SENIOR LABOR COUNSEL (DEPARTMENT OF LABOR RELATIONS) SHAKMAN EXEMPT

Cook County Government; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Cook County Government is seeking a Senior Labor Counsel to provide legal advice on labor relations and employment law. The role involves collaboration with various legal entities and oversight of grievance decisions. Ideal candidates will have a Juris Doctorate and significant experience in labor relations. The position offers competitive benefits and is located in Chicago's Loop District.

Benefits

Top-tier medical plans

Flexible teleworking options

Generous paid time off

Pension

Financial support programs

Health/wellness perks

Qualifications

• At least 5 years of experience in labor relations, litigation, or related fields.
• Licensed to practice law in Illinois.

Responsibilities

• Researches legal issues and analyzes case law.
• Counsels departments on labor relations and employment law.
• Interprets collective bargaining agreements and county policies.

Skills

Negotiation

Communication

Confidentiality

Education

Juris Doctorate

Job description

SENIOR LABOR COUNSEL (DEPARTMENT OF LABOR RELATIONS) SHAKMAN EXEMPT

Join to apply for the SENIOR LABOR COUNSEL (DEPARTMENT OF LABOR RELATIONS) SHAKMAN EXEMPT role at Cook County Government

SENIOR LABOR COUNSEL (DEPARTMENT OF LABOR RELATIONS) SHAKMAN EXEMPT

3 days ago Be among the first 25 applicants

Join to apply for the SENIOR LABOR COUNSEL (DEPARTMENT OF LABOR RELATIONS) SHAKMAN EXEMPT role at Cook County Government

Overview

The Cook County Department of Labor Relations is seeking a Senior Labor Counsel to serve as a legal advisor to the bureau chief or director. This role provides guidance on statutory authority, policy, and legal implications of departmental actions, and may also handle matters related to the Freedom of Information Act. The position collaborates closely with the President’s General Counsel and the State’s Attorney’s Office on litigation, document requests, administrative reviews, and legislative matters.

Attention Applicants: Please note that as part of ongoing job architecture initiatives, the County is reviewing job titles and corresponding grades, which may be subject to change.

Why Pursue a Career with Cook County?

Benefits include top-tier medical plans, flexible teleworking options, generous paid time off, pension, financial support programs, and health/wellness perks.

Snapshot of Cook County

• Serves 5.28 million residents of Chicago and its inner suburbs, making it the 2nd largest county in the U.S.
• Employs over 22,000 staff with a large unionized workforce across 15 unions and 63 collective bargaining agreements.
• Manages extensive infrastructure and services, including roads, land assessment, and public safety.

Location

Located in Chicago's Loop District, close to cultural sites, parks, transportation, and amenities.

Role Summary

Acts as legal advisor to the bureau chief or director, interpreting legal ramifications of departmental actions, and may serve as Freedom of Information Officer. Works with legal entities on litigation, document requests, and legislative matters.

Key Responsibilities and Duties

• Researches legal issues and analyzes case law.
• Reviews employee grievance decisions and oversees Employee Appeals Board matters.
• Counsels departments on labor relations and employment law.
• Interprets collective bargaining agreements and county policies.
• Collaborates with outside counsel and evaluates policy directives.
• Represents Cook County in various forums.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong command of evidence, civil procedure, and trial advocacy.
• Ability to work independently with officials, labor groups, and legal teams.
• Knowledge of applicable laws and regulations.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and confidentiality skills.
• Acts as liaison between County offices and agencies.

Minimum Qualifications

• Juris Doctorate from an accredited law school.
• At least 5 years of experience in labor relations, litigation, or related fields.
• Licensed to practice law in Illinois.
• Knowledge of Illinois local government law, especially Cook County.

Physical Requirements

Sedentary work involving minimal physical exertion, primarily sitting, with occasional walking or standing.

Employment Terms

This is an at-will, exempt position under the Shakman Decree, with residency required within Cook County within 6 months of hire.

For inquiries, contact: [e-mail]