COMMUNITY OUTREACH SPECIALIST (OFFICE OF THE PUBLIC DEFENDER)

Cook County • Chicago, IL

5d • $66,521 - $73,430 • Hybrid

About The Position

Engages high-risk individuals in need of criminal defense services and connects them to support provided by a multidisciplinary defense team. Serves as a trusted community liaison with established relationships within the communities served. Builds and maintains trusted community relationships to facilitate outreach, engagement, and access to legal and supportive services. Supports client engagement and program participation by connecting individuals to legal and supportive resources.

Requirements

• Possession of a High School Diploma or General Education Development (GED) Certificate
• Six (6) years of experience in community outreach, violence prevention, street outreach, youth engagement, case support services, community organizing, mediation, or directly related experience is required or An equivalent combination of education and/or experience is required.
• Ability to understand and follow safety/security practices.
• Ability to work in high-pressure situations.
• Ability to travel to various work locations throughout Cook County.

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge of crisis intervention and mediation techniques.
• Ability to provide moderate-level insight, advice and expertise to other professionals, management, and external contacts in an assigned functional area.
• Ability to operate as a team player and communicate specialized knowledge to team members, managers, and external stakeholders.
• Knowledge of moderately complex principles and practices for a specialized area of focus.

Responsibilities

• Engages high-risk individuals in need of criminal defense services and connects them to support provided by a multidisciplinary defense team.
• Serves as a trusted community liaison with established relationships within the communities served.
• Builds and maintains trusted community relationships to facilitate outreach, engagement, and access to legal and supportive services.
• Supports client engagement and program participation by connecting individuals to legal and supportive resources.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, and Vision
• Basic Term Life Insurance
• Pension Plan
• Deferred Compensation Program
• Employee Assistance Program
• Paid Holidays, Vacation, and Sick Time
• Voluntary Benefits
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF)

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED