To become a Hearing Officer, you typically need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, have passed the bar exam, and possess legal experience. Specific requirements may vary by state or whether you aim to work at the federal or state level.

Most positions require a law license. Additionally, federal administrative law judges (ALJs) must pass a U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) exam and have at least seven years of experience in litigation or administrative law.

Key skills include a strong understanding of law and criminal law, public administration, legal studies, and research methods. Other useful skills are decision-making, conflict management, public speaking, and knowledge of employment law, psychology, and sociology.

Practicing law for several years, particularly in a judicial capacity or administrative law, is beneficial. Internships at law firms, government agencies, or public interest firms during law school can provide valuable experience and improve job prospects.

Hearing Officers prepare for and preside over hearings, review and analyze evidence, ensure fair proceedings, deliver rulings, write reports, and apply laws and regulations to resolve disputes. They may also conduct settlement negotiations and issue subpoenas.