HEARING OFFICER II FAMLI

Introduction Maryland’s Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FAMLI) program makes sure all workers in Maryland have paid time off for medical and family reasons. FAMLI is a social insurance system covering 2.6 million workers and 180,000 employers, delivered as a digitally native, public-facing service. We’re in the early stages of building something as big and as far-reaching as unemployment insurance or a new health department. We know that delivering services primarily through a website, over the Internet, is a new way of doing business in government. The Appeals Unit is responsible for providing a fair and impartial process for reviewing determinations made by the FAMLI Division. Our Hearing Officers conduct hearings, review evidence, and issue legally sound decisions while safeguarding due process. The Appeals Unit is committed to delivering timely, accessible, and high-quality service to workers, employers, and the public while upholding the integrity of the FAMLI program. Hearing Officers conduct administrative hearings and issue written decisions. They are responsible for managing hearings efficiently, developing a complete and accurate record, and applying the law in an impartial manner. Hearing Officers contribute to the overall quality and consistency of Appeals decisions and support the unit’s commitment to integrity, efficiency, and fairness. This is a Remote position. GRADE STD0021 LOCATION OF POSITION 100 S. Charles Street Baltimore, Maryland 21201 Main Purpose of Job A Hearing Officer II is a full performance level position of the Appeals Unit within the Division of Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FAMLI) at the Maryland Department of Labor. A Hearing Officer II ensures accurate and timely processing of appeals by reviewing appeals intakes, case materials, and evidence, conducting administrative hearings and pre‑hearing conferences when necessary. Hearing Officers also communicate and coordinate with parties and participants in appeals hearings, and write and issue appeals decisions in accordance with the law. POSITION DUTIES 75% - Administrative Hearings and Decision Writing Conducts impartial administrative hearings related to the eligibility, benefits, and contribution liability under the FAMLI program. Reviews all pertinent facts surrounding the hearing. Reviews case materials, relevant statutes, and evidence prior to the hearing. Follows prescribed legal procedures and ensures that due process is maintained throughout hearings. Evaluates testimony and applies statutes, case law, and program regulations accurately. Prepares timely, legally sound, and clearly written proposed decisions. Collaborates effectively with Clerks, administrators, and other team members in the Hearings Unit. Ensures confidentiality and proper handling of sensitive information. Remains adaptable to new technologies and new processes as they are introduced. Assists with appeals pre‑review and intake to resolve and dispense of cases when possible. Performs research in preparation for the administrative hearings. Issues pre‑hearing orders, subpoenas, administers oaths, examines witnesses and receives documentary evidence. Instructs the parties of their rights. Conducts pre‑hearing conferences to limit issues, combine parties and representation, accept stipulations, determine order of presentation and to address other aspects of the hearing. 20% - Maintain Knowledge of Rules and Procedures Stays up‑to‑date on changes in administrative law, as well as FAMLI policies, procedures and regulations. Participates in regular team trainings. 5% - Other Compiles data and produces reports as directed. Performs other duties as required.