SENIOR LEGAL COUNSEL

POSITION: Senior Legal Counsel

DEPARTMENT: Human Resources

REPORTS TO: Chief Human Resources Officer

SALARY: $110,820 - $135,446

Overview

The Bureau of Human Resources seeks a Senior Legal Counsel to serve as employment counsel and legal advisor to the Bureau Chief or Director in all matters related to the statutory authority and execution of the department's powers, as well as in all aspects of legal matters related to employment law.

This role works with the President’s Counsel and State’s Attorneys Office as necessary in order to evaluate litigation, respond to document requests, prepare for matters related to administrative review and address opinions related to federal, state or local legislation. The position also functions as direct legal aide to the director or bureau chief as required.

Cook County offers great benefits and the chance to participate in a strong tradition of public service. Cook County is home to more than five million residents, roughly 45% of Illinois’ population. Cook County Government provides a range of vital services and programs that enhance the quality of life for residents across the region. These services range from health care to urban planning. Cook County is committed to empowering its employees to bring our constituents the best that public service has to offer.

LOCATION:

Located in the Loop District of downtown Chicago, one of the most formidable business districts in the world, the area has an astounding number of cultural foundations, stunning parks such as Millennial Park and Maggie Daley Park, steps away from the Chicago Riverwalk, award-winning restaurants and plenty of shopping! In addition, Chicago is serviced by multiple bus and train lines for public transportation from the suburbs to the city, taxis are plentiful, public parking garages for motorist, and bicycle share rentals and local bike lanes for bicyclist.

ROLE SUMMARY

Acts as legal advisor and employment counsel to the bureau chief or director in all matters related to the statutory authority and execution of powers of that department, bureau or departments within bureau; also functions as direct legal aide to the director or bureau chief as required. Provides assistance in interpreting the legal ramifications of proposals, policy directives and other actions planned or undertaken by department, bureau or County Board. May serve in the capacity of Freedom of Information Officer or advise on matters related to the Freedom of Information Act. Works with the President’s Counsel and State’s Attorneys Office as necessary in order to evaluate litigation, respond to document requests, prepare for matters related to administrative review and address opinions related to federal, state or local legislation. Consults with the President’s Counsel and the Office of the Cook County State’s Attorney as required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Thorough and extensive knowledge of the law as it pertains to local and municipal government in Illinois, particularly with respect to Cook County government and the Chicago Metropolitan area including unincorporated areas of Cook County.
• Skills in researching, interpreting and arguing law as it pertains to the responsibility and authority of the department; likewise, skilled in the legal analysis and interpretation of the rules, regulations, laws, ordinances and resolutions of the Cook County Board.
• Transactional legal experience.
• Ability to coordinate any of the above in connection with the State’s Attorney and/or other designated counsel.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Graduation from an accredited School of Law with a Juris Doctorate degree PLUS, seven (7) years or greater professional work experience as an attorney dealing with matters of civil law, government, or corporate transactions AND, a licensed to practice law in the State of Illinois.

HOW TO APPLY: Please submit a Resume and Cover letter to: [email protected]

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Sedentary Work involves exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally or a negligible amount of force frequently to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time, but may involve walking or standing for brief periods of time.

The duties listed are not set forth for purposes of limiting the assignment of work. They are not to be construed as a complete list of the many duties normally to be performed under a job title or those to be performed temporarily outside an employee’s normal line of work.

EMPLOYMENT TERMS

POST OFFER TESTING: This position requires successful completion of post-offer tests, which may include a background check, drug screen and medical examination.

RESIDENCY REQUIREMENT: Pursuant to the Shakman Consent Decree, Supplemental Relief Order and the Cook County Personnel Rules, this position is exempt from the County’s career service rules, is at-will and political reasons or factors may be considered when taking any employment action. As an employee in a Shakman Exempt Position, if you do not currently live in Cook County, you will have six (6) months from date of hire to establish actual residency within Cook County.