Hearings Officer (Multiple Locations)

Job ID: Hearing Officer I (Appeals Department). Texas residents only or those willing to relocate to Texas. Not considering applicants who require employment-visa sponsorship.

About the role

The Appeals Department holds hearings for first-level appeals—from an original determination—in disputed claims for unemployment insurance benefits. The Texas Unemployment Compensation Act governs these hearings. Upon request, the department may also conduct other special hearings. All hearings are mandated by state law and must be conducted in a fair and impartial manner.

Work can be performed from any of the following Texas Workforce Commission field offices:

• 3120 Eddy Street, Amarillo, TX
• 1125 S. Buckner Blvd, Dallas, TX
• 300 E. Main Street, El Paso, TX
• 301 W. 13th Street, Fort Worth, TX
• 13625 Beechnut Street, Houston, TX
• 1301 Broadway Street, Lubbock, TX
• 115 E. Travis Street, San Antonio, TX

Qualifying candidates must have a secure, dedicated workspace with internet service and the ability to maintain a reliable, consistent work schedule while being available via Microsoft Teams during regular business hours.

Responsibilities

• Conduct formal telephone hearings on appeals involving claims for unemployment insurance in accordance with federal and Texas law and procedure.
• Develop a working knowledge of the laws, regulations, policies, and precedent decisions to prepare for appeal hearings.
• Confer with agency personnel to obtain additional information bearing on appeals and to clarify future implications of decisions.
• Question witnesses and rule on exceptions, motions, and admissibility of evidence.
• Adjudicate benefit eligibility issues raised in appeals filed by claimants or employers.
• Render decisions affirming, modifying, or reversing previous rulings based on testimony, claims records, applicable provisions of laws, and established precedents.
• Perform related duties as needed.

Requirements

• Graduation from an accredited law school approved by the American Bar Association.
• Experience as a licensed attorney in any US court or recent law school graduate.
• Experience holding unemployment insurance appeal hearings (preferred).
• Proficiency in operating computers and office software.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to handle multiple priorities while meeting strict deadlines.
• Must be available via Microsoft Teams during regular business hours.

Benefits

• Medical insurance.
• Sick leave and vacation leave.
• State of Texas retirement benefit, including a 401K savings plan.
• Additional benefits for active employees: ERS Texas Health Benefits.

Pay

$5,650.00–$5,989.00 per month.