Hearing officer

Position Number: 22110418 County: Pulaski Posting End Date: November 12, 2026

The Department of Human Services is a place for people passionate about serving others and changing lives for the better. We care for Arkansans of all ages and ensure places like child care centers and nursing homes are safe. We are the safety net for the most vulnerable Arkansans. Whether you answer the phones, take applications, protect children, or help care for residents or patients at one of our facilities, you make a difference by working at DHS. Plus, working for the State has great perks, including a pension, maternity leave, paid state holidays, and much more. At DHS, we take care of our employees so you can help care for others.

Position Information

Job Series: Legal Support – Independent Classification: Hearing Officer Class Code: ILS02I Pay Grade: SGS06 Salary Range: $52,137 - $77,163

Job Summary

The Hearing Officer is an entry-level position within the regulatory process, responsible for conducting formal hearings related to agency rulemaking, compliance violations, or other matters that require legal or administrative adjudication. This position involves interpreting relevant laws, regulations, and policies to render fair and impartial decisions based on the evidence presented. The Hearing Officer also ensures that hearings comply with established procedures and that all parties are provided an opportunity to be heard in accordance with legal and procedural requirements.

Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct formal hearings and proceedings involving issues of regulatory compliance, rule interpretation, and other matters requiring legal adjudication.
• Review evidence, testimony, and legal arguments presented by parties involved in hearings.
• Ensure hearings are conducted in accordance with applicable laws, regulations, and agency rules.
• Issue written decisions or recommendations based on evidence and legal standards.
• Maintain accurate and comprehensive records of hearings, including transcripts, exhibits, and rulings.
• Provide guidance to parties on hearing procedures and address any procedural questions or concerns.
• Analyze relevant laws, regulations, and legal precedents to determine their application in specific cases.
• Prepare written reports, findings of fact, and conclusions of law based on the hearings and evidence presented.
• Collaborate with legal teams to ensure compliance with due process and fairness in all hearings.

Knowledge and Skills

• Knowledge of administrative law, hearing procedures, and regulatory compliance in a state government setting.
• Ability to interpret complex regulations, statutes, and legal precedents.
• Strong oral and written communication skills, with the ability to present findings clearly and effectively.
• Detail-oriented, with a focus on accuracy in reviewing evidence and documenting hearing processes.
• Strong critical thinking and decision-making skills to evaluate cases impartially and render appropriate judgments.
• Understanding of Arkansas state government regulations and the role of administrative law in state governance.
• Ability to manage and facilitate hearings efficiently, ensuring fairness and transparency throughout the process.
• Familiarity with the Arkansas administrative law process and relevant state regulations.
• Strong writing and communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to summarize and analyze legal information.
• Ability to handle complex legal matters with professionalism and impartiality.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in law, political science, public administration, or a related field preferred. A minimum of 1-2 years of professional experience in legal research, compliance, or administrative adjudication.

Licensure/Certifications

N/A

OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.

The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.