DIRECTOR OF LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS

State of Illinois•Chicago, IL

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Department of Early Childhood (IDEC) is seeking to hire a Director of Legislative Affairs for the Office of the Chief of Staff to represent the agency at the federal and state level for support of programs and initiatives that are designed to enhance early childhood development in Illinois. The ideal candidate has significant experience working with the General Assembly, legislation, and advocacy. IDEC welcomes your application of this rewarding opportunity today! Illinois Department of Early Childhood offers a robust benefit package including: Monday-Friday schedule Health, life, vision, and dental insurance Paid Parental leave Pension Plan Deferred Compensation, and other pre-tax benefit programs Employees earn (12) paid sick days annually (10-25) paid vacation days (based on years of service) Employees earn (3) paid personal days (pro-rated based on start date) (13-14) paid state holidays annually Work hours and schedule will be mutually agreed upon by supervisor during the onboarding process. 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. About the Agency:The Illinois Department of Early Childhood (IDEC) was signed into law in June of 2024 with the focus of making early childhood education and care services simpler, better and fairer for families with young children across the state. During fiscal years FY25 and FY26, IDEC will be working through transitioning data, programs and services from three state agencies – the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS), and the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE), – to IDEC in order to be fully operational by July 2026. Illinois strives to be the best state in the nation to raise a family with young children and IDEC is committed to continue putting children and families center while reducing complexities and finding efficiencies in the system and advancing equity.

Requirements

Requires the knowledge, skill and mental development equivalent to the completion of four (4) years of college.
Requires four (4) years of progressively responsible administrative experience in a public or private organization or legislative areas.
Requires the ability to pass a background check.
Requires a driver’s license.
Requires the ability to travel in the performance of duties, with overnight stays as appropriate.
Requires the ability to utilize and maintain state issued equipment such as a cell phone, laptop, etc.
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.

Nice To Haves

Prefers at least four (4) years of experience formulating policy and presenting legislative initiatives.
At least three (3) years of experience formulating, presenting, or advocating for early childhood education and care policy or legislative initiatives.
Extensive knowledge of State of Illinois programs and operational systems.
Ability to clearly communicate ideas, methods, and principles, both verbally and in writing.
Ability to develop and maintain cooperative working relationships.

Responsibilities

Acts as Director of the Office of the Legislation for the Illinois Department of Early Childhood (IDEC) and reports to the Chief of Staff.
Consults with the Chief of Staff, Administrators and the Secretary to identify priorities and to ensure the needs and desires of the Department are recognized by the General Assembly and Congress.
Directs and reviews the drafting of legislation for submission to the Governor’s Office regarding selection of sponsors for bills to be introduced.
Serves as full-line supervisor.
Serves as a liaison and spokesperson with national, regional and state organizations.
Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated above.