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Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) in California is seeking an Administrative Law Judge to preside over quasi-judicial hearings and ensure fair, thorough consideration of complex cases. The role includes assisting junior judges and helping develop office policies and procedures.
The position emphasizes impartiality, rigorous legal analysis, and clear written decisions, with opportunities to contribute to state health care policy and the integrity of California’s administrative processes.
The Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) is the backbone of California’s health care safety net. Our success is made possible by the hard work of more than 4,800 DHCS team members and through collaboration with the federal government and other state agencies, counties, and partners for the care of low-income families, children, pregnant women, older adults, and persons with disabilities. This is an exciting opportunity to join our diverse team in the following role.
The role of the Administrative Law Judge is to preside over quasi-judicial hearings on difficult, complex, and sensitive matters as provided under the Administrative Procedure Act and other state and federal statutes; confer with and assist less experienced Administrative Law Judges with challenging cases and provide guidance; and assist with the development and implementation of new office policies and procedures and the improvement of existing policies and procedures.
Have questions and/or need assistance? Contact recruit@dhcs.ca.gov, we are here to help walk you through the state hiring process!
This position is subject to the Department's Conflict of Interest Code and filing a Statement of Economic Interests (Form 700) when assuming office, annually while in office, and upon leaving office.
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement.
Additionally, as a team member of the State of California, you may be eligible for many benefits, such as:
Full benefits information can be found on CalHR's California State Civil Service Employee Benefits Summary
DHCS 2023-2027 Strategic Plan provides more information about our commitment to serving Californians and organizational excellence.
We need your help! Please let us know how you heard about our position by taking this brief optional survey: SurveyMonkey link. This survey is not required to be considered for this position.
You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.
In addition to evaluating each candidate's relative ability, as demonstrated by quality and breadth of experience, the following factors will provide the basis for competitively evaluating each candidate:
The skill to understand the testimony of expert witnesses in complex matters; identify and analyze relevant facts and complex legal issues; determine the relevance of evidence presented at the hearing; preside over and maintain control of proceedings; recognize and protect the confidentiality of oral and written information; determine the appropriate credibility and weight given to testimony offered; prioritize one's workload with varying degrees of importance, taking into consideration statutory timelines; and draft logical, well-written decisions. The ability to act without supervision or assistance in conducting hearings, ruling on issues presented, and preparing written decisions; maintain a fair and impartial attitude, without bias or prejudice, in all matters; analyze, evaluate, and apply legal principles and evidentiary rules to the facts of a case; communicate effectively in writing with a high level of attention to detail; complete assignments efficiently and on time; accurately summarize evidence; conduct relevant legal research; communicate effectively orally; work well under pressure and in stressful situations; establish cooperative and positive relationships in the workplace; set a positive example and be flexible in response to change. The knowledge of the California Administrative Procedure Act and other principles related to administrative litigation.