Communications Director (Attorney) at the Agency

Job Requisition ID:52100Closing Date: 12/23/2025Agency: Illinois Torture and Relief CommissionClass Title:PUBLIC SERVICE ADMINISTRATOR - 37015Skill Option:Special License - Illinois Law LicenseBilingual Option:NoneSalary: Anticipated Starting Salary $9400 - $10400 monthlyJob Type: SalariedCategory:Full TimeCounty: CookNumber of Vacancies: 1Bargaining Unit Code:NoneMerit Comp Code:Managerial Exclusion from RC063 Collective Bargaining CoverageA resume is required to evaluate your qualifications and skills as part of your application. Please attach a DETAILEDResume/Curriculum Vitae (CV)to theMY DOCUMENTSsection of your application.Position Overview:TIRCs Director of Communications is a managing attorney who oversees the investigation of torture claims by pro bono attorneys law student volunteers contractors and legal organizations working for the Commission. The Director of Communications also leads efforts to build relationships with community legislative and legal networks to develop and direct a robust network of community partners and legal institutions. This attorney works closely with TIRCs Executive Director and General Counsel advising on policies and procedures and drafting and editing recommendations for Commission action on claims of torture.Illinois Torture Inquiry and Relief Commission offers a robust benefit package including:Monday-Friday scheduleHealth life vision and dental insurancePaid Parental leavePension PlanDeferred Compensation and other pre-tax benefit programsEmployees earn (12) paid sick days annually(10-25) paid vacation days (based on years of service)Employees earn (3) paid personal days (pro-rated based on start date)(13-14) paid state holidays annuallyWork hours and schedule will be mutually agreed upon by supervisor during the onboarding process.Why Work for IllinoisWorking with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion equity and dedication that define our state. Whether youre helping to improve schools protect our natural resources or support families in need youre part of something biggersomething that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home.No matter what state career youre looking for we offer jobs that fit your life and your scheduleflexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois.Essential Functions Provides direct specialized legal services for the full range of Commission issues with primary emphasis on directing agency communications with law firms law schools and legal organizations that provide pro bono volunteer and contractual work for the Commission.Directs the recruitment contractual engagement and retention of counsel who advise and represent claimants waiving their constitutional rights per 775 ILCS 40/40(b) and provides managerial oversight of claimant attorneys with whom the State contracts.Responsible for consulting with General Counsel and Executive Director to manage the agency interactions with media/press members of the public elected officials and individuals including those attempting to file claims.Performs other duties as required or assigned to keep case flow moving efficiently.Minimum Qualifications Requires knowledge skill and mental development equivalent to completion of four years college.Requires prior experience equivalent to three years of progressively responsible administrative experience in a public or business organization.Requires the possession of a license to practice law in Illinois.Preferred Qualifications Prefers two (2) years of directing communications and conducting community outreach. Prefers one (1) year of criminal law experience particularly post-conviction proceedings.Prefers one (1) year of statutory and regulatory compliance experience.Prefers one (1) year of experience working with Illinois Code of Criminal Procedure Illinois Code of Civil Procedure Illinois Supreme Court Rules and/or Illinois Rules of Evidence.Prefers one (1) year of experience with Administrative Law Illinois Freedom of Information Act and Illinois Open Meetings Act.Prefers one (1) year of investigative experience including but not limited to as an attorney a reporter a factchecker an auditor or a private investigator.Conditions of Employment Overtime is a condition of employment and you may be requested or required/mandated to work overtime including scheduled unscheduled or last-minute overtime. This may require the ability to work evenings and weekends.Requires ability to travel in the performance of duties with overnight stays as appropriate.The conditions of employment listed here are incorporated and related to any of the job duties as listed in the job description.About the Agency The Illinois Torture Inquiry and Relief Commission is a state agency that was created by the Illinois Torture Inquiry and Relief Commission Act in 2009. The Act provides for an eight-member commission chaired by a former judge. The Commission began receiving claims in April 2011 and continued accepting them until the statutory deadline of August 10 2014. In 2016 the legislature re-opened the filing period through August 10 2019. The Commission is authorized by statute to gather evidence about a claim of torture occurring in Cook County and then determine whether there is sufficient credible evidence of torture to merit judicial review. To evaluate a claim the Commissions staff can serve subpoenas to compel the testimony of witnesses and the production of evidence administer oaths and use any measure provided for in Illinois civil and criminal codes of procedure. If a matter is referred to court the Circuit Court will review the case pursuant to the applicable provisions of the Post-Conviction Hearing Act and the TIRC Act. Upon review the Circuit Court may order an evidentiary hearing in order to determine whether relief (e.g. suppression of a claimants statement or a new trial) is warranted.Work Hours:Monday - Friday 8:30am-5:00pmHeadquarter Location:555 W Monroe St Chicago Illinois 60661Work County: CookAgency Contact: Samantha JuddEmail: Phone #: Posting Group: Leadership & ManagementThe main form of communication will be through email. Please check your junk mail spam or other folder for communication(s) regarding any submitted application(s). You may receive emails from the following addresses:Required Experience:Director Key Skills Crisis Management,Marketing,Public Relations,Fundraising,Media Relations,Constant Contact,Strategic Planning,Social Media Management,Team Management,Public Speaking,Wordpress,Writing Skills Employment Type : Full Time Experience: years Vacancy: 1 Monthly Salary Salary: 9400 - 10400