and success of the defense team.

QUALIFICATIONS:

REQUIRED:

• Strong commitment to Kalamazoo Defender's mission and values.
• Superior skill in working with a variety of individuals from diverse backgrounds, including individuals with disabilities, struggling with active addiction, and dealing with mental health crises.
• Demonstrated resilience in challenging situations.
• Commitment to cultural awareness, maintaining professionalism, ensuring confidentiality, and acting with compassion and integrity.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with a welcoming and professional presence.
• Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and confidentiality.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, client-centered environment, including handling high-stress situations and de-escalating tense interactions.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and other basic office technologies.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently.
• Ability to prioritize work tasks while working both collaboratively and independently.

PREFERRED:

• Prior experience in reception, administrative support, or customer service. (2 years)
• Knowledge of the criminal justice system and legal processes, particularly as they relate to indigent defense.
• Bilingual abilities.

BENEFITS:

• Health care coverage including medical, dental, and vision, with employee premiums covered at 100%.
• Retirement program offering both 403B and Roth options with employer match of 1.5 times employee contributions up to 5%.
• Five weeks of paid time off (pro-rated for start date), paid holiday closures, and additional paid parental leave program.
• Robust employee assistance program that includes services for all household members.
• Optional Flexible Spending and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts.
• Kalamazoo Defender is a Michigan Tri-Share participating employer, which means that qualifying employees may be eligible for childcare assistance, with costs shared between the employee, the employer, and the state.
• An opportunity to work with like-minded, mission-driven individuals in a dynamic and innovative holistic legal program, backed by a county capable of maximizing Kalamazoo Defender's mission.

HOW TO APPLY:

Kalamazoo Defender is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applicants from all backgrounds to apply.

Please send your resume and cover letter to Jobs@KalamazooDefender.org or to the following address:

HOW TO APPLY:

Kalamazoo Defender is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applicants from all backgrounds to apply.

Please send your resume and cover letter to Jobs@KalamazooDefender.org or to the following address:

Kalamazoo Defender

Attn: Human Resources

151 S Rose St - Ste 200

Kalamazoo, MI 49007

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $42,435.00 - $46,063.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift

Ability to Commute:

• Kalamazoo, MI 49007 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Kalamazoo, MI 49007: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $42,435 - $46,063