Case Opener Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Appeals Case Manager exercises responsibility for processing cases through all stages of the appellate process, from initial receipt through final disposition. The major responsibilities and duties include the following:

• Collect case opening data; review and monitor compliance with jurisdictional prerequisites; prepare case opening documents; docket the case; establish deadlines to monitor compliance.
• Receive and docket all motions and responses to motions; rule on those motions delegated to clerk's authority by local rule or internal policy; and monitor action thereon.
• Research and respond to verbal and written inquiries from judges, other courts, counsel, pro se parties and others concerning procedures, case problems and case status.
• Establish and issue a briefing schedule tailored to case need.
• Receive and review briefs tendered for filing for compliance with technical requirements of Sixth Circuit Rules and Federal Rules of Appellate Procedure. Advise counsel of deficiencies to briefs with specific directions for correction and monitor receipt of corrections.
• Receive and docket orders from judges. Make timely distribution of orders and opinions to counsel, parties and the district court and district court judges, as appropriate. Draft orders as requested by chambers or supervisors.
• Construe pro se documents, refer to appropriate staff members and prepare written responses when necessary.
• Provide prompt notification to appropriate court staff of emergency motions; request expedited responses; and follow-up until completion.
• Provide courtroom support as primary, backup or setup courtroom deputy.
  

• Required: Excellent organizational and interpersonal skills; highly precise and detailed. Present a professional image and demeanor. Ability to exercise discretion in dealing with confidential information. Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines. Ability to apply a body of rules, regulations, directives, or laws and involve the routine use of specialized terminology and automated software. Ability to work in a team-based environment. High school diploma, or its equivalent.

• Preferred: Two years of work experience which relates to the processing of legal documents and/or the application of statutes and rules/regulations, and the use of legal terminology. Related experience in a court, government agency, law firm, or equivalent environment. Experience with electronic case-management systems.

• Compensation*: $51,414- $83,604 (CL 25)* | $56,634 - $92,043 (CL 26)* (*Salary commensurate with qualifications in accordance with U.S. Court Guidelines)

• Benefits: Employer subsidized health and life insurance plans. Dental and vision insurance plans. Flexible spending accounts for health care, dependent care, and commuter expenses. Eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program and mass transit subsidies. On-site fitness center. Federal retirement entails a pension plan (FERS-FRAE) and employer-matching Thrift Savings Plan (similar to a 401K). Retirees may carry insurance plans into retirement while paying the same premiums as employees. Visit www.uscourts.gov/careers/benef... to learn more about the Judiciary's competitive benefits.

• Work/Life: Annual time off - 13 vacation days, 13 sick leave days, and 11 paid holidays. Vacation days increase to 20 days after three years and to 26 days after fifteen years. Hybrid telework schedule may be available.

The selected candidate is provisionally hired pending results of background check and fingerprinting. Employees are required to adhere to the Judicial Code of Conduct for Judicial Employees. On occasion, after-hours and weekend work may be requested to support the Court. Electronic Fund Transfer for payroll direct deposit is required. Positions with the U.S. Courts are at-will, excepted service appointments, and may be terminated with or without cause by the Court. For citizenship requirements, visit www.uscourts.gov/careers. The Court reserves the right to modify the conditions of this announcement, or to withdraw the announcement for any reason without notice.

Please submit a single PDF application packet, including (1) a cover letter addressing your qualifications and experience in relation to the job duties and how you learned of the position, (2) a current resume, to the Director of Human Resources via the 'Apply to Position' button. Position is open until filled; preference given to applications received by April 17, 2026.

More than one position may be filled from this announcement. Interviews may be scheduled on a rolling basis and take place prior to the 'received by' date listed above. Virtual first round interviews available.

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The United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit is an equal opportunity employer. For a reasonable accommodation during the recruitment process, contact Human Resources at (513) 564-7250.