Job Title: Administrative Law Judge
Department/Agency: Office of the Administrative Law Judge (OALJ)
Closing Date: December 13, 2024
Type of Position: Political Appointee
Posting Type: Employment Opportunity/Open to the Public
Pay Grade and Salary Range: GS-18/$85,000 - $98,500 p.a.
Email Your Resume, Cover Letter and References to: OfficeGovElectASG@gmail.com
Your Resume - Attach your updated resume in either a txt, Word document, or PDF format. Confirm the subject line includes the position you are applying for: Office of the Administrative Law Judge (OALJ)
Submit a Cover Letter and Headshot - Include a personalized cover letter explaining your interest and qualifications for the role. Be sure to include a recent headshot photo.
Provide Professional References - Send a list of at least three professional references. Include their names, phone numbers, and email addresses. You are welcome to include letters of reference if available.
General Description
The Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) serves as the head of the Office of Administrative Law Judge (OALJ) within the American Samoa Government. The ALJ is responsible for overseeing the impartial adjudication of administrative disputes and ensuring that hearings are conducted in a fair, transparent, and efficient manner. The ALJ leads the office in presiding over cases such as worker’s compensation claims, government employee grievances, procurement disputes, and other matters requiring administrative resolution.
As the head of the office, the ALJ operates independently of other government agencies and departments, ensuring that all decisions are made based on the facts and the law. They are also responsible for managing office operations, providing leadership to staff, and ensuring that all proceedings comply with legal and ethical standards. This role requires advanced legal expertise, strong leadership abilities, and experience in adjudicative functions within a governmental context.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Leadership and Office Management:
Manage the daily operations of the Office of Administrative Law Judge (OALJ), ensuring compliance with legal and procedural requirements.
Supervise OALJ staff, including hearing clerks, reporters, and other administrative personnel, while ensuring office efficiency and professionalism.
Oversee case management, office scheduling, and record-keeping to ensure smooth and timely proceedings.
Presiding Over Hearings:
Conduct administrative hearings for contested cases, ensuring a fair process for all parties involved.
Rule on procedural matters, including the admissibility of evidence and motions.
Manage hearings efficiently, adhering to legal requirements and fostering an environment of impartiality.
Issuing Decisions and Orders:
Issue legally sound decisions and orders based on findings of fact, conclusions of law, and relevant regulations.
Ensure that all decisions are clearly written, well-reasoned, and in compliance with applicable laws and precedents.
Independence and Impartiality:
Maintain independence from government agencies to ensure impartiality in decision-making.
Ensure that all decisions are free from external influence and based solely on the merits of the case.
Staff Supervision and Development:
Mentor and supervise OALJ staff, fostering a professional and efficient work environment.
Implement training programs to enhance staff knowledge of administrative law, hearing procedures, and case management.
Conduct performance evaluations and provide feedback to ensure high standards of practice.
Legal Guidance and Rulemaking:
Assist agencies in the development of regulations by providing legal advice exclusive to administrative law matters.
Ensure that all legal advice and guidance are consistent with statutory and regulatory requirements.
Recognize the appropriate roles for rule reform and legal advisory services, ensuring compliance with established processes and procedures.
Public and Stakeholder Communication:
Represent the OALJ at public meetings, conferences, and other relevant forums.
Respond to inquiries regarding OALJ functions and decisions, ensuring transparency and clarity in communication.
Foster positive relationships with stakeholders and ensure that the public is informed of the OALJ’s work.
Ethical Oversight and Compliance:
Uphold the ethical standards of the judiciary, ensuring that all actions within the OALJ maintain high levels of integrity.
Ensure that all office operations are in full compliance with the Administrative Procedures Act and other relevant statutes.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Legal Expertise:
Strong knowledge of administrative law, constitutional law, and government regulations.
Ability to apply legal principles to complex cases and issue decisions that are clear, fair, and legally sound.
Adjudicative Competence:
Expertise in managing administrative hearings and issuing fair, impartial decisions.
Strong written and oral communication skills, with the ability to present legal rulings clearly and concisely.
Leadership and Office Management:
Proven ability to lead and manage a legal office, including oversight of case management, scheduling, and administrative staff.
Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple cases simultaneously while ensuring quality outcomes.
Communication and Public Relations:
Ability to communicate effectively with the public, stakeholders, and government entities, ensuring transparency and understanding of the OALJ’s role.
Strong interpersonal skills to maintain professional relationships and foster trust within the legal community.
Ethical Judgment and Independence:
Commitment to fairness, impartiality, and transparency in all aspects of the OALJ’s work.
Ability to make independent decisions without external influence or bias.
Academic and Experience Requirements
Education:
Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree or its equivalent from an accredited law school.
Admission to the bar in American Samoa or eligibility for admission to practice law in American Samoa.
Experience:
A minimum of six years of legal experience, with substantial experience in administrative law, government regulation, or judicial roles.
Significant experience in presiding over hearings, making legal determinations, and issuing binding decisions.
Prior experience in a leadership or managerial capacity in a legal or governmental context is preferred.
Additional Requirements:
In-depth understanding of the laws and regulations of American Samoa, especially as they pertain to administrative law and government procedures.
Experience with government rulemaking, administrative hearings, or other judicial functions within a public service context is highly desirable.
Salary
The salary is competitive and based on experience and qualifications. Specific compensation details will be provided upon request.
Additional Information
For questions regarding the position or application process, please contact the Office of the Governor-Elect directly via email at officegovelectASG@gmail.com
*The American Samoa Government is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified candidates will be considered for political appointments without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal and territorial laws. Appointments will be made based on qualifications, experience, and the ability to serve effectively in alignment with the policies and goals of the administration.
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