[2] Riley is an urban planner and statistician by profession, having published and conducted research in the fields of education, economic analysis, cancer clinical trials and health planning.

Previous or current professional, elected and civic positions include: Adjunct Professor, Business and Public Administration, Governors State University (1997–2011); Trustee, Village of Olympia Fields (1994–2005); Trustee, Rich Township (2005); member, American Institute of Certified Planners; American Planning Association; member, UIC College of Urban Planning and Public Administration Alumni Board; American Statistical Association, Executive Board, Calumet Council, Boy Scouts of America; and the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra Board.

He served in the United States Army in active and reserve roles in the branches of Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs (1972–78).

Riley held the position of Assistant Majority Leader in the Illinois House of Representatives for two terms during his twelve-year tenure.

He is also a member of the bipartisan, bicameral Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability (COGFA), which "is mandated to report to the General Assembly on economic trends in relation to long-range planning and budgeting; and to study and make such recommendations as it deems appropriate on local and regional economic and fiscal policies and on federal fiscal policy as it may affect Illinois".