Hearings Officer Manager / 60015012

Job Responsibilities

The Agency's mission is to be boldly innovative in improving the health and quality of life for South Carolinians.

This position is located in Appeals and Hearings, Richland County.

Are you the One? We are looking for a Hearings Officer Manager who, under the Program Manager's supervision, serves as manager of assigned Office of Appeals and Hearings (A&H) staff members and as a hearing officer to ensure the agency meets its obligations to provide beneficiaries and providers with due process by allowing same to appeal any adverse decision or delay by the agency.

• Acts as interim Chief Hearing Officer when the Chief Hearing Officer is out of the office. Supervises and assists with training Hearing Officers. Oversees support staff to ensure their work is effective in assisting the Hearing Officers and the manager; and ensures adherence to the SC Administrative Procedures Act and state law, regulations and policy regarding Medicaid. Provides support to the Chief Hearing Officer by assisting with the evaluation of incoming appeals, determining the correct classification in the Appeals Case Management System (ACMS) and assigning to the hearing officer when needed. Reads final decisions prior to issuance as needed. Attends agency meetings to assist with providing guidance to agency staff on the Appeals and Hearings Process when needed.

• Maintains active complex caseload, which may occasionally require travel to hearings locations outside of regular work location. Provides beneficiaries with due process by allowing same to appeal any adverse decision or delay by the agency. Researches and analyzes cases for jurisdiction, identifies issues in controversy, prepares for hearing. Where possible, encourages speedy disposition of cases by settlement negotiation, issue narrowing or other creative means where appropriate while maintaining due process and fairness to both parties. Corresponds with parties and conducts hearings. Drafts and publishes final administrative orders and other orders as needed. Prepares cases for appeal to the ALC if necessary. Functions as a team player by supporting fellow hearing officers as appropriate. Conducts hearings which cannot be resolved through prehearing means. Rules on all motions and requests. Ensures due process is afforded to parties by allowing them to present evidence and witnesses and to cross-examine opposing witnesses at the hearing. Moves cases toward hearing and through the process to final order within the relevant appeal timeline.

• Tracks developments in state and federal laws affecting Medicaid and disability law. Provides assistance and expertise to all areas of the agency in need of information regarding A&H. Identifies issues that could impact A&H and advises team regarding same.

• Performs other duties as assigned by program manager.

The South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services offers an exceptional benefits package for FTE and TGE positions that includes:

• Health, Dental, Vision, Long Term Disability, and Life Insurance for Employee, Spouse, and Children.

• 15 days annual (vacation) leave per year.

• 15 days sick leave per year.

• 13 paid holidays.

• State Retirement Plan and Deferred Compensation Programs.

Minimum and Additional Requirements

A bachelor's degree and experience in social services or related experience.

Bachelor's degree must be from a college or higher education institution recognized by the U.S Department of Education and Council for Higher Education.

PREFERRED: Juris Doctorate from an accredited law school.

Must have and maintain a valid driver's license.

Additional Requirements:

• Occasional overnight travel.

• Requires holder to drive routinely.

• Valid driver's license.

• Overtime and/or weekend work with Deputy approval.

• Sitting or standing for long periods of time.

• Lifting requirements: 20 lbs.

• Must have proficient communication skills both verbal and written. Open to cultural/demographic diversity. Ability to communicate at an acceptable level with the general public. Ability to make and keep schedules. Basic computer and math skills. Capable of using standard office equipment.

• Some knowledge of Medicaid and/or the Social Security Administration Disability program preferred. Prior experience as a hearing officer, attorney specializing in administrative law, or a position involving appellate review a plus.

Preferred Qualifications

• Juris Doctorate preferred.

• Knowledge of the laws of South Carolina.

• Ability to communicate effectively.

• Excellent reasoning and writing ability.

• Ability to interpret laws and judicial decisions.

• Should possess excellent research and organizational skills.

• Some clerkship experience preferred.

• Must be able to manage and lead diverse staff.

• Understanding of Federal laws and regulations and their implications to SC Medicaid.

Additional Comments

Please complete the State application to include all current and previous work history and education. A resume will not be accepted nor reviewed to determine if an applicant has met the qualifications for the position. Supplemental questions are considered part of your official application for qualification purposes. All applicants must apply online. All correspondence from the Office of Human Resources will be through electronic mail.

The South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, including, but not limited, to lactation), national origin, age (40 or older), disability or genetic information.