Hearing Officer

The NEBRASKA DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION (NDE) is seeking attorneys admitted to practice in Nebraska who have at least three (3) years of trial or administrative hearing experience to form a panel of qualified candidates to serve as Special Education hearing officers for cases assigned by NDE Legal Services, pursuant to The Nebraska Special Education Act and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), which shall include the following services:

A. Prepare cases for hearing, including setting a time, and place for hearings.

B. Arrange for a recording of hearings by a court reporter after clearing charges for the court reporter with NDE Legal Services.

C. Conduct hearings in accordance with federal and state laws and regulations relating to special education.

D. Prepare a written report, written orders or order, and a written synopsis of each decision in a prompt manner and in compliance with the time limits provided by law.

E. Maintain the original files of each case until a final order is rendered. At such time as the final order is rendered, the original file will be given to NDE.

F. Consult with other hearing officers, as necessary, regarding procedures.

G. Attend training or information sessions for hearing officers conducted by the NDE or approved by NDE.

Pursuant to 34 CFR § 300.515(c), an appointed hearing officer will conduct the due process hearing and issue a decision within 45 days of receiving the Petition. Proceedings will be governed under Title 92 Nebraska Administrative Code (NAC), Chapters 28 and 61.

Each hearing officer, when appointed, will independently conduct any necessary administrative hearings and associated work in accordance with applicable state and federal law, and will prepare a written decision, order, or recommendation, for each assigned case, within the timelines established by NDE and pursuant to IDEA. Each hearing officer will be required to contract as an independent contractor with NDE to hear or review cases as assigned when selected from the panel to conduct a review or hearing.

The deadline for applications is Tuesday, September 23rd at 5:00 p.m. Central Time.

Submit resume and other pertinent information (including hourly rate) to: NDE.legalservices@nebraska.gov or call Troy Hawk, NDE Legal Counsel, at (531) 510-3742 for further information.

Job Type: Contract

Pay: $1.00 - $100,000.00 per hour

Expected hours: 1 – 40 per week

Work Location: Remote