Administrative Law Judge

Location: Statewide (in-person at a DLR office, remote, or hybrid options considered; within the state of South Dakota)

Salary: $90,000 - $105,000/annually, depending on qualifications

Closing Date: 09/01/2026

About the role

The Administrative Law Judge position serves as an administrative hearing officer in administrative hearings on contested reemployment assistance benefits and tax matters. The position may, on occasion, be asked to handle hearings for other types of contested case matters.

Responsibilities

• Respectfully and effectively handle administrative appeal hearings, including ruling on the admissibility of evidence, ensuring a complete and accurate record, and providing for a fair hearing process;
• Research, analyze, and interpret questions of law presented in the hearing;
• Ensure notices of hearing and other hearing documents are properly drafted;
• Prepare and issue high-quality hearing decisions in a timely manner; and
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor from an ABA-accredited law school;
• Admission to the South Dakota Bar, or eligibility for admission;
• Current admission to practice with the State Bar of South Dakota or current admission in another jurisdiction with the ability to obtain admission within six months of start date;
• Strong legal research, writing, and analytical skills;
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities;
• Significant experience (5+ years) in administrative law, regulatory matters, or litigation preferred.

Skills

• Knowledge of statutes applicable to administrative hearings, procedures, and due process;
• Knowledge of rules of evidence and procedure;
• Ability to prepare and analyze legal documents and writing;
• Ability to make sound judgments;
• Ability to communicate and interact clearly and fairly with other staff and third parties;
• Ability to identify and apply legal principles;
• Knowledge of state and federal labor law, including unemployment insurance;
• Ability to express oneself clearly and concisely, orally and in writing.

Benefits

• Health, dental, vision, and life insurance options (including a $0 premium employee health insurance option);
• Participation in the SDRS Retirement System and supplemental retirement plans;
• Generous leave policies and eleven paid holidays;
• Class A retirement under SDRS;
• A supportive work environment that values work-life balance; and
• Opportunities for professional growth and development.