Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC) is seeking a Hearings Officer in the Office of the General Counsel!

AGENCY MISSION:

The Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC) is charged with creating more homes in Massachusetts and lowering housing costs for residents.

Formerly known as the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD), EOHLC works with municipalities, local housing authorities, non-profit organizations, and development partners to provide affordable housing options, financial assistance, and other support to Massachusetts communities.

OVERVIEW OF ROLE:

The Review Examiner conducts hearings, as required by law, on appeals of claims for agency services related to the Emergency Assistance Homeless program brought to the Division of Hearings by persons aggrieved by the decisions of officials of this agency; renders and submits decisions thereon to the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities; and performs related work as required.

This position reports to the Deputy General Counsel/Hearings Manager. There are 30 employees who work in EOHLC’s Legal Division.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (NOT ALL INCLUSIVE):

1. CONDUCTS ADJUDCATORY HEARINGS:

• Structures hearing and clearly explains issues and procedures which govern hearing

• Advises participants of their rights, interprets applicable rules and regulations and determines the admissibility of evidence and testimony presented

• Controls testimony (including evidentiary rulings), identifies and marks exhibits

• Maintains both substance and appearance of impartiality and demonstrates patience and courtesy toward all parties

• Assures that record is fully developed and that all issues are adequately addressed.

2. RENDERS DECISIONS:

• Establishes jurisdiction and identifies issues

• Adequately summarizes evidence and properly identifies exhibits

• Makes appropriate findings of material facts and applies law to facts and makes reasonable legal conclusions based on relevant regulations and standards

• Issues clear and complete directions to the Department

• Writes in complete sentences and with clarity of thought and style, and uses form decisions appropriately

• Submits decisions that have been carefully proof-read

3. PROPERLY APPLIES ALL ASPECTS OF M.G.L. c. 30A, AND OTHER RULES AND REGULATIONS:

• Follows procedures governing rescheduling, continuance and reopening

• Obtains withdrawals only when appropriate and without jeopardizing the rights of the appellant

• Addresses “Good Cause” issues, when relevant

• Uses Interim Orders appropriately

• Confers with management staff and other agency personnel in order to provide or exchange information and solve problems

• Keeps file in order with all documents properly labeled

• Renders decisions in a timely manner

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Good judgment in making decisions and offering advice.

2. Ability to read and comprehend statutes and regulations.

3. Ability to research applicable law, and to draft or orally state understandable, succinct and accurate applications of law to everyday factual situations.

4. Excellent oral and written communication skills.

5. Experience that evidences excellent analytical skills and pro-active problem solving skills.

6. Computer knowledge and skills including, at least intermediate proficiency using Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint.

7. Experience that evidences ability to independently determine specific tasks needed to accomplish an assignment; to prioritize work; to complete assignments in a timely and satisfactory manner; and to carry out multiple assignments simultaneously.

8. Knowledge of legal ethics; excellent independent judgment, interpersonal skills and personal integrity.

9. Knowledge of administrative procedures relating to adjudicatory hearings, deliberations and regulations.

10. Knowledge of emergency assistance, housing and/or rental assistance programs

11. Knowledge of mediation and conflict resolution procedures preferred.

12. Ability to maintain accurate and thorough records and files.

13. Ability to exercise discretion in handling confidential material.

14. Experience that evidences willingness to exercise initiative and to respond rapidly and responsibly to unanticipated events, issues and/or inquiries.

COMMENTS:

Please upload resume and cover letter.

This position would be expected to follow a hybrid model of reporting to work that combines in-office workdays and work from home days, as needed.

Salary placement is determined by years of experience and education directly related to the position and the Human Resources Division’s Recruiting Guidelines. In the case of a promotional opportunity, the salary provisions of the applicable collective bargaining agreement will apply to placement within the appropriate salary range.

Education, licensure and certifications will be verified in accordance with the Human Resources Division’s Hiring Guidelines. Education and license/certification information provided by the selected candidate(s) is subject to the Massachusetts Public Records Law and may be published on the Commonwealth’s website.

• Education toward such a degree will be prorated on the basis of the proportion of the requirements actually completed.

Comprehensive Benefits

When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.

Want the specifics? Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards!