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Program Officer, Juvenile Justice
Job Type Full-time
Date Posted Tuesday, 20 July 2010
Location Chicago
Company Information John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation

, IL
Website: http://macfound.org
Job Description GENERAL SUMMARY: The successful candidate will be responsible for managing grantmaking activities with a focus on juvenile justice and related policies and practices. The Program Officer will participate in the design and implementation of grantmaking strategies; identify prospective grant recipients; review and evaluate proposals; prepare grant descriptions for administrative and board consideration; maintain relationships with individuals and organizations relevant to the fields of interest; monitor the performance of grantees and the implementation of grant strategies; organize meetings with prospective grantees, grantees and program advisors; represent the Foundation at program-related meetings and conferences; and participate in planning future program strategies. The program officer will build, maintain, and strengthen relationships with state and local leaders involved in Models for Change, and coordinate and provide oversight of national grantees that serve as a resource network for all the states and participate in other national juvenile justice policy and system reform efforts. Experience in strategic communications and project management is essential; familiarity with juvenile justice systems and change improvement is highly desired. Regular travel is required. ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES: 1. Evaluate letters of inquiry and grant proposals. 2. Conduct background research and prepare grant recommendations for funding. 3. Prepare turndown letters for unsuccessful requests. Write extensively for internal purposes and prepare drafts of speeches and opinion pieces. 4. Implement and adapt current long-term grantmaking strategies. 5. Apply proven expertise in program area and demonstrated experience in grantmaking or related activities. 6. Meet with prospective grantees and others in the relevant field(s). 7. Conduct research projects as assigned, and/or monitor research-oriented grants. 8. Manage a caseload of active grants, and prepare information and reports as needed. 9. Maintain accurate records and monitor the performance of grants. 10. Keep abreast of current events and issues in field of expertise. 11. Build and sustain relationships with key actors in the field. OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES: 1. Maintain contact with grant recipients and other professionals in the area. 2. Assist in design and implementation of new initiatives. 3. May perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

The ideal applicant will have at least five years experience working in juvenile justice policy or related public policy areas (e.g. children and family services, public administration). Advanced graduate training is required. Candidates must have deep knowledge and appreciation of the substance and dynamics of public policy relevant to juvenile justice reform, including other child and family serving institutions and systems. The ability to make effective connections among state and local officials, the courts, and practitioners is essential. Practical “on the ground” experience with public systems is highly desirable; experience as a policy professional is beneficial. Other qualifications include strong interpersonal skills and proven ability to function as part of a team and excellent oral and written communications, including the ability to write for publication, and make speeches and other public presentations. Candidates must be well-organized and efficient at managing multiple tasks, self-confidant, diplomatic and collegial, and have high professional standards and good judgment.
How to Apply To apply for the Program Officer position, candidates should visit www.macfound.org and click on “Employment”. (Electronic submissions are preferred.) No Phone Inquiries.


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