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 Program Administrator is a administrative professional responsible for overseeing operational, programmatic, and organizational functions within the Office of the Public Defender. The position ensures efficient service delivery to clients, supports attorneys and staff, manages program initiatives, and advances office priorities focused on equitable and effective representation.
Minimum Qualifications:
A Bachelor’s Degree in criminal justice, public administration, social work, business administration or a related field.
Five years of progressively responsible experience in state or local government or business administration.
Three or more years working with indigent and public defense.
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:
Master’s Degree in public administration, social work, criminal justice, business administration or related field.
Seven years of progressively responsible experience in state or local government or business administration.
Five or more years working with indigent and public defense.
A Juris Doctorate degree from a law school accredited by the American Bar Association or Master’s Degree in public or business administration.
To read the full job listing and apply please visit: www.ilosps.gov/120/Program-Administrator/employment-opportunities-detail/
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