ASSISTANT CHIEF COUNSEL (TECHNICAL ADVISOR V)

Why Work for Illinois?

Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether you’re helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you’re part of something bigger—something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home.

No matter what state career you’re looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule—flexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois.

Position Overview

This position is responsible for legal and legislative research, analysis, investigation, and defense and advises the Chief Counsel, Deputy Chief Counsel, and Senior Assistant Chief Counsel on matters of law in the department’s operations including legislation, litigation, contractual, statutory, administrative, and regulatory functions.

Essential Functions

• Provides the Office of Chief Counsel with prompt and accurate research for the Chief Counsel and managing attorneys to make the best decisions regarding the subject matter of assignments.
• Maintains current knowledge about department statutory authority and other applicable laws, rules, orders, and policies affecting the department’s operations.
• Provides legal opinions regarding issues raised by various offices of the department as assigned.
• Provides legal direction and control for the collection of data and documentation, analysis thereof, and representation assistance for contract and other claims at the administrative level and when filed in the Illinois Court of Claims.
• Reviews title and condemnation documentation for department right of way purchases.
• Provides legal support for resolving construction contracts, general procurement, permits, grant writing, and administration issues.
• Provides assistance and support services to the Office of the Attorney General and outside counsel representing the department in litigation.
• Performs duties in compliance with departmental safety rules. Performs all duties in a manner conducive to the fair and equitable treatment of all employees.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Graduation from an accredited law school.
• Possession of a valid license to practice law in Illinois.
• Two years of professional experience in the practice of law.

Preferred Qualifications

• Extensive recent experience working as an attorney in a law firm, corporate law department, or government agency legal department.
• Knowledge of and experience with areas of law such as real property, construction, environmental, procurement, grants, and or transportation.
• Civil litigation experience in Illinois courts.
• Ability to maintain harmonious relationships with executive staff, coworkers, and the general public.
• Ability to be flexible with assignments and responsibilities.
• Willingness to research and study various areas of law.
• Ability to plan and organize workload and meet deadlines.
• Ability to competently utilize Microsoft Office applications.

Conditions of Employment

• The conditions of employment listed here are incorporated and related to any of the job duties as listed in the job description.
• Valid driver's license.
• Occasional statewide travel which may include some overnight stays.
• Successful completion of a background screening.
• Certain provisions of the revolving door restrictions contained in 5 ILCS 430/5-45 apply to this position. As a result, the employee should be aware that if offered non-State employment during state employment or within one year immediately after ending State employment, the employee shall, prior to accepting any such non-State employment offer, notify the Office of the Executive Inspector General for the Agencies of the Illinois Governor (OEIG) or may be subject to a fine.
• This position has been found to meet the requirements in section 4A-101 of the Illinois Governmental Ethics Act requiring the occupant/employee to file a Statement of Economic Interest. The Illinois Governmental Ethics Act (5 ILCS 420/4A et seq.) requires certain state officials and employees to file annual Statements of Economic Interest with the Office of the Secretary of State that will be made available for examination and copying by the public. All employees required to file a Statement of Economic Interest are also required to file the Supplemental Statement of Economic Interest with the Executive Ethics Commission. (See Executive Order 15-09) Fines and penalties apply to untimely filings.