Legal Investigator (Office of Inspector General)

Title: Legal Investigator – Office of the Inspector General

CHARACTERISTICS OF THE CLASS: The mission of the Office of Inspector General (OIG) includes investigating allegations of fraud, waste and misconduct by Chicago Park District employees, Board members, contractors, agents, or volunteers and monitoring the Park District’s compliance with the Employment Plan’s rules governing hiring and other employment actions.

Under the general supervision of the Deputy Inspector General, this position: (1) conducts confidential investigations; (2) collects evidence and makes recommendations based on findings; and (3) performs related duties as assigned or required.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Interviews complainants, witnesses, and employees to gather facts in order to investigate cases of employee misconduct and fraud
• Conducts site visits to collect documents and physical evidence and performs analysis of documents and evidence collected
• Uses photographic and video equipment in the course of surveillance work to observe acts of employee misconduct
• Prepares comprehensive written reports on activities performed in the course of each investigation
• Attends case review meetings
• Updates and maintains case files and case management system in order to report on the status of assigned investigations
• Maintains highest level of confidentiality of OIG-related files, information, and records
• Performs complaint intake duties: documents initial complaints; reviews complaint information; and develops investigative strategies
• Coordinates investigative activities with other agencies
• Makes recommendations based on investigative findings
• Testifies in court, at arbitrations or hearings on investigation findings
• Performs related duties as assigned or required

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Training and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university or 10 years of investigatory experience.
• Minimum of one (1) year of work experience in the performance of fact-finding analysis and investigative research and reporting work, or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience (e.g. graduation from accredited law school) provided that the minimum Bachelor's degree requirement is met.
• Aptitude and ability to handle cases of moderate complexity (e.g. multiple subjects and/or multiple allegations).
• License Requirement: Must possess a valid State of Illinois Class D or equivalent driver’s license.
• Ability to be flexible and adjust availability during non-operating hours based on investigative needs.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Refined judgment with the ability to manage highly sensitive and confidential information
• Strong skills in the areas of conflict resolution, problem-solving techniques, interviewing, and investigation
• Exceptional analytical and critical thinking skills demonstrated by the ability to analyze information and facilitate resolution of difficult challenges, including the ability to handle issues of complex and extreme sensitivity
• Demonstrated superior ability to write concise, logical and analytical reports to convey complex issues
• Demonstrated ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple deadlines and work independently while maintaining high levels of organization
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work with diverse constituents, including children, staff, and law enforcement
• Ability to research and analyze data
• Skill in gathering statements and other evidence in an impartial manner
• Ability to testify in court, at arbitrations or hearings in a clear and concise manner

BENEFITS: As a full-time Chicago Park District employee, eligible employees receive a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Competitive Group Insurance benefits including health, life, dental and vision plans.
• Flexible work schedules (when available and dependent upon position).
• 13-20 days of paid vacation time annually (13 days for first year of employment).
• 12 days of paid sick time annually which carryover year to year.
• 4 paid personal days per year.
• 13 paid holidays per year.
• 12 weeks of paid parental leave (contingent upon FMLA eligibility)
• Pension plan through the Park Employees' and Retirement Board Employees' Annuity and Benefit Fund, a system covered by the State of Illinois' Reciprocal Act.
• Deferred Compensation Program – voluntary supplemental retirement plan.
• Optional pre-tax programs – Transit
• Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program eligibility.
• Free Admission to most Chicago museums.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT:

General work area is indoors however, exposure to outdoor weather conditions is probable. Exposure to loud noise, fumes, or dust. Exposure to hostile and potentially violent situations. Perform tasks that involve the use of hands to finger, handle, or feel, reaching, walking, bending, stooping, standing, kneeling, climbing, reaching, and sitting. Performs lifting tasks up to 25 pounds

Disclaimer:

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. Job duties are to be performed with or without reasonable accommodations.

NOTE: All applicants are required to send a copy of their resume along with a cover letter to [email protected]

Rate of Pay: $102,670.40/Annually

Senior Executive Service EEO: Officials/Administrators FLSA: Exempt Updated 01/2026