Hiring Notice: Director of Infrastructure & Community Engagement

The 40th Ward is currently hiring for a Director of Infrastructure & Community Engagement. Applications must be submitted by December 15th, 2021.

Description: The Director of Infrastructure & Community Engagement is responsible for responding to a wide range of resident inquiries related to quality of life issues, city services, and government and community resources, and they serve as a proactive advocate for 40th Ward residents. The Director manages the Neighbor Network volunteer program, including the Precinct Partner team, and they oversee the 40th Ward’s community zoning process.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

• Report directly to the chief of staff and supervise managers, volunteers and interns as applicable.
• Serve as lead for ward infrastructure and construction projects, and zoning matters, liaising with City departments such as Transportation, Water Management, Planning and Development, and Business Affairs and Consumer Protection. Respond to verbal and written correspondence and update neighbors as needed.
• Maintain office database to track constituent inquiries, service requests, and progress reports.
• Work with 40th Ward team to address and resolve incoming phone, email, and walk-in constituent service requests. 
• Manage the Neighbor Network Volunteer Program, with specific attention to volunteer recruitment, communication, and retention.
• Plan and execute Precinct Partner volunteer campaign. Identify volunteers, hold training sessions and canvassing events in the evenings and/or weekends.
• Oversee the community-driven zoning processes; host evening zoning meetings and track neighbor feedback.
• Attend block parties, hold constituent clinics, help staff special events (approximately one weekend day per month).
• Represent 40th Ward office at community meetings. Give presentations and record meeting minutes as needed.
• Perform 40th Ward surveys, or spending time “in the field” to assess reported issues and to monitor current projects and conditions.
• Participate in projects such as event set up, requiring the ability to lift items weighing 20 lbs.
• Perform other duties as assigned. 

Minimum Qualifications: 

• Resident of Chicago, IL
• Resourceful, responsive, and service-minded with exceptional customer service skills. Willing to go the extra mile, seek creative solutions, and follow up whenever necessary.
• Strong time management and organizational skills, including digital record management.
• Commitment to transparency, accountability, and co-governing with residents and diverse stakeholders.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills. Must be comfortable with public speaking. NOTE: This position requires applicants to complete a skills assessment/writing exercise as part of the interview process
• Temperament & compassion to engage with people in a tactful, pleasant, and professional manner.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with an ability to exercise independent judgment.
• Ability to work some evenings and weekends and maintain a flexible schedule for community events.

Other Knowledge, Skills, and Attributes:

• Experience in using NGP/VAN or running canvassing programs is preferred but not required.
• Experience in using AirTable and/or Salesforce is preferred but not required.
• Knowledge of the 40th Ward is preferred but not required.

Compensation: 

• Full-time, salaried position with City of Chicago benefits, including paid vacation and sick time. 
• Salary range is $50,000 – $60,000 depending on experience. 
• A typical work week is approximately 40 hours per week.

To apply, please send your resume and cover letter to info@40thward.org. The email subject line should be your first and last name, and “Infrastructure Director” Applications will be accepted and reviewed through December 15, 2021.

The office of Alderman Andre Vasquez is an equal opportunity employer that values diverse experiences and perspectives. Candidates must meet all requirements for employment by the City of Chicago.