LEGISLATIVE COORDINATOR - OOP (OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT) - SHAKMAN EXEMPT

About the Role

The Cook County Office of the President is seeking an experienced Legislative Coordinator who will serve as the department’s government affairs representative and legislative advisor. This role conducts research and provides guidance to leadership on legislative initiatives, policies, and grant matters. It analyzes proposed legislation to identify budgetary and operational impacts, advises on policy decisions, and explores state and federal funding opportunities that support County priorities. The position may also recommend innovative programs aligned with strategic goals. Because the role operates within the Office of the Cook County Board President, it involves sensitive, high-level policy work and requires confidentiality, alignment with the administration’s priorities, and an ability to navigate the political considerations inherent to the office.

Cook County is home to more than five million residents, roughly 45% of Illinois’ population, and provides a range of vital services and programs that enhance the quality of life for residents across the region.

Responsibilities

• Monitors and tracks legislation affecting the department and collaborates with the legislative team to research and analyze local, State, and Federal proposals.
• Conducts and writes legislative analysis in a timely manner and advises leadership on the potential impact of proposed legislation to determine appropriate positions.
• Works with finance staff to develop fiscal analyses and understand the impact of proposed legislation on budgets, policies, or operations.
• Reviews legislation for grant opportunities and researches innovative programs to enhance departmental functions.
• Conducts research on legislative initiatives as directed and prepares confidential reports for leadership.
• Assists in the development, support, and implementation of legislative and policy initiatives.
• Acts as the legislative liaison for the department, coordinating communication with officials and governmental units.
• Assists with the research, writing, and preparation of confidential papers and reports as assigned.
• Represents the department in legislative matters and supports interactions with the Board and other stakeholders.
• Collaborates with legal counsel team to ensure alignment on legislative strategies.
• Supports other departments on legislative matters related to County operations.
• Assists in the coordination of communications and interactions with senior leadership, other elected officials, and units of local or state government as directed.
• Works in tandem or reports to the President’s Governmental and Legislative Affairs team.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's Degree or higher.
• Two (2) years of executive administration, legislative analysis, working with government authorities, or directly related experience.
• An equivalent combination of education and/or experience may be considered.

Preferred Qualifications

• Four (4) years of executive administration, legislative analysis, or working with government authorities experience.

Skills

• Ability to converse knowledgeably and communicate effectively in writing on related matters and address complex legislative questions and issues.
• Excellent interpersonal skills in dealing with numerous individuals from various agencies as well as co-workers.
• Ability to lead and cooperate on team projects.
• Ability to analyze legislation and case law and accurately assess the potential impact of legislation upon the county and its fiscal budget.
• Ability to read and analyze a large volume of bills and resolutions.
• Skill in legislative writing and analysis as well as ability to engage in grant research and writing.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Knowledge of political processes in State and County government.
• Experience in dealing with legislators and elected officials.

Physical Requirements

Sedentary Work: involves exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally or a negligible amount of force frequently to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time but may involve walking or standing for brief periods of time.

Benefits

• Top Tier Medical Benefits: Medical Plans, Prescription Drug Benefit, Dental Plans, Vision Plan, and 9 additional voluntary benefit plans.
• Flexible Teleworking Options.
• Generous, Flexible Paid Time Off (13 paid designated holidays; minimum of 15 vacation days annually; and paid sick leave).
• Pension Plan.
• Financial Support Programs and Resources: Life Insurance, Flexible Spending Accounts – Dependent Day Care, Commuter Benefits, Discounted Parking, PSLF Eligibility, Deferred Compensation, and Education Tuition Stipend.
• Health/Wellness Perks: Flexible Spending Accounts-Health Care, Employee Assistance Program, and MyHealth Connections wellness program.

Pay

Salary Range: $87,470 - $96,607 per year.

Location

Located in the Loop District of downtown Chicago, the position offers proximity to cultural foundations, parks (e.g., Millennial Park and Maggie Daley Park), the Chicago Riverwalk, award-winning restaurants, and shopping. Chicago is serviced by multiple public transportation options, including bus and train lines, taxis, public parking garages, and bicycle share rentals.