Becoming an Administrative Law Judge

Administrative Law Judges (ALJs) are assigned by the Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH) to conduct administrative hearings, develop the record, and issue decisions for most state agencies and some local governments. The largest number of hearings are conducted for the Employment Security Department (ESD) and the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS). The most common types of hearings include appeals of unemployment benefits, public assistance, child support, contractors' registration, DSHS licensing, special education, and liquor licensing. OAH has field offices in Olympia, Seattle, Spokane, Vancouver, and Yakima.

Administrative Law Judges conduct hearings with the greatest degree of informality (no robes) consistent with fairness and the nature of the proceeding, and issue initial or final decisions, including findings of fact and conclusions of law. Hearings are held both by telephone and in person. Many parties appear pro se.

Qualifications

1. A minimum of five years’ experience as an attorney.

2. Active or Judicial member of the Washington State Bar Association or such a member of any state’s bar association.

3. ALJs must have a demonstrated knowledge of administrative law and procedures.

Compensation/Benefits

Benefits include the comprehensive state retirement and leave package and health, dental, disability, and life insurance coverage. Currently $5,266 - $6,741 monthly, depending upon qualifications.

How to Apply

To apply, submit a letter of interest, resume, completed Application for State Jobs, and a list of three professional references, including current addresses (and E-mail addresses if known) and telephone numbers, to:

Attn: Diana McCutcheon, HRC
Office of Administrative Hearings
PO Box 42488
Olympia WA 98504-2488
Phone: (360) 586-4023
Fax: (360) 664-8721
E-mail: Diana.McCutcheon@oah.wa.gov

Applications will be kept on file for at least six months and considered as openings occur. The initial screening will be based solely on the information you submit.

Need more information?

If you have questions about ALJ or ALJ pro tem positions with OAH, feel free to contact the Assistant Deputy Chief ALJ in the OAH field office you are interested in working in, or contact Selwyn Walters, Deputy Chief ALJ, at 360.664.8717. You can obtain more information about OAH by returning to our OAH Home Page (www.oah.wa.gov).

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