Administrative Law Judge

the South Dakota State Government • Statewide, SD

4d • Onsite

About The Position

The Department of Social Services (DSS), Division of Legal Services, is seeking an attorney to conduct administrative hearings for programs throughout the department, draft administrative rules governing those programs, and assist the department during legislative session as part of its Legislative Task Force. DSS attorneys work across legal areas including child protection, foster care and adoption; Medicaid and behavioral health; food and nutrition support; income and work programs; child support; and professional licensing.

This is a full-time position with the State of South Dakota. The position is exempt from the Civil Service Act. Applicants must apply online; emailed resumes or other submissions will not be accepted. A resume must be attached to the application. The state does not sponsor work visas. New hires must verify identity and U.S. work eligibility and complete Form I-9; the state uses E-Verify.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor from an ABA-accredited law school.
• Admission to the South Dakota Bar, or eligibility for admission and ability to obtain admission within six months of the start date.
• Strong legal research, writing, and analytical skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Display high standards of ethical conduct.
• Communicate effectively and efficiently.
• Understand litigation practice and strategies.
• Exercise sound judgment in decision-making and take prompt, decisive action.
• Analyze information, issues, situations, practices, and precedents to arrive at a logical interpretation.
• Work independently while accepting guidance and soliciting input.
• Actively seek, collect, and evaluate information to learn more about issues or events.
• Plan and organize work activities, adjust to multiple demands, and prioritize tasks to complete assignments and meet schedules and deadlines.
• Attach a resume and apply online; emailed resumes or submissions will not be accepted.
• Verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete Form I-9 upon hire.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in administrative law, regulatory matters, or litigation.

Responsibilities

• Conduct administrative appeal hearings for programs across the Department of Social Services.
• Rule on the admissibility of evidence, ensure a complete and accurate record, and provide a fair hearing process.
• Research, analyze, and interpret questions of law presented at hearings.
• Ensure hearing notices and other hearing documents are properly drafted.
• Prepare and issue high-quality hearing decisions in a timely manner.
• Collaborate with internal divisions to draft administrative rules governing department programs.
• Oversee the administrative rules promulgation process.
• Collaborate with the department's Legislative Task Force during legislative session.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Health insurance options, including a $0-premium employee health insurance option.
• Dental insurance.
• Vision insurance.
• Life insurance options.
• Participation in the SDRS Retirement System, including Class A retirement, and supplemental retirement plans.
• Generous vacation and sick leave accrual and leave policies.
• Eleven paid holidays.
• A supportive work environment that values work-life balance.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree