Open until position is filled.

TRS provides retirement benefits for teachers who are employed by all Illinois public common and charter school districts located outside the city of Chicago. The Illinois Pension Code contains the laws relating to our creation, benefits, and administration.

Position Overview:

Under the direction of the Executive Director, the General Counsel provides a wide range of legal advice to the Executive Director, Board of Trustees and to senior leadership regarding litigation, legislation, contract drafting, negotiation and interpretation, benefit administration, and qualified plan compliance. The incumbent will draft legal opinions and administrative decisions, represent the System in administrative hearings, review and draft proposed statutes and administrative rules and perform research in support of TRS operations. The General Counsel will develop and maintain effective professional and public contacts as well as satisfactory working relationships with staff members. Requires the ability to travel as needed.

Key Responsibilities

• Serves as legal advisor for the Executive Director, offering advice and consultation which may affect the policy, decisions, and actions of TRS.
• Implements, maintains, and protects the interests of TRS within the scope established by the Executive Director and Board of Trustees. 
• Plans and directs extensive and complex research on administrative, legal, and legislative issues affecting the operations of TRS; makes recommendations and presents written reports as needed.
• Confers with staff members, attorneys, and qualified experts, and advises on issues of eligibility, benefits, statutory interpretations, tax issues and compliance.
• Represents TRS in administrative hearings.
• Maintains an awareness of programs and activities of state and federal agencies that have a connection with or a potential impact on the TRS.
• Builds and maintains effective relationships with legislative personnel and stakeholders to protect member interests and benefits.
• Leads, manages, coaches, and evaluates performance of the legal staff.
• Manages the Legal Department’s budget and expenses.
• Performs other duties as required or assigned. Requires the ability to travel as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

• Graduate of an accredited law school and holds a valid license to practice law in the State of Illinois.
• A minimum of eight years of work experience related to the purpose of the position which should include four years of progressive responsibility in supervisory experience.