Hearing Officer - Human Services Board

How to Apply

Please send your resume and cover letter to contact.hsb@vermont.gov attention: Joseph Reinert, Chief Hearing Officer, VT Human Services Board. Application deadline is September 13, 2026.

Overview

This position conducts fair hearings for the Human Services Board.  Fair hearings entail the taking of evidence, ruling on procedural issues, and making factual findings and legal recommendations to the Board regarding appeals from a variety of decisions by programs and departments of the VT Agency of Human Services (e.g., Emergency Housing, Medicaid, 3SquaresVT, Reach Up, Vermont’s health exchange, other public benefits programs, as well as abuse substantiations and licensing decisions).   

Hearing officers are expected to perform duties impartially and in a manner respectful of the parties and process; to advise the Board as requested and needed; to have competence in the substantive legal areas involved in appeals; to deal effectively and appropriately with a wide range of litigants (including the many of those appearing pro se); and, to work independently. Related duties include managing the appeals docket efficiently and effectively, conforming to statutory guidance and requirements on timeliness, and communicating effectively with colleagues, support staff, parties and attorneys.  The Board’s hearing officers must conform with the professional and ethical standards contained in Vermont’s General Rule for Executive Branch Administrative Hearing Officers.

This is a hybrid position but primarily remote.  Many hearings are conducted by telephone and video, with the potential need for in-person hearings. 

Candidates for this position must be admitted to practice law in Vermont (or be eligible for admission) and have sufficient experience and/or demonstrated ability regarding hearing management, motion practice, evidentiary rulings, and legal decision-making/writing.

Selection for this position requires appointment by the Human Services Board, with approval by the Governor.

Compensation

Salary is determined in accordance with the State of Vermont’s Attorney Pay Plan. 

Equal Opportunity Statement