UC Administrative Hearing Officer (20037581)

State of Ohio • Columbus, OH

1d • Remote

About The Position

The Unemployment Compensation Administrative Hearing Officer conducts administrative law hearings on appeals of lower-authority unemployment insurance decisions. The officer determines why an individual separated from employment and whether the individual is entitled to benefits, while ensuring parties understand hearing procedures and their rights. The role is remote and headquartered at Rhodes State Office Tower in Columbus, Ohio, with occasional travel for training and required program meetings. Standard workdays are Monday through Friday, with hours between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.; evening work may be required.

The Commission is an independent agency that conducts de novo hearings on unemployment insurance matters appealed by claimants and employers. Following review of the facts, it may affirm, reverse, remand, or modify the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services’ decisions. The Commission aims to deliver fair, timely, consistent, and efficient hearings while preserving the dignity and respect of those it serves.

The selected candidate begins at Pay Grade 34, Step 1, at $38.01 per hour, with an opportunity for an increase after one year of satisfactory performance and yearly raises thereafter under the Ohio Revised Code or OCSEA Collective Bargaining Agreement. The final candidate must undergo a criminal background check and other investigative reviews.

Requirements

• Admission to the Ohio Bar pursuant to Ohio Revised Code Section 4705.01.
• Six months of experience as a licensed attorney.
• Valid driver's license.
• Applicants must clearly indicate how they meet the minimum qualifications in their application and supplemental question responses.

Responsibilities

• Conduct administrative law hearings to determine the reason for an individual's separation from employment and whether the individual is entitled to unemployment benefits.
• Explain hearing procedures and advise parties of their rights.
• Administer oaths and oversee testimony, including selecting and questioning witnesses, overseeing direct testimony and cross-examination, and assisting with cross-examination when appropriate.
• Secure stipulations, answer questions, and interpret policies and procedures.
• Rule on motions and objections and determine the admissibility of evidence.
• Conduct legal research and prepare for hearings by reviewing the Director's files and additional documents and exhibits.
• Ensure that parties and issues are correctly identified and notified.
• Confer with parties about scheduling and continuances.
• Authorize the issuance of subpoenas.
• Write decisions by reviewing evidence, researching legal issues, and typing or dictating decisions.

Benefits

• Medical coverage.
• Dental, vision, and basic life insurance premiums provided at no cost after the eligibility period.
• Paid vacation, personal and sick leave, and 11 paid holidays per year.
• Childbirth, adoption, and foster care leave.
• Education and development opportunities, including employee development funds and Public Service Loan Forgiveness.
• Public retirement systems, including OPERS, STRS, SERS, and HPRS, and optional deferred compensation.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed