Washington State Office of Administrative Hearings

Administrative Law Judge 3 (Pro Tem)

Closes: Continuous - (Opened August 15, 2007)

Location: Statewide.

Salary: $29.67 - $38.93 per hour, salary effective September 1, 2007.

Agency Profile: The Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH) conducts fair and independent due process hearings and issues sound and timely decisions for a wide variety of state and local agencies. OAH’s mission is to hold fair and independent hearings for the public and for government agencies, and to issue sound and timely decisions. OAH strives to be the top central-panel agency in the United States.

OAH has offices in Everett, Olympia, Seattle, Spokane, Vancouver, and Yakima.

See the OAH website at www.oah.wa.gov.

Position Specifics: OAH is anticipating the immediate need for several ALJ Pro Tem positions statewide. Applications received from this recruitment will be used to fill positions as they occur statewide.

ALJ Pro Tems may conduct several types of hearings, including, but not limited to child support, public assistance, unemployment compensation, professional licensing, and other governmental benefit programs.

Principal Responsibilities: ALJs provide high quality and timely administrative hearings and decisions pursuant to RCW Chapter 34.05 and other applicable laws consistent with the requirements of due process, and provides courteous and fair treatment to all concerned. The ALJ works as a team in an OAH field office to support and carry out the agency mission, vision, values, and goals.

The ALJ is responsible for: (1) managing his/her own caseload including all prehearing, hearing, and post hearing matters; (2) making a clear and complete hearing record; and (3) issuing timely decisions. The ALJ must notify the supervising ALJ if unable to cover caseload or meet timelines.

Required Qualifications/Experience:

• A Juris Doctorate degree and a minimum of five years of legal experience.

• Active or Judicial member of the Washington State Bar Association or such a member of any state’s bar association.

• Demonstrated knowledge of administrative law and procedures.

• ALJs must have the ability to manage stressful situations and emotional parties. Hearings are often litigated very aggressively and emotionally and require an administrative law judge who can control and guide the process effectively.

Required Competencies:

The successful candidate will:

Conduct fair and impartial hearings for all parties as assigned.

Interact with the public, support staff and other ALJs with judicial demeanor at all times.

Assist other ALJs with workload as needed.

Analyze legal issues/problems and apply legal principles and precedents with a commitment to making an unbiased and legally correct decision.

Speak and write clearly and effectively.

Read exhibits, pleadings, and legal reference material.

Develop and maintain current knowledge of administrative rules and other substantive law for ALJs assigned caseloads.

Travel statewide as required.

Work as a team to support and carry out the agency mission, vision, values and goals.

Review case files in preparation for hearing.

Answer inquiries from parties, representatives and witnesses while avoiding improper ex parte contact.

Rule on prehearing motions, including subpoenas.

Be available and prepared to conduct hearings at the scheduled time. Be available to substitute for other ALJs as needed.

Maintain appropriate judicial decorum and judicial demeanor throughout each hearing and in all dealings with the public and co-workers. Respond appropriately to any disruption in the proceeding.

Explain succinctly the nature of the proceeding, the process to be used, and further appeal rights.

Swear in witnesses, take testimony, and rule on exhibits. Determine the relevancy of testimony as it is occurring, rule on admissibility of evidence, and deal with difficult persons who are upset or are having difficulty understanding the proceeding.

Determine the necessity for further testimony or exhibits.

Transport equipment and hearing record (including exhibits) to and from official station using appropriate means. Hearing record and equipment may weigh up to 40 pounds.

Issue written initial or final orders containing necessary findings of fact and conclusions of law and disposing of all issues.

Issue initial or final orders within required timelines.

Notify the supervising ALJ if unable to cover caseload or meet timelines.

To Apply: Submit a letter of interest, a resume, a completed Washington State employment application, and a list of three professional references, including their current addresses (and email addresses if known) and telephone numbers to:

The initial screening will be based solely on the information you submit.

The Office of Administrative Hearings is an equal opportunity employer. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, people with disabilities, people over 40 years of age, disabled veterans, and Vietnam Era veterans are encouraged to apply.

If you are an applicant with a disability and need assistance to pursue the application process, or need this announcement in an alternative format, please contact the ADA Coordinator, Office of Administrative Hearings, P.O. Box 42488, Olympia, WA 98504-2488, Telephone: (360) 664-8717. TTY users dial through Washington relay operator (1-800-833-6388).

posted 7/26/07

 INDUSTRIAL APPEALS JUDGE

All, hi!--  WALJA has been asked to announce that the Board of Industrial Insurance Appeals is currently recruiting for an Industrial Insurance Appeals Hearings Judge, and WALJA is pleased to do so.  Please open the attached link for more information.

http://www.biia.wa.gov/Industri al_Insurance_Appeals_Judge_3-1 .doc

posted 7/26/07

Manager of Adjudication

Non-Permanent Opportunity

Salary:                        $49,280 - $85,000 annually, depending on experience (WMS Band 2)

Location:                    King County TeleCenter - Seattle, Washington

Opening Date:           June 6, 2007

Closing Date:            June 12, 2007 (4:00 p.m.)

The King County TeleCenter currently has one (1) non-permanent opening for an Adjudication Manager. This non-permanent appointment is expected to last 3 to 6 months.

PRINCIPLE RESPONSIBILITIES:

The Adjudication Manager is responsible for the adjudication operations of the King County Unemployment Claims TeleCenter for the Employment Security Department. This position leads, plans, organizes, prioritizes, and monitors the activities of professional staff engaged in the adjudication of unemployment insurance (UI) and training benefits. This position supervises up to eight direct report supervisors and directs the activities of up to 65 staff. The Adjustment Manager also coaches, mentors, and coordinates staff members that are engaged in the resolution of unemployment insurance eligibility issues to assure that determinations are based upon relevant, fact-finding, and correct application of law, policies, and rules.  Unemployment benefits are issued within federal timelines standards.  The Unemployment Insurance Division meets all department and federal standards, so that the Employment Security Department meets and/or exceeds its performance goals in providing timely unemployment benefits and a fair and stable unemployment insurance system, which is a critical and integral part of the agency’s mission. 

The Adjudication Manager works with supervisors, peer managers, telecenter administrators, and senior leadership in the planning, design, and implementation of new statewide policy and procedures for a highly complex, technical program. The Adjudication Manager is a member of the leadership team of King County TeleCenter as well as TeleCenter Operations (Enterprise) and contributes to the development of strategic business and service delivery performance goals and budget. This position creates local strategies to ensure the achievement of unit goals and objectives. 

The Adjudication Manager responds to stakeholder concerns over application of law and policy and makes recommendations on human resource transactions.

The incumbent will also work as a liaison with the WorkSource Operations Division to resolve customer process and interface issues.  This position coordinates with community and technical colleges and community programs on Unemployment Insurance-related concerns.

This position reports directly to the King County TeleCenter Administrator.

Administrative Law Judge 3 (Nonpermanent)

Closes: Open until filled.

Location: Office of Administrative Hearings Headquarters, Olympia (near Red Lion Hotel)

Salary: Currently $4,643 – $5,944 monthly. The legislature has approved a salary increase. Effective July 1, 2007, this salary will increase by 7.5 %.

Agency Profile: The Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH) conducts fair and independent Adue process@ hearings and issues sound and timely decisions for a wide variety of state and local agencies. OAH’s mission is to hold fair and independent hearings for the public and for government agencies, and to issue sound and timely decisions. OAH strives to be the top central-panel agency in the United States.

See the OAH website at www.oah.wa.gov.

Position Specifics: OAH currently has an opening for an exempt nonpermanent Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). This position is projected to last one year. This position may conduct several types of hearings, including, but not limited to child support, public assistance, unemployment compensation, professional licensing, and other governmental benefit programs.

Principal Responsibilities: ALJs provide high quality and timely administrative hearings and decisions pursuant to RCW Chapter 34.05 and other applicable laws consistent with the requirements of due process, and provides courteous and fair treatment to all concerned. The ALJ works as a team in an OAH field office to support and carry out the agency mission, vision, values, and goals.

The ALJ is responsible for: (1) managing his/her own caseload including all prehearing, hearing, and post hearing matters; (2) making a clear and complete hearing record; and (3) issuing timely decisions. The ALJ must notify the supervising ALJ if unable to cover caseload or meet timelines.

Required Qualifications/Experience:

• A Juris Doctorate degree and a minimum of five years of legal experience.

• Active or Judicial member of the Washington State Bar Association or such a member of any state’s bar association.

• Demonstrated knowledge of administrative law and procedures.

• ALJs must have the ability to manage stressful situations and emotional parties. Hearings are often litigated very aggressively and emotionally and require an administrative law judge who can control and guide the process effectively.

Required Competencies:

The successful candidate will:

Conduct fair and impartial hearings for all parties as assigned.

Interact with the public, support staff and other ALJs with judicial demeanor at all times.

Assist other ALJs with workload as needed.

Analyze legal issues/problems and apply legal principles and precedents with a commitment to make an unbiased and legally correct decision.

Speak and write clearly and effectively.

Read exhibits, pleadings, and legal reference material.

Develop and maintain current knowledge of administrative rules and other substantive law for ALJs assigned caseloads.

Travel statewide as required.

Work as a team to support and carry out the agency mission, vision, values and goals.

Review case files in preparation for hearing.

Answer inquiries from parties, representatives and witnesses while avoiding improper ex parte contact.

Rule on prehearing motions, including subpoenas.

Be available and prepared to conduct hearings at the scheduled time. Be available to substitute for other ALJs as needed.

Maintain appropriate judicial decorum and judicial demeanor throughout each hearing and in all dealings with the public and co-workers. Respond appropriately to any disruption in the proceeding.

Explain succinctly the nature of the proceeding, the process to be used, and further appeal rights.

Swear in witnesses, take testimony, and rule on exhibits. Determine the relevancy of testimony as it is occurring, rule on admissibility of evidence, and deal with difficult persons who are upset or are having difficulty understanding the proceeding.

Determine the necessity for further testimony or exhibits.

Transport equipment and hearing record (including exhibits) to and from official station using appropriate means. Record and equipment may weigh up to 40 pounds.

Issue written initial or final orders containing necessary findings of fact and conclusions of law and disposing of all issues.

Issue initial or final orders within required timelines.

Notify the supervision ALJ if unable to cover caseload or meet timelines.

To Apply: Submit a letter of interest, a resume, a completed Washington state employment application, and a list of three professional references, including their current addresses (and email addresses if known) and telephone numbers to:

The initial screening will be based solely on the information you submit.

OAH is an equal opportunity employer and encourages all qualified applicants to apply. Applicants who need assistance or who need this announcement in an alternative format may call (360) 664-8717. For TTY, call 1-800-833-6388.

Job Announcement – Executive Director

Dispute Resolution Center of Kitsap County

 The Executive Director manages the operations, directs staff and volunteers, and implements Board policies of a non-profit corporation that provides conflict resolution services to residents of Kitsap County and surrounding areas. 

 The position is full-time with flexible hours.  Salary and benefits are negotiable.

 The position requires management, administrative, and mediation experience.  The incumbent will also be responsible for community outreach and the promotion of the Center’s dispute resolution services throughout the West Sound region.  Additionally, the incumbent will be responsible for managing the Center’s Mental Health Ombuds Program.

 Interested parties should send a letter of interest and a resume no later than March 27, 2007 to:  drc@kitsapdrc.org  or

Dispute Resolution Center of Kitsap County

9004 Washington Ave NW

Silverdale, WA 98383

 Please call (360) 698-0968 for further information.  The position description will be available by March 10, 2007, at www.kitsapdrc.org.

_____________________________________________________________________________

Nisqually Indian Tribe

Request for Qualifications

From Qualified Individuals

For Nisqually Tribe Hearings Officer

_____________________________________________________________________________

The Nisqually Indian Tribe is requesting proposals from qualified Consultants to perform Hearings Officer/Mediation services to hear and resolve employee grievances.  This position is intended to supplement the Tribe’s grievance process at the final step on an as-needed basis.  There are approximately 200 employees with fewer than ten grievances generated per year. 

General

The Hearings Officer will conduct Appeal Hearings for demotions, suspensions and dismissal for cause.  The Hearings Officer will conduct the hearings, and issue decisions in writing.

Qualifications

• Must  be an attorney licensed to practice in the State of Washington
• Thorough knowledge of personnel law and employment law sufficient to understand and interpret the Nisqually Tribe’s Personnel Policies and Manual. 
• Demonstrated ability to conduct hearings in person and issue final decisions that include findings of fact and conclusions.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with all parties.

Individuals who have questions on the above should contact Human Resources Director, Pam Peters at 360-459-9606.

_____________________________________________________________________________

On January 12, 2007, Judge Kenneth Kato announced his retirement, effective

February 1, 2007, from Washington’s Court of Appeals, Division III (District 1).

Governor Christine Gregoire is now seeking interested and qualified members of the

Washington State Bar Association to submit applications to fill the vacancy. The

Governor’s application for appointment consideration, the Uniform Judicial Evaluation

Application, which is accepted by several minority bar associations for evaluation

purposes, can be obtained from the Governor’s website as the URL indicated below or

by contacting the Governor’s Office at the below address. Please submit completed

applications and other materials to the attention of:

Richard E. Mitchell, General Counsel

Office of the Governor

Legislative Building

P.O. Box 40002

Olympia, WA 98504

http://www.governor.wa.gov/judicial/default.asp

Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit their completed applications as

soon as possible.

To be considered for the Division III, District 1, vacancy, applicants must be a

resident of one of the following counties: Ferry, Lincoln, Pend Oreille, Okanogan,

Spokane, or Stevens.

Applications may also be submitted to the WSBA . Interested individuals will be interviewed by the Bar’s Judicial Recommendation Committee (JRC), and the JRC's recommendations will be reviewed by the WSBA Board of Governors and referred to Governor Gregoire for consideration.

Applications must be received at the WSBA office by 5 pm on Tuesday, February 28. To obtain an application, click here or contact the WSBA at 206-727-8212 or 800-945-9722, ext. 8212, or barleaders@wsba.org. Specify whether you need the application for a judge or an attorney.

Pro Tem ALJs (WA): The Washington State Office of Administrative Hearings' Olympia Office is recruiting for ALJs Pro Tem.  Contact Lead ALJ Brian Watkins (360.753.3566) for more information.