Attorney, Administrative Law Judge (UI Appeals)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Attorney, Administrative Law Judge (UI Appeals)

Company: State of Indiana

Location: Indianapolis, Indiana, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Government & Public Sector / Legal / Administrative

Date Posted: 2026-08-07

Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role serves as an impartial Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) for Unemployment Insurance (UI) Appeals, presiding over hearings and rendering legally sound decisions.

• The position requires a deep understanding and application of Indiana Code, Indiana Administrative Code, and relevant federal guidelines (USDOL Criteria Handbook) in adjudication.

• Key responsibilities include meticulous case file review, ruling on pre-hearing motions, and conducting hearings primarily via telephone, with occasional in-person requirements.

• Success in this role hinges on the ability to assimilate complex information, conduct fair and impartial proceedings, and produce well-reasoned written decisions supported by factual findings and conclusions of law.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the raw input does not explicitly state "Revenue Operations," "Sales Operations," or "GTM," this role as an Administrative Law Judge involves significant decision-making, process adherence, and the application of legal frameworks to resolve disputes. This translates to a need for strong analytical skills, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to manage a caseload efficiently, which are transferable skills highly valued in operations roles focused on process integrity and compliance. The emphasis on "metrics," "improvement," and "efficiencies" within the Indiana Department of Workforce Development's mission also aligns with operational objectives.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct administrative hearings as an impartial judge, ensuring adherence to Indiana Code 22-4-17-6, Indiana Rules of Trial Procedure, and Indiana Rules of Evidence.

• Preside over both in-person and predominantly telephone-based hearings, managing proceedings effectively with mostly unrepresented parties.

• Thoroughly review and analyze case files prior to scheduling hearings, identifying key issues and potential procedural complexities.

• Rule upon pre-hearing motions, applying legal principles and procedural rules to ensure fairness and due process.

• Obtain all necessary facts and evidence during hearings to establish a comprehensive and legally defensible record.

• Issue timely, well-supported written decisions containing clear conclusions of law that are grounded in specific findings of fact.

• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of current and applicable laws, regulations, and legal precedents affecting unemployment insurance appeals.

• Review and certify hearing transcripts when required, ensuring accuracy and completeness.

• Perform minimum required travel for any necessary in-person hearings.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize meticulous case management, legal analysis, and decision-making under established procedures. This is akin to managing complex operational workflows where adherence to policy, data integrity, and timely resolution are critical. The requirement to "think outside-the-box" and "determine metrics for measurement and improvement" within DWD's mission statement suggests an operational mindset is valued, even in a legal capacity.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Juris Doctorate (J.D.) from an accredited law institution. Experience:

• Minimum of 2-5 years of legal experience, demonstrating a strong understanding of legal principles and procedural application.

• Experience in administrative law, adjudication, or dispute resolution is highly beneficial. Required Skills:

• Admission to the Indiana State Bar and maintenance of good standing.

• Comprehensive knowledge of the Indiana Rules of Evidence and Indiana Rules of Civil Procedure.

• Demonstrated ability to conduct fair, impartial, and objective hearings.

• Exceptional ability to assimilate oral and written data rapidly, analyze facts critically, and draw logical, legally sound conclusions.

• Strong written communication skills, with the capacity to draft clear, concise, and legally defensible decisions.

• Proficiency in independent work, managing a caseload, and prioritizing tasks effectively.

• Effective verbal communication and interpersonal skills for conducting hearings and interacting with parties. Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with unemployment insurance law and the USDOL Criteria Handbook.

• Experience working with unrepresented parties in a legal or quasi-legal setting.

• Proficiency in utilizing legal research databases and case management systems.

• Experience with conducting hearings via telephone or virtual platforms.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a strong legal foundation. For an operations context, this translates to a need for rigorous analytical skills, adherence to procedural frameworks, and the ability to interpret complex data (legal precedents, case facts) to drive actionable outcomes (decisions). The emphasis on "metrics," "improvement," and "efficiencies" in the department's mission suggests that candidates who can demonstrate how their legal analysis contributes to these operational goals will be highly regarded.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate experience in managing a caseload, showcasing efficient workflow management and timely resolution of cases.

• Provide examples of written decisions that clearly articulate findings of fact and conclusions of law, highlighting analytical rigor and legal reasoning.

• Showcase an understanding of procedural fairness and due process in case handling and hearing conduct.

• Illustrate the ability to apply complex legal rules (Evidence, Civil Procedure) to factual scenarios to achieve consistent and equitable outcomes. Process Documentation:

• Exhibit a systematic approach to case file review, including pre-hearing analysis and motion adjudication.

• Document the process for conducting hearings, emphasizing impartiality, thorough record-building, and effective management of proceedings.

• Detail the methodology for drafting and finalizing written decisions, ensuring accuracy, clarity, and legal sufficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: Although this role is legal in nature, the "Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements" are framed to align with operational expectations. Applicants should highlight their structured approach to case management, decision-making processes, and how they ensure compliance and efficiency in their legal work, mirroring operational best practices in process optimization and documentation.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• The starting salary for this position is $67,314.00 annually.

• The final salary may be commensurate with education and relevant work experience.

• Applicants are encouraged to use the State of Indiana's Compensation Calculator for a comprehensive understanding of the total compensation package. Benefits:

• Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental insurance plans.

• Wellness Rewards Program with gift card incentives for completing wellness activities.

• Health Savings Account (HSA) with bi-weekly state contributions.

• Deferred compensation 457(b) plan with an employer match, similar to a 401(k).

• Two fully-funded pension plan options.

• Generous leave policies including:

  • 150 hours of paid New Parent Leave.
  • Up to eight weeks of paid Childbirth Recovery Leave for eligible mothers.
  • Up to 15 hours of paid community service leave.

• Combined 180 hours of paid vacation, personal, and sick leave.

• 12 paid holidays (14 on election years).

• Education Reimbursement Program.

• Group life insurance.

• Referral Bonus program.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offering covered behavioral health visits.

• Eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program.

• Free parking for most positions.

• Free LinkedIn Learning access for professional development. Working Hours:

• This is a full-time, exempt position.

• Standard working hours are assumed to be 40 hours per week.

• Exempt employees may work beyond 75 hours in a pay period without additional compensation and are required to report a minimum of 75 hours of work or paid leave per pay period.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary is provided as a starting point. The benefits package is extensive and typical for state government employment, emphasizing work-life balance and long-term financial security. The "exempt" status for working hours is a critical detail for managing workload expectations.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: State Government / Public Sector / Legal Services. The Indiana Department of Workforce Development (DWD) aims to build a premier workforce, attract businesses, and utilize cutting-edge technologies for economic growth. The culture emphasizes innovative thinking, data-driven decision-making, and continuous improvement.

Company Size: The State of Indiana is one of the largest employers in the state, comprising over 60 agencies. This indicates a large, complex organizational structure with diverse career paths and robust support systems.

Founded: While the founding date of the State of Indiana is not provided, its long history suggests a stable and established employer with deep roots in public service. The Indiana Department of Workforce Development's mission implies a forward-looking approach to workforce development.

Team Structure:

• The Administrative Law Judge role operates within the Indiana Department of Workforce Development, likely within a division dedicated to adjudications or appeals.

• ALJs report to an Appeals Supervisor or a similar managerial role, indicating a structured hierarchy focused on oversight and quality assurance of legal decisions.

• Collaboration is expected with support staff and potentially with other legal professionals within DWD, as well as with parties involved in UI appeals. Methodology:

• Data Analysis & Insights: The DWD mission highlights the use of "cutting edge technologies" and "metrics" to measure and improve workforce development. This implies a data-informed approach to operations and policy.

• Workflow Planning & Optimization: The expectation for employees to "think outside-the-box" and identify "efficiencies" suggests a culture that values process improvement and operational streamlining.

• Automation & Efficiency Practices: While not explicitly stated for the ALJ role, the broader DWD mission points towards leveraging technology to enhance service delivery and operational effectiveness.

Company Website: https://www.in.gov/dwd/

📝 Enhancement Note: The context emphasizes a public service mission with an evolving approach that incorporates modern operational principles like data analysis and efficiency. This suggests a blend of traditional government structure with a modern operational outlook.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a mid-level within the legal and administrative adjudication domain. It requires a professional license (J.D., Bar Admission) and independent judgment, placing it beyond entry-level support roles. The potential for supervisory responsibilities further indicates a pathway for advancement.

Reporting Structure: The Administrative Law Judge reports to an Appeals Supervisor. This structure provides guidance, oversight, and a clear chain of command, typical in government and legal environments.

Operations Impact: While not a traditional "revenue operations" role, the ALJ's decisions have a direct impact on the financial well-being of individuals and the administration of state resources. Accurate and fair adjudication ensures the integrity of the unemployment insurance system, contributing to economic stability and public trust. The emphasis on "metrics," "improvement," and "efficiencies" within DWD underscores the operational significance of each role in achieving broader organizational goals.

Growth Opportunities:

• Legal Specialization: Deepen expertise in administrative law, UI appeals, and related legal fields, becoming a subject matter expert.

• Leadership Development: Potential to move into supervisory roles, managing a team of ALJs or appeals specialists, focusing on process oversight and team performance.

• Process Improvement Initiatives: Contribute to refining hearing procedures, decision-writing templates, and case management workflows to enhance efficiency and fairness within the appeals process.

• Cross-functional Projects: Participate in projects aimed at improving DWD's overall operations, potentially involving technology adoption or policy review related to workforce development.

📝 Enhancement Note: Growth here is defined by increasing legal expertise, leadership in a specialized area, and contributing to the operational efficiency of the department, aligning with typical career progression in specialized professional roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site office position located at 10 N. Senate Ave. Indianapolis, IN 46204. The environment is professional and administrative, focused on legal adjudication.

Office Location(s): The primary work location is Indianapolis, Indiana. The State of Indiana offers multiple locations across the state for various roles, but this specific position is based in Indianapolis.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is likely an office setting with private or semi-private spaces for conducting hearings and preparing decisions, emphasizing focus and confidentiality.

• Access to necessary legal resources, databases, and potentially case management software is expected.

• Opportunities for interaction with the appeals supervisor and support staff exist, fostering a collaborative environment for case resolution and knowledge sharing. Work Schedule:

• The position is full-time, with an expected 40-hour work week.

• As an exempt employee, flexibility may be required to manage caseloads, potentially involving work beyond standard hours without additional compensation to meet deadlines and ensure timely decision-making.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement and structured office environment are typical for government legal positions. The emphasis on "exempt" status highlights the need for self-management and dedication to completing responsibilities regardless of strict hourly limits.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Application Screening: Initial review of applications and resumes to confirm qualifications (J.D., Bar Admission, experience).

• Skills Assessment: Potential for a written exercise or case study simulating a hearing scenario or requiring the drafting of a decision, assessing analytical and writing abilities.

• Interview(s): Structured interviews focusing on legal knowledge, impartiality, case management skills, problem-solving abilities, and cultural fit with the DWD's mission. Candidates may be asked to discuss their approach to handling complex cases or difficult parties.

• Final Evaluation: Assessment based on overall qualifications, interview performance, and demonstrated ability to meet the role's stringent requirements.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Case Decision Samples: If possible and permissible by ethical guidelines, provide anonymized samples of written decisions that showcase your legal reasoning, clarity, and adherence to procedural requirements.

• Process Flow Description: Detail your systematic approach to managing a caseload, from initial file review to final decision, emphasizing efficiency and accuracy.

• Legal Research/Analysis Examples: Highlight instances where you conducted complex legal research and applied it to reach a well-supported conclusion.

• Focus on Impartiality: Be prepared to discuss how you ensure fairness and impartiality in all aspects of your work, especially during hearings.

Challenge Preparation:

• Legal Reasoning: Practice applying Indiana Code and Rules of Evidence/Civil Procedure to hypothetical fact patterns.

• Decision Writing: Prepare to outline the key components of a well-reasoned legal decision and articulate your thought process for reaching conclusions.

• Hearing Management: Be ready to describe how you would conduct an administrative hearing, manage parties, and establish a complete record.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process for legal roles within government often involves rigorous vetting. Candidates should prepare to demonstrate not only legal acumen but also their understanding of public service principles and operational efficiency within a regulated environment.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Legal Research Databases: Proficiency with platforms like Westlaw, LexisNexis, or similar legal research tools is essential for staying current with laws and precedents.

• Case Management Systems: Experience with government or legal case management software for tracking cases, scheduling hearings, and managing documentation.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Strong command of Word for drafting decisions, Excel for data tracking (if applicable), and Outlook for communication.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary analytics role, the ability to interpret data from case files and potentially contribute to departmental metrics is implied by the DWD's mission. Understanding of reporting requirements for case disposition and timeliness is crucial. CRM & Automation:

• Specific CRM systems are unlikely to be central, but any experience with workflow automation tools that streamline administrative or legal processes would be a plus, aligning with the DWD's focus on efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is typical for legal professionals in a government setting, focusing on research, case management, and standard office productivity tools. The emphasis on "cutting edge technologies" and "metrics" suggests an openness to adopting new tools that enhance efficiency.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity & Impartiality: Upholding the highest standards of fairness and objectivity in all legal proceedings and decisions.

• Efficiency & Timeliness: Commitment to managing caseloads effectively and delivering decisions promptly to serve the public interest.

• Legal Excellence: Dedication to maintaining up-to-date legal knowledge and applying it accurately.

• Public Service: A commitment to serving the citizens of Indiana by ensuring a just and effective unemployment insurance appeals system.

• Continuous Improvement: A mindset of seeking ways to enhance processes, improve decision quality, and contribute to the department's overall mission.

Collaboration Style:

• Teamwork: Working collaboratively with the appeals supervisor and support staff to ensure smooth case processing and operational efficiency.

• Respectful Communication: Engaging with parties in hearings and colleagues in a professional and respectful manner, even in adversarial situations.

• Knowledge Sharing: Contributing to a team environment where legal insights and best practices are shared to improve collective performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture emphasizes a strong ethical foundation, a commitment to public service, and an evolving operational focus on efficiency and data-driven improvements.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing High Caseloads: Effectively handling a significant volume of cases while maintaining accuracy and timeliness.

• Handling Unrepresented Parties: Communicating complex legal procedures and requirements clearly to individuals who may not have legal representation.

• Maintaining Impartiality: Ensuring objectivity and fairness when faced with emotional testimony or complex factual disputes.

• Keeping Pace with Legal Changes: Continuously updating knowledge of evolving laws and precedents relevant to unemployment insurance.

• Balancing Efficiency with Due Process: Adhering to strict deadlines while ensuring all parties have a full and fair opportunity to present their case.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Legal Training: Access to ongoing professional development in administrative law and UI adjudication.

• Mentorship: Opportunities to learn from experienced ALJs and supervisors.

• Process Improvement Contributions: Involvement in projects to refine operational procedures within the appeals process.

• State Employee Benefits: Access to LinkedIn Learning for a broad range of professional skills development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to high-volume legal adjudication roles, requiring strong time management, communication, and analytical skills. Growth opportunities are tied to deepening legal expertise and contributing to operational enhancements.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to conducting an impartial administrative hearing, especially when dealing with parties who are unrepresented or highly emotional." (Focus on process, fairness, evidence gathering).

• "How do you ensure your written decisions are legally sound, well-supported by facts, and clearly articulated?" (Focus on methodology, legal analysis, writing clarity).

• "Walk me through your process for reviewing a complex case file and preparing for a hearing." (Focus on organization, critical thinking, pre-hearing analysis). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about public service and specifically working for the State of Indiana?" (Focus on mission alignment, commitment to Hoosiers).

• "How do you approach staying current with legal changes and applying them to your work?" (Focus on continuous learning, professional development).

• "The DWD mission emphasizes metrics, improvement, and efficiencies. How do you see your role contributing to these goals?" (Focus on operational mindset, data awareness, process contribution). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: If presenting case studies, organize them logically: Situation (case facts), Task (your role/objective), Action (your process/analysis), Result (your decision and its rationale).

• Clarity: Clearly articulate your legal reasoning and the specific rules or statutes you applied.

• Impartiality Focus: Emphasize how you maintained fairness and objectivity throughout the process.

• Efficiency Metrics (if applicable): If you have data on your case disposition times or other efficiency metrics, be prepared to share them.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should bridge legal expertise with an understanding of the operational goals and public service mission of the State of Indiana and the DWD.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the official Indiana State Personnel application portal linked from the job posting.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight your Juris Doctorate, Indiana State Bar admission, and any experience relevant to administrative law, hearings, legal research, and decision writing. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., caseload volume managed, types of cases handled).

• Portfolio Curation: Prepare anonymized examples of legal writing (briefs, memos, or decision excerpts if ethically permissible) that demonstrate your analytical skills and clarity. Be ready to discuss your process for managing legal cases and conducting hearings.

• Interview Preparation: Thoroughly research the Indiana Department of Workforce Development and the role of an Administrative Law Judge. Practice answering behavioral and situational questions related to impartiality, legal analysis, and case management.

• Company Research: Understand the State of Indiana's commitment to public service and the DWD's mission to develop a premier workforce. Be prepared to articulate how your skills align with these broader goals, particularly regarding efficiency and improvement.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

---