Corrections Chief of Operations
Springfield, IL, US, 62701
Job Requisition ID: 48933
Closing Date: 08/12/2025
Agency: Department of Corrections
Class Title: SENIOR PUBLIC SERVICE ADMINISTR - 40070
Skill Option: Law Enforcement/Correctional
Bilingual Option: None
Salary: Dependent upon qualifications (Range $165,000-$180,000)
Job Type: Salaried
Category: Full Time
County: Sangamon
Number of Vacancies: 1
Bargaining Unit Code: None
Merit Comp Code: Exempt under Section 4d of the Personnel Code, Gubernatorial (Management Bill)
****************A RESUME IS REQUIRED FOR THIS JOB POSTING****************
Please attach a DETAILED Resume/Curriculum Vitae (CV) to the MY DOCUMENTS section of your application. You WILL NOT be considered for the position if you attach a CMS100, CMS100b or any other document that is not a Resume or CV.
The Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) is seeking a Statewide Chief of Operations. This position provides strategic direction and leadership in developing, interpreting, and enforcing operational policies and procedures across the state correctional system. This position ensures that all operations are conducted in compliance with applicable laws, regulations, consent decrees and departmental policies, and applicable accreditation standards, while prioritizing safety, security, efficiency, and rehabilitation objectives. It ensures accountability, continuity, and operational excellence while also serving as a key member of the department's Executive Staff. As an agency representative, strong communication skills are required to provide testimony before legislative and other governmental bodies on operational issues and strategic initiatives, including proposed legislation and capital development projects. Serves as a liaison to the Governor’s Office, state agencies, local governments, and external stakeholders. Ensures Departmental interests are communicated effectively and supported through clear, informed, and data-driven policy positions.
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.
Essential Functions
- Serves as the statewide Chief of Operations.
- As statewide Chief of Operations, formulates and implements fiscal control policies and procedures.
- Manages the statewide operations and provides guidance to staff on the coordination and integration of all IDOC security operations and special initiatives to ensure overall accountability and responsibility.
- Testifies before legislative body regarding program-related issues and operational factors regarding new facilities.
- Serves as full-line supervisor.
- Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated above.
Minimum Qualifications
- Requires knowledge, skill, and mental development equivalent to completion of four (4) years of college, preferably with courses in law enforcement, criminology, penology, or a related field.
- Requires four (4) years of progressively responsible administrative experience in public law enforcement organization or private law enforcement organization, a correctional facility, or related field
Employment Conditions
- Requires ability to travel in the performance of duties, with overnight stays as appropriate. Requires appropriate, valid driver’s license.
- Requires the ability to be on-call.
- Requires ability to carry a firearm.
- Requires use of agency-supplied technology.
- 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.
- 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.
- Required to utilize digital technology, tools, platforms, and processes in managing and supporting various digital enhancements for greater efficiency, productivity, and digital transformation efforts within the department.
- Requires the ability to pass the IDOC/IDJJ background check.
- Requires the ability to pass a drug screen. The use of unauthorized drugs by an employee, regardless of the position held is prohibited.
- Applicants are required to abide by all vaccine and/or other medical standards as set out by the employer.
- The conditions of employment listed here are incorporated and related to any of the job duties as listed in this job.
Work Hours: 8:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Work Location: 319 East Madison Street, Suite A, Springfield, IL 62701
Agency Contact: Lisa.Devert@Illinois.gov
Posting Group: Leadership & Management; Public Safety
The Illinois Department of Corrections is a multicultural agency deeply committed to ensuring diversity, equity, and inclusion. This commitment is at the forefront of our operations, hiring, policies and procedures, and training. We recognize the benefit of workplace empowerment, the importance of diversity and fully support an environment where ALL employees are treated fairly, respectfully, and have equal access to opportunities and resources necessary to thrive and contribute to the agency’s success. IDOC genuinely values the differences of individuals in our custody and is committed to ensuring a healthy living environment where they feel valued, respected, and included. Through our commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), we shall establish and uphold agency policies and practices conducive to eliminating all forms of exclusion including, but not limited to, racism, ageism, ableism, sexism, discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender, and religious oppression. The IDOC team works to serve justice in Illinois and increase public safety by promoting positive change in behavior of individuals in custody, operating successful reentry programs, and reducing victimization. Employees enjoy excellent benefits, including health, vision, and dental insurance; retirement plan and deferred compensation; state holidays and other benefit time off; and pre-tax benefit programs. The department also offers extensive training and career advancement opportunities. The Illinois Department of Corrections is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.
As a IDOC employee, you are entitled to a robust benefits package that includes:
· Flexible work schedules in some program areas (flexible time and hybrid options)
· Health, life, vision, and dental insurance
· 12 weeks paid maternity/paternity leave
· Pension Plan – vesting at 10 years for Tier II
· Full 20-year retirement awards free health insurance during retirement
· Deferred compensation and other pre-tax benefits programs
· Paid state holidays 13-14 days annually
· 3 Paid Personal Business Days annually
· 12 Paid Sick Days annually (Sick days carry over from year to year)
· 10-25 Days of Paid Vacation time annually - (10 days in year one of employment)
· Personal, sick, and vacation rates modified for 12-hour work schedules. (As applicable.)
· Employee Assistance Program and/or mental health resources
· For more information about our benefits please follow this link: https://www2.illinois.gov/cms/benefits/Pages/default.aspx
Nearest Major Market: Springfield