Lake County, IL – Staff Psychologist

GovHRUSA; Waukegan (IL); On-site; USD 94,194 - 104,660; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Pension

Deferred compensation plans

Job summary

A government organization in Illinois is seeking a qualified Staff Psychologist for its Psychological Services Division. The role involves conducting psychological evaluations and providing therapy to adult probation clients. Candidates require a Ph.D. or Psy.D., with a minimum of one year of post-doctoral clinical experience and valid Illinois licensure. Competitive salary range is $94,194–$104,660 based on qualifications. The deadline for applications is February 20, 2026, with all necessary documents to be submitted.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Psy.D required for clinical psychology.
• At least one year of post-doctoral clinical experience.
• Must be licensed in Illinois as a Clinical Psychologist.

Responsibilities

• Conduct fitness-to-stand trial evaluations.
• Provide individual and group therapy services.
• Complete certificates for involuntary psychiatric hospitalization.

Skills

Substance abuse treatment knowledge

Trauma-Informed Care

Clinical supervision

Psychological assessments

DSM-5/DSM-5TR diagnosis

Written and verbal communication

Education

Ph.D. or Psy.D in Clinical Psychology

1 year post-doctoral clinical experience

Job description

Overview

Lake County, IL (population 714,342) located in northeastern Illinois along the shore of Lake Michigan, is seeking a qualified Staff Psychologist for the Nineteenth Judicial Circuit to join its Psychological Services Division. Under the limited supervision of the Director of Psychological Services, the Staff Psychologist conducts psychological evaluations and provides therapeutic services in support of the Lake County Courts. This position works closely with probation staff to address the clinical and psychological needs of adult probation clients. The Psychological Services Division conducts on average 200-300 evaluations per year. Please visit the Nineteenth Judicial Circuit Court website for more information.

Lake County is a large, complex organization consisting of over 30 departments and divisions, including law enforcement, public health, transportation, public works, criminal justice, and emergency management. While the County is professionally managed by an appointed County Administrator, which has 2,629 full-time employees, all positions within the Nineteenth Judicial Circuit report directly to the Chief Judge. Payroll and benefits are administered by Lake County. This is an excellent opportunity for a licensed psychologist interested in forensic and clinical work within a court-based setting, serving a diverse adult population with complex mental health needs.

Lake County offers a dynamic and collaborative work environment where you can make a meaningful impact on the community. You will work with a diverse and engaged team in an organization that values fiscal responsibility, innovation, and forward-thinking strategies. The area boasts an excellent work-life balance, with access to recreational spaces, top-rated schools, and Chicago cultural and entertainment options just a short drive away.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Conduct fitness-to-stand trial evaluations.
• Conduct comprehensive psychological evaluations for defendants waiting to be sentenced.
• Conduct psychological evaluations of adult probationers.
• Provide individual and group therapy services to adult probation clients.
• Provide crisis intervention to probation clients when needed and triage cases.
• Complete certificates for involuntary psychiatric hospitalization of probation clients when necessary.
• Provide psychoeducational groups based on evidence-based practices to adults on probation that include anger management, parenting skills, and others as assigned/needed.
• Provide clinical supervision to psychology practicum students.
• Provide consultations to Probation Officers regarding clinical issues involving probationers.
• Conduct in-service training for probation staff on psychology-related topics.
• Seek out and attend professional conferences and training workshops for personal development.

Qualifications and Experience

• The successful candidate will have a strong interest in working with dual-diagnosis clients.
• Possess knowledge/experience in the field of substance abuse treatment and Trauma-Informed Care.
• Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of the administration and interpretation of psychological assessments.
• Demonstrate the ability to make accurate DSM-5/DSM-5TR diagnoses.
• Have the ability to supervise and train psychology interns and other staff.
• Develop and maintain cooperative working relationships with staff and clients.
• Demonstrate knowledge of best clinical practices and treatment.
• Demonstrate competent written and verbal communications while having the ability to work independently.

Education and Licensure

• Ph.D. or Psy.D in Clinical Psychology.
• A minimum of 1 year of post-doctoral clinical experience and licensed in Illinois as a Clinical Psychologist.
• Certification or become certified by the Administrative Office of the Illinois Courts (AOIC).

Other Requirements

• The appointed candidate must be a United States Citizen and reside in either Illinois or Wisconsin.
• The successful candidate must possess a valid driver’s license and pass a criminal background check.
• This position requires prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer. Additionally, one must be able to lift up to 25 pounds on an as-needed basis and have moderate ability to operate office equipment.

Compensation and Benefits

The starting salary range for this position is $94,194-$104,660 depending on qualifications and experience. Employees who meet eligibility requirements will have access to Lake County's competitive benefits package including health, dental, vision, life insurance, pension, deferred compensation plans, and transportation. Please visit the Employee Benefits Information for Prospective Employees for further information. Candidates should apply by February 20, 2026, with resume, cover letter and contact information for five work-related references to the attention of Marc Hornstein, MGT Senior Consultant, Tel: [phone] ext. 178.

Lake County is an equal opportunity employer.

Application Deadline

February 20, 2026

Posted: 2026-01-22