Specifications include, but are not limited to: TWC seeks to contract with individuals with a demonstrated ability and documented qualifications to conduct hearings and mediations on behalf of TWC relating to vocational rehabilitation services provided under the Rehabilitation Act and/or independent living services to older individuals who are blind. 1. Reviewing customer appeals; 2. Issuing orders as necessary; 3. Conducting pre-hearing conferences, mediations, and administrative hearings; 4. Developing the record of the hearing; 5. Hearing testimony, reviewing documentary evidence and hearing transcripts; 6. Rendering decisions, based on applicable laws, regulations, rules, and policies which include written findings of fact and conclusions of law; 7. Forwarding the IHO’s decision, including findings of fact and conclusions of law, to the Hearings Coordinator no later than five calendar days prior to the date on which the decision is due; 8. Taking other necessary actions as required or authorized by law, regulations or policy; 9. Issuing a final decision within the timeframe required by law; and, 10. Traveling throughout the state of Texas as needed. 11. Attending scheduled trainings and other meetings required by the agency. 12. Submitting itemized billing on forms authorized or approved by TWC for each assigned case in a timely fashion, but no less than every 60 days. Final billings must be submitted no later than 30 days after issuance of the final filing.