Job Details

Overview

Position: Chief of Staff to the Chief Public Defender for Harris County. The Chief of Staff serves as a strategic advisor and principal aide, manages high-level external relationships, provides executive support, and oversees the office's external engagement strategy. The Chief of Staff ensures the Chief Public Defender is fully informed, prepared, and supported in advancing the office's mission of providing high-quality, client-centered representation.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Serve as a trusted advisor to the Chief Public Defender on policy, operations, and stakeholder engagement.
• Prepare thorough briefings, talking points, reports, and other materials to support meetings, presentations, and public appearances.
• Build and maintain productive relationships with elected officials, judicial officers, community organizations, advocacy groups, and other external partners.
• Represent the Chief Public Defender at meetings, events, and public forums when appropriate.
• Develop and execute an external engagement strategy that aligns with the office's mission, values, and policy priorities.
• Coordinate priorities, schedules, and special projects on behalf of the Chief Public Defender.

Requirements

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university.
• Five (5)+ years of experience in public administration, policy, or legal settings.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including experience preparing executive briefings and public remarks.

Preferences

• Master's degree in Public Administration or Juris Doctor preferred.
• Five (5)+ years of experience in public administration, policy, or legal settings, preferably involving government or community relations.

General Information

• Position Type and Typical Hours of Work: Regular Full-time
• Monday - Friday | 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Salary: Depends on Qualifications. Based on 26 Pay Periods. Plus, benefits.

Employment may be contingent on passing a drug screen and meeting other standards.

Due to a high volume of applications, positions may close prior to the advertised closing date or at the discretion of the Hiring Department.

Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

If you need special services or accommodations, please call (713) ###-#### or email ...@bmd.hctx.net.

This position is subject to a criminal history check. Only relevant convictions will be considered and, even when considered, may not automatically disqualify the candidate.