Assistant State's Attorney, Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Officer

Cook County State's Attorney Office • Chicago, IL

23h • $99,000 - $107,000 • Onsite

About The Position

The Cook County States Attorney (CCSAO) is seeking an Assistant States Attorney (ASA) team member for the Freedom of Information Act Team to work alongside the CCSAOs FOIA Officers.

Requirements

• Law degree from an accredited law school and licensed to practice in Illinois
• Exceptional organizational, case management and time management skills.
• Must be able to work independently.
• Exhibits strong attention to detail.
• Experience in managing large-scale projects, owning each detail of the process from beginning to end.
• Excellent communication skills, interpersonal skills, and ability to promote team building and be a self-starter.
• Sound judgment, critical thinking, analytical, and effective time management skills.
• Proven history of excellent performance.
• Proficient use of Adobe Acrobat, Microsoft Excel, and Microsoft Word.
• Must uphold the mission and values of the Office at all times.
• Must exercise integrity and decorum in all situations.

Nice To Haves

• The ideal candidate should have three (3) or more years of FOIA experience.
• Experience responding to the Public Access Counselor.
• Knowledge of the Freedom of Information Act and the IL Attorney Generals training and guidelines to FOIA.
• Experience with GOVQA.

Responsibilities

• Log incoming FOIA requests and track their due dates
• Review FOIA requests to determine what records are being sought from the requestor
• Work with individuals in the bureaus and branches throughout the CCSAO to locate responsive records and order all files, or otherwise gather, all necessary records
• Work with the Civil Division when necessary
• The FOIA Officer ASA will respond to correspondence in accordance with the Act and handle correspondence with the appropriate skill and care that ensures legal compliance
• Scan records (in the event we only possess hard copies of the requested records), review them for FOIA exemptions, and produce to requestor
• Draft response letters to each FOIA request that will be submitted with the records upon delivery to the requestor

Benefits

• Choose from a variety of medical, dental, and vision plans to best suit your lifestyle and needs.
• We provide a robust Paid Time Off (PTO) program, including vacation, personal, and sick leave, as well as 13 paid holidays.
• As a public service employer, our employees may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program.
• Our Employee Assistance Program offers confidential counseling and referral services to help you navigate life's challenges.
• And of course, a pension plan through Cook County.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree