The City of Decatur is hiring a Police Freedom of Information Act ( FOIA) Specialist to review, redact, and respond to records requests as part of the Police Department’s FOIA team. We’re seeking a detail-oriented professional with strong administrative and organizational skills. If you thrive in a fast-paced, high-responsibility environment and bring legal or law enforcement knowledge, we invite you to apply.

We support our employees with a strong package that includes:

• Competitive Benefits: 14.5 paid holidays (including 2 personal days), vacation and sick leave, health insurance, and an excellent pension plan.
• Relocation Assistance: Moving support available for qualified candidates.
• Dedicated Health Center: Free employee and dependent care services including checkups, labs, chronic condition management, and many prescriptions.
• Tuition Reimbursement: Support for continuing education and career development.

FOIA Request Processing

• Receive, evaluate, and process FOIA requests in compliance with Illinois law and department procedures
• Coordinate with requestors, Police Command Staff, and Legal Department to clarify, fulfill, or extend requests
• Apply appropriate FOIA exemptions in consultation with legal and command staff to protect restricted information

• Identify, review, and redact responsive records, including documents, audio, and video files
• Operate redaction and records management software to handle and protect sensitive data
• Maintain accuracy and legal compliance throughout the review, redaction, and release process

• Maintain organized digital records of FOIA requests, responses, and correspondence
• Draft and send professional communications, including responses, extension notices, and clarifications
• Prepare and distribute FOIA activity reports as needed for tracking and compliance

• Stay current with redaction tools, document systems, and FOIA-related technologies
• Support the Police Department’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and legal compliance

• Deliver timely, courteous service to the public and internal departments
• Clearly explain FOIA procedures and requirements to requestors and stakeholders

Education & Certifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; associate’s degree in office administration, legal studies, or a related field preferred
• FOIA Officer certification (required within six months of hire)
• Law Enforcement Agencies Data System (LEADS) certification preferred (must be obtained within one year if not already certified)

• Minimum of three years of administrative or clerical experience
• At least one year of experience handling FOIA requests or similar public records processing preferred
• Prior experience in a legal or law enforcement environment preferred

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and digital redaction tools
• Experience using document management or records software
• Ability to research and analyze paper, digital, audio, and video records

• Working knowledge of the Illinois Freedom of Information Act and applicable exemptions
• Ability to interpret and apply complex laws, policies, and procedures
• Familiarity with legal principles related to public records, confidentiality, and law enforcement operations

• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Clear and professional written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and manage sensitive information appropriately
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with diverse groups

• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and manage multiple deadlines
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment with frequent requests
• Sound judgment and the ability to apply exemptions accurately and consistently

• Successful completion of background check and fingerprinting; no felony convictions or gang/drug affiliations.

Residency Requirement
Employees must reside within 50 miles of Decatur's corporate limits within 12 months of appointment.

Why Decatur?
Located in the heart of Central Illinois, Decatur offers the perfect balance of professional opportunity and quality of life:

• Affordable, accessible living within easy reach to Chicago, St. Louis, and Indianapolis.
• Land of Lincoln: Explore Abe's legacy with visits to the nearby Lincoln Home National Historic Site, Lincoln’s Tomb, and the family’s first Illinois home.
• Shopping and Dining: Browse locally-owned boutiques and specialty shops and savor diverse delights at unique restaurants and quaint eateries.
• Entertainment Abounds: Enjoy concerts at the Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater, performing arts at Millikin University, and shows in the historic Lincoln Theatre downtown.
• Outdoor Recreation: Explore over 2,000 acres of parkland, enjoy Lake Decatur, or play a round of golf or disc golf
• Arts & Family Life: Enjoy murals, sculptures, and attractions like Splash Cove, the Children’s Museum, Scovill Zoo, and Overlook Adventure Park.