Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Officer

Cook County State's Attorney Office • Chicago, IL

1d • $81,000 - $92,000 • Onsite

About The Position

The Cook County States Attorney (CCSAO) is seeking a FOIA Officer for the Freedom of Information Act Team to work alongside the CCSAOs FOIA Officers in processing requests made under the Freedom of Information Act.

Requirements

• A bachelors or associates degree in any liberal arts, criminal justice, law, legal studies, or another related field.
• Exceptional organizational, case management and time management skills.
• Must be able to work independently.
• Experience in managing large-scale projects.
• Excellent communication skills, interpersonal skills, and ability to promote team building and be a self-starter.
• Proficient use of Adobe Acrobat, Microsoft Excel, and Microsoft Word.

Nice To Haves

• Three (3) or more years of FOIA experience.
• Law Degree from an accredited law school.
• 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 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
• Uphold the mission and values of the SAO at all times
• Exhibit strong attention to detail.
• Exercise integrity and decorum in all situations
• Perform additional duties and responsibilities as needed or required

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: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree