State of California

Administrative Law Judge

State of California • $10K — $155K *
Legal & Accounting
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 5-7 years of experience in administrative law or similar judicial roles.
  • Strong understanding of California Administrative Procedure Act and related statutes.
  • Ability to analyze complex legal issues and evidence effectively.
  • Proven skills in drafting clear, logical decisions and legal documentation.
  • Capacity to provide mentorship to junior judges and staff.

Responsibilities

  • Preside over quasi-judicial hearings on complex administrative matters.
  • Provide guidance to less experienced Administrative Law Judges.
  • Develop and implement new office policies and enhance existing ones.
  • Maintain control and impartiality during hearings and proceedings.
  • Conduct legal research relevant to cases and summarize evidence accurately.

Benefits

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
  • Generous paid holidays and vacation leave.
  • Defined retirement program.
  • 401(k) and 457 savings plans.
  • Flexible Medical/Dependent Care Reimbursement Accounts.
Full Job Description
About this Role:

The role of the Administrative Law Judge is to preside over quasi-judicial hearings on difficult, complex, and sensitive matters as provided under the Administrative Procedure Act and other state and federal statutes; confer with and assist less experienced Administrative Law Judges with challenging cases and provide guidance; and assist with the development and implementation of new office policies and procedures and the improvement of existing policies and procedures.

This position is subject to the Department's Conflict of Interest Code and filing a Statement of Economic Interests (Form 700) when assuming office, annually while in office, and upon leaving office.

You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement .

Working Conditions

Please see the Telework and Salary Information section below for telework, reporting location, and temporary statewide salary reduction details.

Minimum Requirements You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.
  • ADMINISTRATIVE LAW JUDGE
Additional Documents
  • Job Application Package Checklist
  • Duty Statement

Position Details Job Code #:
JC-533266

Position #(s):
803-034-6016-XXX

Working Title:
Administrative Law Judge

Classification:
ADMINISTRATIVE LAW JUDGE $10,588.00 - $14,547.00 A
$11,105.00 - $15,263.00 B
New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.

# of Positions:
Multiple

Work Location:
Sacramento County

Telework:
Hybrid

Job Type:
Permanent, Full Time

Special Requirements
Simple Application Steps

If you are interested in this position, complete the following simple steps:

  • Review the education and experience minimum qualifications (MQ's) of the Administrative Law Judge . See the Minimum Requirements section above.
  • Complete the statement of qualifications and the state application by clicking "Apply Now" above. See below for detailed application instructions.
  • Submit your application package with all required documents, which include the statement of qualifications - see the "Required Application Package Documents" section below.
  • Once you have applied, take the Administrative Law Judge Examination .


  • Statement of Qualifications Requirement Section

    Applicants must include a Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) for this recruitment. The SOQ is a narrative discussion, not a cover letter, prepared by the applicant describing how their skills, knowledge, abilities, education, training, and experience, qualify them for the position.

    The SOQ serves as documentation of the applicant's ability to present information clearly and provide DHCS additional information about their experience and qualifications concisely in writing. The DHCS may not consider applicants who fail to provide an SOQ with their application. Resumes do not take the place of the SOQ.

    The SOQ must be no more than two pages in length, double spaced and using 12-point font. You must indicate your Full Name and Job Control Number at the top right corner.

    Candidates who do not complete and submit an SOQ may not be considered for this position.

    Application Instructions
    Completed applications and all required documents must be received or postmarked by the Final Filing Date in order to be considered. Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are not considered Postmark dates for the purpose of determining timely filing of an application.
    Final Filing Date: 10/12/2026
    Who May Apply
    Individuals who are currently in the classification, eligible for lateral transfer, eligible for reinstatement, have list or LEAP eligibility, are in the process of obtaining list eligibility, or have SROA and/or Surplus eligibility (please attach your letter, if available). SROA and Surplus candidates are given priority; therefore, individuals with other eligibility may be considered in the event no SROA or Surplus candidates apply. Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).

    How To Apply
    Complete Application Packages (including your Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) and applicable or required documents) must be submitted to apply for this Job Posting. Application Packages may be submitted electronically through your CalCareer Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. When submitting your application in hard copy, a completed copy of the Application Package listing must be included. If you choose to not apply electronically, a hard copy application package may be submitted through an alternative method listed below:

    Address for Mailing Application Packages

    You may submit your application and any applicable or required documents to:

    Department of Health Care Services
    Mailing
    Attn: Certification Technician JC 533266
    M.S. 1300
    P.O. Box 997411
    Sacramento , CA 95899-7411

    Address for Drop-Off Application Packages

    You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:

    Department of Health Care Services
    Drop-Off
    Certification Section JC 533266
    1501 Capitol Avenue, Suite 71.1501

    Sacramento , CA 95814
    Monday - Friday (excluding holidays)
    08:00 AM - 04:00 PM

    Required Application Package Documents

    The following items are required to be submitted with your application. Applicants who do not submit the required items timely may not be considered for this job:
    • Current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678 (when not applying electronically), or the Electronic State Employment Application through your Applicant Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. All Experience and Education relating to the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification should be included to demonstrate how you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position.
    • Resume is required and must be included.
    • Statement of Qualifications - Refer to the Statement of Qualifications Requirement Section for instructions.

    Desirable Qualifications In addition to evaluating each candidate's relative ability, as demonstrated by quality and breadth of experience, the following factors will provide the basis for competitively evaluating each candidate:

    The skill to understand the testimony of expert witnesses in complex matters; identify and analyze relevant facts and complex legal issues; determine the relevance of evidence presented at the hearing; preside over and maintain control of proceedings; recognize and protect the confidentiality of oral and written information; determine the appropriate credibility and weight given to testimony offered; prioritize one's workload with varying degrees of importance, taking into consideration statutory timelines; and draft logical, well-written decisions. The ability to act without supervision or assistance in conducting hearings, ruling on issues presented, and preparing written decisions; maintain a fair and impartial attitude, without bias or prejudice, in all matters; analyze, evaluate, and apply legal principles and evidentiary rules to the facts of a case; communicate effectively in writing with a high level of attention to detail; complete assignments efficiently and on time; accurately summarize evidence; conduct relevant legal research; communicate effectively orally; work well under pressure and in stressful situations; establish cooperative and positive relationships in the workplace; set a positive example and be flexible in response to change. The knowledge of the California Administrative Procedure Act and other principles related to administrative litigation.

    Benefits
    DHCS is dedicated to creating an innovative workplace for its team members that is inclusive, diverse, and interactive! Here are a few of the ways we stay engaged with our team:

    • Continuous and ongoing training
    • Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion program activities
    • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

    Additionally, as a team member of the State of California, you may be eligible for many benefits, such as:

    • Medical, including health, dental, and vision insurance.
    • Paid Holidays and vacation/leave
    • Defined retirement program
    • Savings Plus Program (401(k), 457)
    • Medical/Dependent Care Reimbursement Accounts

    Full benefits information can be found on CalHR's California State Civil Service Employee Benefits Summary

    DHCS 2023-2027 Strategic Plan provides more information about our commitment to serving Californians and organizational excellence.

    We need your help! Please let us know how you heard about our position by taking this brief optional survey: SurveyMonkey link . This survey is not required to be considered for this position.

    Contact Information
    The Hiring Unit Contact is available to answer questions regarding the position or application process.
    Hiring Unit Contact:
    Jeff Cilenti
    (916) 891-3668
    [email protected]

    Telework and Salary Information

    Telework: This position is currently eligible for telework. The amount of telework is at the discretion of the Department and is subject to change consistent with DHCS' Telework Program and Government Code sections 14200 - 14203. Telework is available to California residents, and proof of residency may be required.

    Business travel may be required, and reimbursement considers an employee's designated office and residence subject to regulations and bargaining unit contract provisions. All commute expenses to the reporting location will be the responsibility of the selected candidate.

    The DHCS office location for this position is 3831 N Freeway Blvd., Sacramento, CA 95834.

    Salary: Effective July 1, 2025, the California Department of Human Resources (CalHR) implemented the temporary Personal Leave Program 2025 (PLP 2025). PLP 2025 directs that each employee receive a temporary reduction in pay in exchange for PLP 2025 leave credits. The temporary salary reduction percentage and the number of PLP 2025 leave credits are based on the position's associated bargaining unit. The salary range(s) included in this job advertisement do not include the temporary salary reduction. Please reach out to the hiring unit contact listed on this job advertisement for details.

    Additional Information

    Using the online application system as specified in the announcement is the preferred method of applying for civil service job opportunities; however, applicants may instead apply by way of U.S. mail, parcel delivery or courier service, or in person, as set forth in this announcement.

    Paper applications must include a signature.Dates printed on envelopes by mobile barcodes or equivalent mobile print technology are not acceptable proof of the date the application and any other required documents or materials were filed.

    Applicants must state their basis of eligibility (List Eligibility, Lateral Transfer, Reinstatement, T&D, or Surplus/SROA), and the Job Control (JC) number and/or position number in the "Examination(s) or Job Title(s), For Which You Are Applying" section on the STD. 678. Surplus/SROA candidates should submit a copy of their letter with their application. Please remove any confidential information (i.e., social security number, date of birth, etc.) as well as any information regarding your LEAP eligibility and/or exam scores from your documents prior to submission.

    All information on the Employment Application (STD 678) must be completed. Applicants should include all employment history on the Employment Application (STD 678), including detailed job descriptions, hours worked

    About State of California

    The State of California is a government entity responsible for providing a variety of services to its residents, including education, healthcare, and public safety. The state was admitted to the Union in 1850 and has since grown to become the most populous state in the United States. California is known for its diverse geography, including beaches, mountains, and deserts. The state government is committed to promoting economic growth and improving the quality of life for all Californians.
    Learn more about State of California
    Size
    150 employees
    Industry
    NASDAQ

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