Tribunal Auditor Assessor

Job Summary:

The Auditor/Assessor assists the judges of the Tribunal in their judicial task. As Auditor this assistance takes the form of collecting evidence primarily testimony in canonical trials. As Assessor this takes the form of deliberating about cases with the judges and assisting in the drafting of judicial sentences and other canonical documents. The position reports to the Judicial Vicar and operates some latitude for the use of independent judgment discretion and initiative.

Ministerial Character

The Bishop is the visible principle and foundation of unity in the particular Church (the diocese) entrusted to a unique and visible way he makes Christs mission present and enduring as Shepherd of the Christian order to fulfill his mission the Bishop employs suitable chosen collaborators (clerics religious or lay people). He shares with them the apostolic mission and entrusts various responsibilities to them.

Each position employed in the Diocese of Austin helps to extend the ministry of the Bishop in particular ways as outlined in the job description. Therefore the employee in this position is closely connected to and assists the Bishop in the performance of his ministry and thereby engages in ministry for the church.

Essential Job Duties:

As an integral part of your ministry for the Church as carried out in this position support and uphold the philosophy of Catholic ministry and the mission of the Diocese of Austin in both your professional and personal life.

Act as a witness to Gospel values by modeling the teachings of the Catholic Church.

Continuously grow in your ministry by participating in religious ceremonies training sessions and reflection activities as directed.

Carry out the canonical functions of auditor and assessor according to the norms of canon law.

Assist the judges of the Tribunal in the collection of evidence in canonical trials by preparing lines of questioning conducting canonical depositions evaluating collected testimony and otherwise assisting in canonical investigations.

Assist the judges of the Tribunal by formulating an opinion on canonical cases by deliberation and by drafting judicial sentences and other canonical documents.

Assist the Judicial Vicar in providing content for Tribunal training programs.

Knowledge Skills and Abilities:

Knowledge of the structure and basic teachings of the Roman Catholic Church.

Knowledge of the canon law of marriage and the procedural law of the canonical system. This knowledge can be gained on the job but an aptitude for critical thinking and canonical reasoning is necessary.

Ability to operate various word-processing software spreadsheets and database programs.

Ability to provide excellent customer service and work effectively with staff clergy religious and laity.

Ability to organize prioritize and utilize effective time management techniques.

Ability to maintain confidentiality at all times.

Ability to carry out multiple tasks and meet deadlines.

Ability to follow instructions furnished in verbal or written format.

Ability to speak/present in front of a group.

Minimum Qualifications:

Education and Trainings:

Bachelors degree from an accredited American university or equivalent in a foreign country

Language Requirement:

Proficiency in English is required (reading writing listening and speaking).

Proficiency in Spanish is preferred (reading writing listening and speaking).

Catholic Requirement:

Must be a practicing Roman Catholic in good standing.

Licenses/Certifications:

Valid Texas drivers license.

Must maintain compliance with the Diocese of Austin Ethics and Integrity in Ministry (EIM) policies throughout the employment period.

Working Conditions:

All employees of the Diocese of Austin are engaged in ministry and closely tied to the Bishop in the exercise of his ministry and obligations to the church.

The Diocese of Austin is an at-will employer.

All buildings and vehicles owned by the Diocese of Austin are tobacco-free.

Working in a fast-paced environment with priorities and plans that may change rapidly.

Working on weekends evenings and some holidays may be required.

Will be exposed to religious ceremonies conduct and speech including Catholic Christian prayer and liturgical celebrations.

Will be required to adhere to established dress codes and conduct standards.

May be required to use personal or diocesan vehicles to drive to parishes or other off-site locations.

Traveling within and outside the diocese to meetings and other events may be required and travel may include overnight lodging.