Deputy Hearing Examiner
King County Council | Legislative Branch via Government Jobz
The Metropolitan King County Council is seeking a highly judicious Deputy Hearing Examiner to join its independent quasi-judicial agency. Featured on Government Jobz, this role serves as a vital impartial arbiter for land use, animal control, and code enforcement appeals across a county of 2.3 million residents.
The Role & Core Responsibilities
You will act on behalf of the Council to apply county policies and regulations through a fair and efficient administrative hearing process. Your findings will shape the urban and rural landscape of one of the nation’s most dynamic regions.
- Adjudication: Conduct impartial hearings on land use permitting, code enforcement, and licensing appeals.
- Legal Writing: Prepare legally sound determinations with comprehensive findings of fact and conclusions of law.
- Procedural Management: Issue orders on motions and ensure all proceedings meet regulatory deadlines.
- Process Improvement: Advise the Hearing Examiner on strengthening Countywide regulations and internal procedural rules.
Qualifications
- Juris Doctor: Must be a member in good standing with the Washington State Bar (WSBA).
- Adjudicatory Experience: 3 years of progressively responsible experience in administrative hearings or contested cases.
- Management: 2 years of supervisory or program management experience.
- Preferred: Strong background in land use law, zoning, and municipal code provisions.
Community Context & Equity
King County is a diverse region where equity and social justice (ESJ) are core to the Hearing Examiner’s mission. To ensure inclusive hearings, the Deputy must understand the demographic landscape of the 2,300,000+ residents served. Based on the most recent U.S. Census and King County demographic data:
Note: Multi-racial individuals account for approximately 6.2% of the population.
Recruitment Timeline
Candidates must submit a resume, cover letter, and a legal writing sample by the February 1st deadline.
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| First Round Interviews | Feb 19 – 20, 2026 |
| Second Round & Writing Exercise | Mar 5 – 6, 2026 |
| Anticipated Start Date | March 30, 2026 |