EXECUTIVE I - Certification Specialist

Position Overview

The Illinois Law Enforcement Training & Standards Board invites qualified applicants to apply for the position of Certification Specialist.  This position will prepare, maintain, and update officer files including appointments, separations, training waivers, certifications, complaints, investigations, discipline, mandatory training, and rosters.  This individual will also maintain open lines of communication throughout the Division and with the Investigators and Certification Specialists throughout the state. Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Outlook, Excel & Internet applications is strongly preferred.  The ideal candidate for this position will have the ability to work in a fast-paced environment, be highly organized, and be capable of multi-tasking to keep up with the demands of a busy and growing agency. ILETSB is conveniently located in Springfield with a satellite office in Chicago and free parking on-site at both locations. Employees enjoy excellent benefits, including health, vision, and dental insurance; a retirement plan and deferred compensation options; state holidays and other time off; flexible work schedules; and pre-tax benefit programs.

Essential Functions

• Under direction of the Lead Certification Specialist, organizes, plans, executes, controls and evaluates the operation of the certification and professional standards program including:
• Receives and reviews waiver applications and records submitted by law enforcement administrators.
• Serves as liaison for the Deputy Director of Professional Standards, maintaining working relationships with law enforcement agencies and the public.
• Coordinates and maintains confidential data regarding discretionary and automatic decertification of police officers in accordance with State law.
• Administers the highly confidential State Law Enforcement and Corrections Certification Exams and the Crash Reconstruction Exam.
• Communicates regularly with other Certification Specialists, Intake Specialists, Certification Assistants, and Field Investigators across all areas in the state regarding matters of officer certification and professional standards. 
• 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 coursework in business or public administration.
• Requires one (1) year of responsible administrative experience in a public or business organization, or completion of an agency approved professional management training program.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prefers one (1) year of experience utilizing the principles and practices of public and business administration.
• Prefers one (1) year of practical experience with and knowledge of the functions of state government and of the character of relationships between the executive branch with other branches, and between the State and higher and lower levels of government.
• Prefers the ability to analyze administrative problems and adopt an effective course of action.
• Prefers the ability to exercise sound judgment and discretion in developing, implementing, and interpreting departmental policies and procedures.
• Prefers a proven ability to develop and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with both intra-agency staff and with officers and administrators from law enforcement agencies around the State of Illinois.
• Prefers the ability to demonstrate a strong proficiency in Microsoft Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, Excel, and Internet applications.

Conditions of Employment

• Overtime is a condition of employment, and you may be requested or required/mandated to work overtime including scheduled, unscheduled, or last-minute overtime. This requires the ability to work evenings and weekends.
• This position is considered sedentary work as defined by the U.S. Department of Labor (20 CFR 404.1567(a)). Sedentary work involves lifting no more than 10 pounds at a time and requires occasional lifting, carrying, walking, and standing.
• Ability to pass a criminal background check.
• The conditions of employment listed here are incorporated and related to any of the job duties as listed in the job description.

About the Agency

The Illinois Law Enforcement Training & Standards Board is the state agency mandated to promote and maintain a high level of professional standards for law enforcement and correctional officers. Its purpose is to promote and protect citizen health, safety, and welfare by encouraging municipalities, counties, and other governmental agencies in their efforts to upgrade and maintain a high level of training and standards for law enforcement personnel. The Board is responsible for developing and providing quality training and education, setting professional standards, and aiding in the establishment of adequate facilities. By constantly adapting to changes in technology, the ever-changing face of crime in the United States, and society's demands on those entrusted with the responsibility of enforcing its laws, the Board plays a crucial role in the professionalization of policing in Illinois. The Board is an equal opportunity employer and is dedicated to building and maintaining a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workforce. The Law Enforcement Training & Standards Board is a drug-free workplace.