Chief Unemployment Insurance Appeals Referee

We are seeking a qualified professional with a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree to serve as Chief Unemployment Insurance Appeals Referee. In this quasi-judicial and supervisory capacity, the selected candidate administers the state’s first level of the Unemployment Insurance appeals process by overseeing unit operations, conducting complex administrative hearings, evaluating testimony and evidence, and issuing clear, well-reasoned written decisions in accordance with applicable federal and state laws, rules, and regulations.

This position provides a hybrid work schedule, with in-office and remote work requirements established by management based on operational needs. Positions are assigned to a primary county; however, selected candidates may be required to travel to and provide coverage in other counties, as necessary.

The ideal candidate demonstrates the ability to exercise sound legal judgment; analyze and interpret statutes, regulations, and case law; and communicate effectively in both written and oral formats. Candidates must also demonstrate strong leadership and organizational skills, including the ability to plan, assign, review, and evaluate the work of staff; ensure consistency and timeliness in appeals decisions; and maintain a commitment to impartiality, due process, and public service.

Essential functions are fundamental, core functions common to all positions in the class series and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all job duties for any one position in the class. Since class specifications are descriptive and not restrictive, incumbents can complete job duties of similar kind not specifically listed here.

• Plans, assigns, reviews and evaluates the work of a staff of subordinate referees as well as that of the clerical staff; schedules cases for hearings, monitor appeals operations on a daily basis.
• Communicates and interprets applicable laws, rules and regulations to subordinate referees; provides referee training.
• Reviews hearing decisions of subordinate referees to ensure compliance and correct application of federal and State Unemployment Insurance laws, rules and regulations.
• Conducts the most complex Unemployment Insurance appeals cases in accordance with applicable law; administers oaths and affirmations; issues subpoenas; hears testimony; receives and reviews evidence and rules on its admissibility; regulates and controls the hearing; makes tape recordings of hearings; researches and reviews applicable federal and State laws and precedent cases; renders written case decisions.
• Compiles and/or oversees preparation of statistical reports as required.
• Maintains precedent manual for use by other referees in analyzing cases.
• Periodically reviews all phases of unit operations practices to ensure efficiency and effectiveness.
• Responds to inquiries and complaints from the general public; coordinates decisions with other sections to resolve problems.

JOB REQUIREMENTS for Chief Unemployment Insurance Appeals Referee
Applicants must have education, training and/or experience demonstrating competence in each of the following areas:

1. Possession of a Juris Doctor.
2. Three years experience in quasi judicial proceedings.
3. Three years experience in interpreting laws, rules, regulations, standards, policies, and procedures.
4. Six months experience in legal research which includes researching statutes, regulations, case law and background information.
5. Six months experience in drafting legal documents and writing legal briefs which includes presenting facts, setting out and analyzing legal issues and applying legal precedents.
6. Knowledge of staff supervision acquired through course work, academic training, training provided through an employer, or performing as a lead worker overseeing the work of others; OR supervising staff which may include planning, assigning, reviewing, and evaluating the work of others; OR supervising through subordinate supervisors a group of professional, technical, and clerical employees.

The State of Delaware recognizes the value of telework and flexible working schedules. This position is eligible for Telework according to the State of Delaware’s Alternative Work Arrangement Policy. More information will be shared at the time of interview.

A writing sample will be requested at the time of interview.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. The State of Delaware Executive Branch participates in the Federal E-Verify system where the State will provide the federal government with each new hires Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S. For more information refer to our job seeker resources.

All new hires are required to report to the Statewide New Employee Orientation (SNEO) on their first day of employment. Sessions are held at designated locations in Kent or New Castle County.

Criminal background check:  A satisfactory criminal background check is required as a condition of hire.  The recruiting agency may require the applicant to pay for the criminal background check as part of the conditional offer of hire.

At the State of Delaware, we invest in our people and support them in and outside of the office. Our employees enjoy a total compensation package that far exceeds the value of their base salary. We offer comprehensive benefit plans that will give you peace of mind and security. Below is a list of benefits that are offered to eligible employees:

Health and Well Being

*Health Benefits, Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance

Just In Case

*Disability Insurance, Group Universal Life Insurance

Your Future

*Retirement Benefits, Deferred Compensation

Professional Growth

*Training and Development Programs

Work Life Balance

*Paid Leave, Paid Holidays, Paid Parental Leave, Alternative Work Schedules

More Benefits

*Flexible Spending, Pre-Tax Commuter Benefits, Accident and Critical Illness Insurance

Visit Statewide Benefits for more information!

The application and supplemental questionnaire are evaluated based upon a rating of your education, training and experience as they relate to the job requirements of the position.  It is essential that you provide complete and accurate information on your application and the supplemental questionnaire to include dates of employment, job title and job duties.  For education and training, list name of educational provider, training course titles and summary of course content.   Narrative information supplied in response to the questions must be supported by the information supplied on the application including your employment, education and training history as it relates to the job requirements.

Once you have submitted your application on-line, all future correspondence related to your application will be sent via email.  Please keep your contact information current.  You may also view all correspondence sent to you by the State of Delaware in the “My Applications” tab at StateJobs.Delaware.gov.

Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities in all phases of the application and employment process. 

Individuals who use TDD may request auxiliary aid or service by calling (800) 232-5470 or by visiting delawarerelay.com. 

If you need assistance with an accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or general applicant support, you may call (302) 739-5458 or email jobs@delaware.gov.

The State of Delaware is an Equal Opportunity employer and values a diverse workforce. We strongly encourage and seek out a workforce representative of Delaware including race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression.