Hearing Officer

Distinguishing Features of the Class

Presides over hearings for appeals brought by citizens of the community protesting decisions and application of ordinances and policies of the City of Des Moines related to personal property removals. The principal function of an employee in this class is to preside over these hearings by scheduling date, time and location of hearing; ascertaining pertinent facts by questioning witnesses and reviewing documents; and ruling on appeals brought by citizens contesting violations of City of Des Moines ordinances and policies. The work is performed independent of direct supervision with general oversight by the Legal department and the Neighborhood Services department. At issue is encampments, and other such violations as appropriate.

• Knowledge of City of Des Moines ordinances and policies;
• Knowledge of procedures followed in the conduct of contested case hearings;
• Ability to exercise control over contested violations to ensure that relevant facts, information and evidence are presented;
• Ability to exercise fair and independent judgement;
• Ability to analyze facts and make sound decisions based on evidence presented and applicable laws, ordinances, rules and processes;
• Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing in regard to the issues presented;
• Ability to displays high standards of ethical conduct, honesty and integrity;
• Thorough knowledge of the judicial process;
• Ability to interpret the intent of the City' ordinances and policies and relate them to specific cases;
• Ability to write and issue decisions and orders;
• Skill in negotiations and in persuasion of others, including both individuals and groups;
• Ability to communicate effectively with others, both orally and in writing, using both technical and non-technical language;
• Ability to make administrative and procedural decisions and judgements on sensitive, confidential issues.
• Ability to prepare and present accurate and reliable reports containing findings and recommendations.
• Strong critical thinking skills; ability to synthesize and interpret complex issues and to create integrated solutions and recommendations.

Acceptable Experience and Training

• Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university in any field. Licensed attorneys preferred;
• Considerable legal and/or related legal experience;
• Some experience interpreting and applying the state, federal or municipal ordinances, laws and policies; and
• Any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to perform the work.

Required Special Qualifications

• Candidates for positions in this class must pass a post-employment offer physical examination, drug screen and background check.
• Possession of a valid Iowa driver’s license or evidence of equivalent mobility.

Examples of Essential Work (Illustrative Only)

• Schedules dates and times of hearings;
• Hears oral testimony from appellants;
• Listens to others and responds appropriately;
• Maintains control of hearing room which may be conducted in-person or by remote means;
• Writes and issues decisions and orders;
• Expresses information to individuals or groups effectively, taking into account the audience and nature of the information
• Studies general municipal law for information and precedents having bearing on appeals;
• Keeps appropriate City staff fully and accurately informed concerning work progress, including present and potential problems and suggestions for new or improved ways of addressing such problems;
• Responds to citizen appeals in a timely manner.

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Closing Date/Time: 2/24/2025 4:00 PM Central

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• City of Des Moines

• 515-283-4213

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