Special Assistant for Government & Legislative Affairs- District 3

Cook County•Chicago, IL

3d•Onsite

About The Position

Serves as the in-house governmental affairs and legislative advisor to the Commissioner regarding federal, state, or local legislative matters and initiatives. Coordinates the Board’s approach and response to various legislative matters and works with the various departments, elected offices, and agencies to coordinate the Board’s position. Performs research and advisory functions related to legislative initiatives. May assist in conducting research regarding available funding for programs that Cook County may be eligible to apply for and advises the First Assistant Commissioner and the Commissioner of potentially innovative programs that may improve the respective Department or County initiative. The Special Assistant for Governmental & Legislative Affairs is privy to information sensitive and confidential in nature, that is necessary to complete assignments for the department.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in political science, public administration, law, or related field.
3-5 years of experience in government affairs, public policy, or legislative work.
Experience analyzing, drafting, or researching legislation or working on behalf of or before a governmental agency.
Strong understanding of legislative processes and governmental structures.
Knowledge of political processes in State and County government including knowledge of the role and responsibilities of elected officials, state, local and county government agencies, legislators, and lobbyists.
Project management skills: ability to lead and cooperate on team projects.
Excellent interpersonal skills in dealing with internal and external stakeholders.
Skilled in legislative writing and analysis as well as grant research and writing.
Ability to analyze complex legislation and case law and accurately assess the potential impact of legislation upon the board or county and its fiscal budget.
Ability to read and analyze a large volume of bills and resolutions.
Knowledge of the Microsoft Office Suite, including Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint and other advanced office software is required.

Nice To Haves

Master or Juris Doctorate degree preferred.

Responsibilities

Directs, coordinates, and supervises the legislative efforts of the Department.
Recommends and provides fiscal analysis with supporting data to the Commissioner, First Assistant Commissioner, and departments to assist in setting policy and making decisions concerning legislative initiatives.
Develops legislative initiatives and drafts legislative analysis for proposed legislation regarding bills that will have a potential impact on the County and/or the Department.
Reviews and advises the Commissioner, the First Assistant Commissioner, or his/her designee of constitutional, legal, and budgetary issues by proposed Federal and State legislation.
Research Federal and State legislation to find opportunities for funding innovative grant programs that align with the goals for improvement of the County.
Represents the District before legislative tribunals as directed by the Commissioner, the First Commissioner, or his/her designee and Serves as a liaison between lobbyists in Springfield and the Commissioner.
Participates and assists in the development of highly confidential papers and reports.
Provides analytical and specialized administrative support to relieve Executive Assistant of and/or assist with complex details and advanced administrative duties.
Research various legislative initiatives, around Illinois and in other jurisdictions, at the direction of the First Assistant Commissioner and the Commissioner or his/her designee for their review.
Participate and assist in the development of other confidential papers, policy recommendations, and reports as directed by the First Assistant Commissioner and the Commissioner or his/her designee.
Advance and uphold policies, procedures, mission, values and standards of ethics and integrity.