Senior Legal Counsel; Department Of Transportation & Highways - Shakman Exempt

Position: SENIOR LEGAL COUNSEL (DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION & HIGHWAYS) - SHAKMAN EXEMPT
Overview

Cook County Department of Transportation & Highways is seeking a Senior Legal Counsel to serve as a legal advisor on matters impacting the bureau/department. This role provides guidance on the legal implications of proposals, policy directives, and other planned actions, and may serve as the Freedom of Information Officer or advise on FOIA-related matters. The Senior Legal Counsel works closely with County bureaus, departments, and agencies to evaluate litigation, respond to document requests, prepare for administrative reviews, and address opinions related to federal, state, or local legislation.

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.

Attention Applicants:
Please note that as part of ongoing job architecture initiatives, the County is reviewing job titles and corresponding grades, which may be subject to change.

Why pursue a career with Cook County?

In addition to providing employees with a challenging, rewarding environment for career and personal growth, we are proud to also offer some of the best benefits in the public sphere, including:

• Top Tier Medical Benefits:
Medical Plans, Prescription Drug Benefit, Dental Plans, Vision Plan and 9 Additional voluntary benefit plans

• Flexible Teleworking Options

• Generous, Flexible Paid Time Off (13 paid designated holidays; Minimum of 15 vacation days annually; and Paid sick leave)

• Pension Plan

• Financial Support Programs and Resources:
Life Insurance, Flexible Spending Accounts - Dependent Day Care, Commuter Benefits, Discounted Parking, PSLF Eligibility, Deferred Compensation and Education Tuition Stipend

• Health/Wellness Perks:
Flexible Spending Accounts‑Health Care, Employee Assistance Program and MyHealth Connections wellness program.

Salary Range

$128,070 - $156,530/yearly

Snapshot of Cook County

• Serves 5.28 million residents of Chicago and its inner suburbs
- 2nd largest county in America
- Larger than 27 states

• Cook County employs over 22,000 employees who work in a variety of skilled jobs and trades.
- Nearly 80% unionized workforce
- 15 unions represented
- 63 separate collective bargaining agreements

• Highway - Cook County maintains almost 600 miles of roads and highways.

• Land - Cook County assesses the value of more than 1.5 million parcels of taxable land and collects and distributes tax funds as a service for local government taxing bodies.

• Safety - Cook County provides vital services to local government, from conducting elections in suburban areas to offering 911 services in unincorporated areas and municipalities.

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 counsel to the bureau/department. Provides assistance in interpreting the legal ramifications of proposals, policy directives and other actions planned or undertaken by the bureau/department 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 bureau/departments and agencies 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…