Director of Policy

Job Title: Director of Policy

Reports to: Chief/Deputy Chief of Policy and External Affairs

Location: 69 W. Washington

Division/Unit: Executive Staff

Salary Range: $150,000 - $180,000

Application deadline: March 20, 2026

Position Description:

The Director of Policy supports the development and execution of strategies to implement policy and new initiatives that align with the Cook County State's Attorney's mission and objectives. The Director provides strategic policy guidance, including conducting research, drafting, creating implementation plans, and promoting best practice policies that support prosecutors and promote public safety.

Working Environment and Reporting Structure:

The Director of Policy may be assigned to 69 W. Washington and/or 2650 S. California. The Director of Policy will report to the Chief/Deputy of Policy and External Affairs. The Director of Policy shall be an effective advocate and emissary of the mission, vision and values of the Cook County State's Attorney's Office.

Duties/Responsibilities:

The Director of Policy drafts new policies and protocols at the direction of the Chief of Policy and External Affairs. The Director of Policy manages the implementation of those policies and protocols, ensuring timely and effective execution. The Director of Policy may represent the CCSAO in meetings and other public forums, and coordinates meetings between the CCSAO and external partners to communicate prosecutorial perspectives and concerns. The Director of Policy also assists with the creation and implementation of new CCSAO strategic initiatives.

Minimum Qualifications:

• A law degree is required with at least five years of experience in the practice of criminal law.
• Significant experience with prosecutions that involve complex issues.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, including the ability to translate complex legal and policy concepts into clear messaging.
• Must be highly motivated and have strong leadership skills and the ability to promote team building.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Commitment to the mission and values of the CCSAO.

Preferred Experience:

• Prior experience in public policy, criminal justice advocacy, legislative affairs or community/government relations.
• Prior experience drafting policies, protocols or best practice guidelines for prosecutors, police, victim advocates or criminal justice partners.
• Active participation on collaborative boards, task forces, or multidisciplinary teams.

Equal Employment Opportunity

EEO Message: The Cook County State's Attorney's Office (CCSAO) is an equal opportunity employer, which seeks to recruit, develop, and retain the most talented people from a diverse candidate pool. The CCSAO does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, age, physical and mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, and any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. Upon request, the CCSAO will provide reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals due to a disability or pregnancy. The EEOP report can be found on our website at www.cookcountystatesattorney.org.