Public Information Officer

Company Description

The Public Information Officer reports to the Union County State's Attorney.  This position receives and responds to requests for information of public record, and court subpoenas using multiple resources and streams of data to research and locate relevant information, and speaks and writes about findings, and performs related duties as required. 

Job Description

We are seeking a detail-oriented and efficient Public Information (FOIA) Officer to join our team in Jonesboro, Illinois. In this role, you will be responsible for managing Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests and ensuring timely and accurate dissemination of public information.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

• Responds to requests for information filed by citizens, journalists, and outside entities pursuant to the Illinois Freedom of Information Act (“FOIA”)
•  Researches, examines, and analyzes video and documents to provide responsive documents in response to FOIA requests and makes appropriate redactions of exempt information
• Resolves information requests within the required timeframes and where appropriate, requests extensions in writing
• Assesses whether the magnitude information requested proves burdensome in adherence with the State of Illinois Freedom of Information guidelines
• Obtains necessary information from manual, computerized, and archived files, and records
• Responds via the internet in writing to requests for information sent electronically through the internet concerning departmental programs, services, or matters of public record, as required
• Oversees and participates in the mailing of responses to written requests for information
• Maintains and updates log of all FOIA requests
• Works across all internal departments to fulfill FOIA requests when necessary
• Assist the State's Attorney in all aspects of media and public relations regarding the activities of the State's Attorney Office.

•  NOTE: The list of essential duties is not intended to be inclusive.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Public Administration, Law, Communications, or related field
• 3-5 years of experience in FOIA request processing or related field preferred
• Strong knowledge of FOIA regulations and procedures preferred
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Proficiency in records management systems and data analysis tools
• Demonstrated ability to handle sensitive information with discretion
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines
• Experience in government or public sector agencies preferred
• FOIA certification is a plus must complete electronic FOIA training on an annual basis
• Understanding of government operations and public records management
• Knowledge of privacy laws and regulations
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively with various stakeholders

Additional Information

Hybrid, part time, non-exempt position, working up to 11 hours per week

$30.87 hourly rate

The County will accept applicants until position is filled.

Union County Government is committed to nondiscrimination in hiring, promotion, discharge, pay, fringe benefits and other aspects of employment, on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, national origin, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or ancestry.