The Office of State Public Defender (OSPD) will be created as an independent office within the judicial branch on January 1, 2027. The 2025 FAIR Act, Public Act 104-0300, created the Office to provide for an effective public defense system throughout the State of Illinois. OSPD is charged with implementing uniform standards for trial-level public defense; systematically evaluating local needs and capacity; offering specialized support to local jurisdictions (i.e., investigation, mitigation, and expert witness assistance); and establishing clear and equitable procedures for distributing the Public Defender Fund, among other duties to ensure consistent, equitable, and high-quality defense services.
The Chief of Staff is an executive-level position responsible for ensuring efficient and effective operations of the Office of State Public Defender (OSPD). The Chief of Staff directs the senior management team under the general supervision of the State Public Defender and works with considerable independence, exercising professional judgment.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
Minimum Qualifications:
A Bachelor’s Degree in public administration, business administration, or a related field.
Twelve years of progressively responsible experience in state or local government or business administration.
Five years of supervisory experience.
Must possess a valid Illinois Driver’s License and demonstrate proof of automobile insurance to operate a personal vehicle on state business, as well as maintain a safe driving record.
Preferred Qualifications:
A Juris Doctor degree from a law school accredited by the American Bar Association or Master’s Degree in public administration, public policy, business administration, or a related field.
Licensed to practice law in Illinois.
Three years of experience as a manager with two or more levels of professional staff under his or her administrative direction or control.
Two years of experience directing operational staff of at least 25 people.
Experience in an agency, organization or firm providing direct legal services to indigent people in the areas of criminal defense, juvenile delinquency defense, or abuse, neglect, and dependency proceedings.
To read the full job listing or apply please visit www.ilosps.gov/112/Chief-of-Staff/employment-opportunities-detail/
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