Hearings Examiner - PFML - Multiple Vacancies Augusta , Maine , United States | Legal | Full-time Apply by: Nov. 11, 2024 Apply with Linkedin Apply Department of Labor - Paid Family and Medical LeaveJob Class Code:0053 Grade: 26 (Professional & Technical) Salary: $56,264 - $78,998 (Annually) Location: AugustaOpening Date: October 25, 2024Closing Date: November 11, 2024 The State of Maine is seeking four Hearing Examiners for the Maine Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) Program, created by the Maine Legislature in 2023. The Hearings Examiners will be key members of the team creating and overseeing one of the largest and most impactful new programs in the State with the objective of delivering a service Mainers can easily use in their time of need. The Hearing Examiners, under the direction of the Senior Hearings Examiner, will adjudicate appeals of decisions involving employer contributions, private plan substitutions, and benefit claims consistent with the requirements of the Maine Administrative Procedure Act. Additionally, the appeals unit may assist with the review and adjudication of employer private plan substitution exemptions. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, evaluating and analyzing documentation forming the basis for the decision and issues on appeal; administering the hearing; making procedural and evidentiary rulings; and preparing and issuing final decisions conforming to laws, rules, policy, and procedure. These positions have an option for partial telework Primary responsibilities include: + Determine the time, date, and place of hearing in order to conduct the hearing and render a decision in a timely manner. + Assess and evaluate all testimony and documents presented at the hearing in order to render a final decision on an issue or claim. + Explain the appellate hearing process, duties of the hearing examiner, purpose of the hearing, and rights of the parties in order to ensure all parties know their rights and are able to fully participate in the hearing. + Question parties testifying during the hearing in order to identify issues and clarify testimony. + Issue formal written decisions regarding issues on appeal which establishes facts, discusses and analyzes the evidence presented, and makes conclusions of law in order to advise all parties of the final decision. Skills or knowledge required: + Knowledge of applicable state/federal statutes, case law, and rules and regulations. + Knowledge of the Maine Administrative Procedure Act. + Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing with a variety of individuals sometimes under stressful circumstances. + Ability to conduct hearings in a fair and impartial manner. + Ability to prepare written decisions that are fair, balanced, and appropriately apply applicable laws, rules, and policies.l decision. Minimum qualifications: An eight (8) year combination of training, experience, and/or education providing a working knowledge of the adjudication process relating to hearings. Preference will be given to those applicants: Who hold degrees from American Bar Association accredited law schools. Contact information: Questions about this position should be directed to Judith Shaw, (207) 530-4670 atJudith.Shaw@maine.gov Application Instructions: Interested applicants need to apply online by selecting the "Apply for this opening" button along with uploading a cover letter, current resume, and copies of any transcripts or certifications you wish to have considered while evaluating your application. In order for us to properly determine if you meet the minimum qualifications for any posting, you must be sure your resume includes month and year for any experience listed along with the duties and responsibilities associated with each particular time period. Any experience that was not full-time employment should be identified as such. If you require a paper application, please download and print one here https://www.maine.gov/bhr/state-jobs/application-process or contact our office at 207-623-6700. Paper applications for this posting should be submitted along with cover letter and resume before the closing date to Security & Employment Service Center, 45 Commerce Drive, Augusta, ME 04330 or faxed to 207-287-2018. Be sure title of the job you are applying for is included. Applications cannot be accepted after the posting closing date. Benefits of working for the State of Maine: No matter where you work across Maine state government, you find employees who embody our state motto—"Dirigo" or "I lead"—as they provide essential services to Mainers every day. We believe in supporting our workforce's health and wellbeing with a valuable total compensation package, including: + Work-Life Fit – Rest is essential. Take time for yourself using 13 paid holidays, 12 days of sick leave, and 3+ weeks of vacation leave annually. Vacation leave accrual increases with years of service, and overtime-exempt employees receive personal leave. + Health Insurance Coverage – The State of Maine pays 85%-95%of employee-only premiums ($11,196.96 - $12,514.32 annual value), depending on salary. Use this chart to find thepremium costs for you and your family, including the percentage of dependent coverage paid by the State. + Dental Insurance – The State of Maine pays 100% of employee-only dental premiums ($387.92 annual value). + Retirement Plan– The State contributes the equivalent of 13.29% of the employee's pay towards the Maine Public Employees Retirement System (MainePERS) for MSEA, or 18.09% for Confidential employees. State employees are eligible for anextensive and highly competitive benefits package (https://www.maine.gov/bhr/state-jobs/compensation-benefits) , covering many aspects of wellness. Learn about additional wellness benefits for State employees from theOffice of Employee Health and Wellness (https://www.maine.gov/bhr/oeh/) . Note: Benefits may vary somewhat according to specific collective bargaining agreements and are prorated for anything less than full-time. There's a job and then there's purposeful, transformative work. Our aim is to create a workplace where you can learn, grow, and continuously refine your skills. Applicants demonstrate job requirements in differing ways, and we appreciate that many skills and backgrounds can make people successful in this role. As an Equal Opportunity employer, Maine State Government embraces a culture of respect and awareness. We are committed to creating a strong sense of belonging for all team members, and our process ensures an inclusive environment to applicants of all backgrounds including diverse race, color, sex, sexual orientation or gender identity, physical or mental disability, religion, age, ancestry, national origin, familial status or genetics. If you’re looking for a great next step, and want to feel good about what you do, we’d love to hear from you. Please note reasonable accommodations are provided to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. Thinking about applying? Research shows that people from historically excluded communities tend to apply to jobs only when they check every box in the posting. If you’re currently reading this and hesitating to apply for that reason, we encourage you to go for it! Let us know how your lived experience and passion set you apart.