The Diocesan Tribunal invites dedicated and detail-oriented candidates to apply for the position of Vietnamese Tribunal Administrative Assistant II.
Under the supervision of the Judicial Vicar, the Vietnamese Tribunal Administrative Assistant provides administrative, linguistic, case management, and pastoral support for the operations of the Diocesan Tribunal, with a particular focus on serving Vietnamese-speaking members of the faithful.
This position supports the processing of marriage nullity cases and other canonical matters and ensures accurate, timely, and pastoral communication between tribunal personnel and Vietnamese-speaking petitioners, respondents, witnesses, clergy, and parish staff.
The role combines administrative assistance, interpretation and translation (English ↔ Vietnamese), case tracking, and culturally sensitive pastoral support in alignment with the mission of the Diocese and the Tribunal.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING: (other duties may be assigned)
A. Vietnamese Tribunal Case Support
• Assist in processing incoming petitions for marriage nullity and other canonical matters involving Vietnamese-speaking parties.
• Track case progress, deadlines, and required actions for Vietnamese-language cases.
• Ensure all required documentation is received, complete, and translated as needed.
• Assist with gathering testimonies and supporting documents from Vietnamese-speaking petitioners, respondents, and witnesses.
B. Communication, Interpretation, and Translation
• Serve as a primary point of contact for Vietnamese-speaking petitioners, respondents, witnesses, clergy, and selected parish staff.
• Make phone calls and conduct follow-ups with Vietnamese-speaking parties regarding case status and required information.
• Provide accurate oral interpretation and written translation (English ↔ Vietnamese) for:
• Tribunal correspondence and forms
• Testimonies, affidavits, and supporting documents
• Letters, reports, and official tribunal documentation
• Schedule and assist with interviews, appointments, and meetings, including providing interpretation when needed.
• Transcribe interviews and translate transcripts into English.
• Communicate tribunal procedures, timelines, and expectations clearly and pastorally in Vietnamese.
C. Administrative and Operational Support
• Prepare tribunal correspondence in English and Vietnamese.
• Maintain calendars for interviews and appointments related to Vietnamese cases.
• Support tribunal staff and case managers with document preparation, transcription, and case logistics.
• Assist with translation of tribunal forms, letters, and informational materials into Vietnamese.
D. Pastoral, Cultural, and Community Support
• Provide culturally sensitive, respectful, and pastoral assistance to Vietnamese-speaking faithful navigating the tribunal process.
• Collaborate with Vietnamese ministry leaders, clergy, and parish staff as appropriate.
• Assist in the development of Vietnamese-language resources explaining tribunal procedures and canonical processes.
E. Special Projects and Events
• Assist with tribunal workshops, information sessions, and canonical training offered in Vietnamese.
• Support diocesan initiatives related to canonical education and outreach within the Vietnamese community.
Required Skills and Abilities
• Fluency in speaking, reading, and writing Vietnamese and English.
• Strong interpretation and translation skills with attention to tone, accuracy, and confidentiality.
• Ability to assimilate information quickly and manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
• Excellent listening, interviewing, organizational, and communication skills.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to guard confidentiality and exercise discretion at all times.
• Ability to work collaboratively and professionally with clergy, staff, and laity.
• Sensitivity to pastoral situations and comfort working in multicultural and diverse settings.
• Ability to follow tribunal policies, canonical procedures, and office protocols.
QUALIFICATIONS TO PERFORM THE JOB SUCCESSFULLY:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, ability or physical demands required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.
Education and/or Experience:
• Associate degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum of 2–3 years of administrative experience or equivalent.
• Experience in diocesan, parish, tribunal, or related church settings preferred.
• Experience with document preparation, transcription, and case support strongly preferred.
Language Skills:
• Required fluency in written and spoken English and Vietnamese.
• Ability to translate and interpret accurately between English and Vietnamese.
• Strong interpersonal and pastoral communication skills.
Reasoning Ability: Requires the ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables.
Technical Skills:
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office 365.
• Proficiency in transcription and document translation.
• Reasoning Ability
• Ability to solve practical problems, manage competing priorities, and exercise sound judgment.
Physical Demands:
• Regularly required to sit for extended periods and perform repetitive tasks such as typing and transcription.
• Occasional standing, walking, reaching, and lifting up to 10 pounds.
• Work is primarily conducted in the Tribunal office or conference room.
Physical Environment: While performing the duties of this job the employee will work in the Tribunal office or conference room.
Working Conditions: Must be physically present in the office and able to work cooperatively with staff and clients.
Other Requirements:
• Practicing Catholic in good standing preferred.
• Knowledge of the Catholic Church’s structure, mission, and pastoral values.
• Commitment to the mission of the Diocese and the Tribunal.
• Professional demeanor and ability to build trust with diverse populations.
• Ability to multitask and provide courteous, compassionate service.
• Occasional travel may be required.
Salary Range: $21.42 – $25.00 per hour, based on education and experience.
Interested candidates are invited to send their resume to jobs@dsj.org