Administrative Law Judge - Tax Review Officer (TPS 2)

Company: State of Washington
Location: Olympia
Posted on: June 6, 2021

Job Description:

The Administrative Review & Hearings Division is a division of legal and tax professionals who are passionate about continuous improvement and who actively cultivate a culture of respect, inclusion, and excellence.  If you have a passion for supporting others, find accomplishment in resolving challenging requests, and thrive in an environment where innovative approaches to problem solving are required and alternative solutions are encouraged, the Department of Revenue may have a career opportunity for you!

At Revenue, we put employee safety first and foremost. This is why we will use every resource possible to ensure this hiring process stays within the current guidelines related to COVID-19. If selected to move forward, please be aware interviews may be conducted virtually using a webcam teleconferencing method and most employees are working from home.  

Candidate screening will begin as early as May 27, 2021 and the hiring authority may exercise the option to make a hiring decision at any time after. It will be to the applicant's advantage to submit materials as soon as possible. 

The Administrative Review and Hearings Division (ARHD) hears taxpayer reviews and appeals of department actions. These actions include, the revocation or denial of a reseller permit, the revocation of a business license, the issuance of a tax assessment, the denial of a tax refund and unclaimed property actions. The review process includes analyzing the evidence and/or briefing submitted by the parties, holding hearings, researching relevant cases and authority, and issuing a decision consistent with Washington State law and department policy.

Revenue's unique culture promotes diverse perspectives and life experiences. We employ and serve people of all backgrounds including people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQ+, people with disabilities, and veterans. This unique culture promotes a professional family of cohesive groups maximizing potential through opportunity. Visit this link to find out more about Revenue and read what our employees have to say about working here. As an attorney trained in interpreting and applying tax law and policy, you will hear and resolve taxpayers' petitions for review  of the department's actions, and respond to taxpayers' petitions in writing. Cases cover a variety of complex and interesting tax laws that provide you with opportunities to research and educate taxpayers on how the law is applied.

As a Tax Review Officer and Administrative Law Judge (Tax Policy Specialist 2) in the ARHD, you will manage an active caseload of tax disputes, which includes Brief Adjudicative Proceedings under the Administrative Procedures Act (RCW 34.05. 482-494), and WAC 458-20-100 (Rule 100) reviews. Your responsibilities will include:

• Conducting Brief Adjudicative Proceedings to review the department's initial orders and issuing the final agency decision as an independent fact finder.
• Conducting Rule 100 informal administrative reviews of petitions for correction of tax assessments, refund denials, and adverse interpretive rulings.
• Analyzing, reviewing and providing technical legal and policy recommendations regarding proposed guidance the department is considering.

Admission to practice law in the State of Washington

OR 

graduation from an accredited school of law and current admission to practice before the highest court of a state

AND

two (2) years of experience as a hearings examiner in a governmental agency, assistant attorney general, or a practicing attorney

OR

one (1) year as a DOR Tax Policy Specialist 1.

Note:  An LLM or Master's degree in taxation or closely allied field will substitute for one year of experience.

Successful candidates should possess demonstrated skills to:

• Use technology necessary to conduct the business, including word processing, email and legal software for research (i.e., Westlaw, Lexis).
• Communicate clearly and effectively in writing, using standard rules of language regarding spelling, punctuation, grammar, word usage, sentence structure and composition, and to accurately reference supporting documents and controlling authority.
• Effectively perform legal research, identify the issues in a case and identify areas for further analysis and investigation.
• Remain aware of timeframes and ensure deadlines are successfully met. (It is expected that assigned APA cases are cleared within 20 days; Rule 100 cases are cleared within 90 days).
• Effectively work with others and resolve differences in a timely manner.
• Translate concepts into messages lay persons can readily understand.

To be considered for this position

• Complete your online application in detail, as it will be used as your initial resume.
• Attach a cover letter explaining how you meet the qualifications of this position.
• Attach a legal writing sample.

• Note - Incomplete applications or applications received without these materials may be disqualified.

To take advantage of Veteran's preference, please attach your DD-214, member 4 long form, or your NGB-22. Please blackout your social security number and date of birth before attaching.

Questions?

Hello, my name is Lance and I will be assisting with this announcement. As a 19-year Department of Revenue employee, I understand the importance of finding a rewarding career with a work-life balance. At Revenue, we pride ourselves in connecting talented individuals with opportunity and would like to answer any questions you have.  

Please contact any part of the Staffing team at Jobs@dor.wa.gov or give me a call (360) 704-5725.

The Human Resources Division may use referrals from this recruitment to help fill future similar vacancies for six months. 

Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history will be conducted.  Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant's suitability and competence to perform in the position.

This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement between the Department of Revenue and the Washington Public Employees Association (WPEA). 

The Department of Revenue is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We embrace diversity and offer a respectful, inclusive culture for people with disabilities, as well as members of all protected groups and statuses. We encourage you to apply.

If you need help during the application process, please call the Human Resources Office at 360-704-5731. Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through the Washington Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6388.

Keywords: State of Washington, Olympia , Administrative Law Judge - Tax Review Officer (TPS 2), Other , Olympia, Washington