Job Opportunities

Bureau Chief - Disability Rights - Chicago

Title: Bureau Chief - Disability Rights

Division: Public Interest

Location: Chicago

The mission of the Disability Rights Bureau is to protect and advance the interests of persons with disabilities in Illinois. The Bureau enforces state and federal laws that protect the rights of people with disabilities and is specifically charged with enforcing the Environmental Barriers Act, 410 ILCS 25/1, et seq. and the Illinois Accessibility Code, 71 Ill. Admin. Code 400.110 et seq., which ensure physical access to public facilities and multi-unit housing for people with disabilities. When an investigation confirms that a state or federal disability rights law has been violated, the Bureau attempts to amicably resolve the complaint. When this is not possible, the Bureau may file a lawsuit seeking injunctive relief, damages and fines in the name of the People of the State of Illinois.

The Bureau also provides technical assistance, information and referral services to persons with disabilities and public and private entities seeking to comply with disability rights laws. In this role, the Bureau responds to questions from people with disabilities, professionals, business owners, school districts, community groups, employers and others regarding their rights and responsibilities under local, state and federal disability laws. In some instances, Bureau staff will advocate for the provision of services or accommodations on behalf of a person with a disability. The Disability Rights Bureau is also engaged in training law enforcement personnel, proposing legislative amendments, commenting on policy and advising on amicus curiae briefs with the goal of improving the lives of individuals with disabilities.

The next Bureau Chief should have at least 10 years experience, be a skilled litigator, be committed to aggressively enforcing state and federal Disability laws, and have excellent communication and management skills. Specifically, the Bureau Chief must be able to effectively manage a team of lawyers and support staff, provide and be receptive to feedback, interact well with other supervisors and Administration and be involved in day to day operations of the Bureau. In addition, the Bureau Chief must be able to work with the Disability Rights community and foster a spirit of communication and responsiveness.

Salary: Commensurate with qualifications and experience.

To ensure full consideration, please send cover letter, resume, references and writing sample to:

Ruta Stropus
Director of Professional Development
Attn: Adelaida Otero
Office of the Attorney General
100 West Randolph, 12th Floor
Chicago, Illinois 60601
(312) 814-3695
(312) 814-5024 (Fax)