Fair Hearings & Appeals Officer (EXEMPT)

Job Description

Under the general supervision of the Legal Counsel or designee, this position presides over fair
administrative disqualification hearings for applicant/client appeals on actions taken by HHS
agencies and their contractors. Requires interpretation and application of a diverse array of state
and federal laws and regulations concerning over 60 programs. Ensures due process; admits and
weighs evidence; makes findings of fact and conclusions of law; analyzes complex issues,
including burdens and standards of proof; applies fact and evidence to program policies, state and
federal regulations; and writes clear and accurate legal decisions expeditiously and impartially.

This position requires a confidential relationship to a policymaker.Exercises the inherent authority of an administrative law judge.

Manages pre-hearing proceedings and conduct impartial hearings.

Schedules hearings, counsel parties, and administer oaths.

Conducts fair and impartial administrative hearings to gather information and evidence.

Questions witnesses and rules on exceptions, motions, and admissibility of evidence.

Analyzes evidence and applies relevant laws, regulations, policies, and precedent decisions.

Prepares and renders written decisions supported by substantial evidence.

Establishes and maintain accurate case records.

Assists in preparation of annual budget items related to Hearings and Appeals.

Prepares statistical, monthly, and annual reports.

Participates in training, workshops, and peer review to further enhance legal expertise and
procedural competency.

Performs other related duties as required.Bachelor’s degree in paralegal studies, social sciences, or a related field from an accredited college
or university supplemented by at least three (3) years of experience as a hearing officer, mediator,
or arbitrator conducting administrative hearings, including at least one (1) year of supervisory
experience.FACTOR 1- KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED BY THE POSITION
Knowledge of agency programs, operating procedures, and regulatory frameworks governing
administrative hearings at both federal and territorial levels.
Knowledge of the administrative hearing processes.
Skill in policy research and analysis to interpret laws, precedents, and regulations.
Skill in planning to organize and prioritize caseloads and decision-making to deliver impartial
outcomes.
Skill in operating computer systems, applications, and databases.
Ability to apply best practices in managing hearing logistics, documentation, and procedural
compliance.
Ability to interpret laws and exercise legal authority in rendering decisions accurately.
Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
Ability to analyze information critically and exercise objective judgment.
Ability to manage caseloads independently to meet deadlines.
Ability to exercise discretion and maintain confidentiality when handling sensitive case
information and personal data throughout the hearing process.
Ability to interpret legal regulations, and write clear, concise decisions.
Ability to engage in ongoing professional education and development, staying current with
changes in law, administrative procedures, and best practices in adjudication.

FACTOR 2- SUPERVISORY CONTROLS
Work is supervised by the Legal Counsel. Assignments are carried out independently with
considerable discretion in the application of policies and legal principles. Work is reviewed
periodically for soundness of decisions, legal accuracy, and adherence to procedural requirements.

FACTOR 3- GUIDELINES
Guidelines include federal and territorial laws, regulations, and established policies, along with
administrative procedures and precedent rulings. Judgment is exercised in interpreting and
adapting guidelines to the specific circumstances of each case. Complex or ambiguous situations
may require the development of new approaches consistent with existing legal standards.

FACTOR 4- COMPLEXITY
Work is complex due to the variety of programs, the diversity of legal issues presented, and the
need to evaluate conflicting evidence and testimony. Cases often involve applying nuanced
interpretations of the law, assessing credibility, and producing decisions that have legal and
programmatic implications.

FACTOR 5- SCOPE AND EFFECT
The purpose of the work is to provide due process and ensure fair and legally sound outcomes in
client appeals. The decisions rendered directly affect the rights of individuals and the integrity of
the Department's administrative procedures.

FACTOR 6- PERSONAL CONTACTS
Contacts are program staff, appellants, attorneys, agency representatives, and occasionally the
general public. These contacts may occur in person, in hearings, or through written and electronic
correspondence.

FACTOR 7- PURPOSE OF CONTACTS
Contacts are made to gather information, clarify case facts, explain hearing procedures, and
communicate decisions. The purpose is to ensure transparency, legal sufficiency, and the
opportunity for fair resolution in each case.

FACTOR 8- PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Work is primarily sedentary but may require light physical effort such as walking, standing,
bending, or carrying files. Travel to off-site hearings may be occasionally necessary.

FACTOR 9- WORK ENVIRONMENT
Work is performed in an office setting or hearing room setting with minimal exposure to risk.
Some travel to agency offices or hearing sites may be required. Normal safety precautions are
observed.