Associate Reviewing Attorney (Statewide)

Overview

A state agency is seeking several Associate Reviewing Attorneys (ARA) to join its Commission Appeals Department within the Office of General Counsel. This is a non-traditional legal position focused on administrative appeals related to workforce programs. The department is based in Austin, Texas, but attorneys may work remotely from anywhere within the state. Candidates must maintain a reliable work schedule and participate in weekly meetings either in person or via Microsoft Teams during regular business hours.

Responsibilities

• Interpret laws and regulations related to workforce programs administered by the agency.
• Review legal sufficiency of appeals.
• Analyze recorded testimony and documentary evidence from informal, administrative hearings.
• Draft written case summaries and recommendations for resolution, ensuring conformity with existing law, including the Texas Unemployment Compensation Act and Texas Payday law.
• Prepare decisions and correspondence related to cases.
• Conduct informal telephonic hearings as needed.
• Participate in process improvement initiatives.
• Complete work in a timely manner under moderate supervision.

Requirements

• Graduation from an American Bar Association-accredited law school.
• Admission to the State Bar of Texas.
• Ability to meet strict production deadlines and manage multiple priorities.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word and typing speed of at least 50 words per minute.
• Ability to interpret and apply laws and legal reference materials.
• Must be a Texas resident or willing to relocate to Texas.
• Must be eligible to work in the United States without visa sponsorship.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience or knowledge of Texas Payday law and the Texas Unemployment Compensation Act.
• Prior experience conducting informal administrative hearings.
• Experience as a briefing attorney or drafting case digests.
• Familiarity with Commission Appeals policies and procedures.
• Ability to adapt quickly to changing instructions and work well under pressure.

Compensation & Benefits

• Monthly salary of $6,048.00.
• Defined retirement benefit plan.
• Optional 401(k) and 457 retirement accounts.
• Medical insurance.
• Paid time off including vacation, sick, and family care leave.
• Family-friendly certified workplace with opportunities for professional development.

Location

• Position is based in Austin, Texas, with eligibility to work remotely anywhere within the state.
• Attendance at weekly meetings in Austin or via Microsoft Teams is required.

Additional Information

• This is a security-sensitive position under Texas Labor Code Section 301.042.
• Applicants requiring employment visa sponsorship will not be considered.
• Employment eligibility verification is required upon hire.