Advance Global Governance as an International Attorney-Advisor

Are you a legal professional with a passion for international development, energy policy, and critical minerals supply chains? The Commercial Law Development Program (CLDP) within the U.S. Department of Commerce is hiring an Attorney-Advisor to join their elite Energy and Minerals team. This unique role allows you to combine your legal expertise with international diplomacy to advance shared economic prosperity.

Job Responsibilities

As an Attorney-Advisor, you will serve as a technical expert for foreign governments. Your primary duties include:

Designing and implementing legal reform programs that meet host-country needs.
Consulting with senior foreign government officials on energy and mining policies.
Drafting and interpreting transactional documents, such as concession agreements and mining codes.
Collaborating with U.S. agencies and external experts to facilitate infrastructure investment.

Comparison of Qualifications

Feature	GS-13 Level	GS-14 Level
Experience Required	3+ Years	6+ Years
Core Competency	Specialized Legal Practice	Senior Advisory/Technical Lead
Impact Scope	Project Implementation	Program Strategy & Policy

Requirements

To be considered, candidates must be U.S. citizens, hold a Juris Doctorate, and maintain an active, good-standing bar membership. Applicants must be prepared to pass a Secret-level security clearance and a drug test. Professional experience in energy, mining, or project finance is essential for success in this high-impact role.

Salary Overview

The salary range for this position is $121,785 to $187,093 per year, commensurate with experience and the selected grade level (GS-13 or GS-14).

This role offers a rare opportunity to influence the global energy landscape from the heart of the U.S. Department of Commerce. If you are an experienced attorney ready to take your career to the international stage, apply via email today.

Why This Attorney Advisor (International) (Public Notice Flyer) Job Matters

Shape the future of global energy and mineral governance as an Attorney-Advisor with the U.S. Department of Commerce.

Attorney Advisor (International) (Public Notice Flyer) Job Overview

The Commercial Law Development Program (CLDP) within the U.S. Department of Commerce is seeking experienced legal professionals to join the Energy and Minerals Team. This role focuses on international technical assistance, partnering with foreign governments to develop legal frameworks that support sustainable investment, critical minerals supply chains, and energy governance. As an Attorney-Advisor, you will influence international policy, facilitate high-level consultations, and draft regulatory standards that advance U.S. foreign policy objectives.

Requirements for Attorney Advisor (International) (Public Notice Flyer)

Must be a U.S. citizen.
Possession of a Juris Doctorate (J.D.) from an ABA-accredited law school.
Active bar membership in good standing in any U.S. state, D.C., Puerto Rico, or the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Three years of specialized professional experience for GS-13; six years for GS-14.
Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret-level security clearance.
Completion of a background investigation, including credit and criminal history checks.
Registration with the Selective Service (if applicable).
Must pass a drug screening.

Preferred Qualifications for Attorney Advisor (International) (Public Notice Flyer)

Experience in energy and mineral sectors including mining, project finance, or infrastructure.
Background in regulatory drafting, enforcement, or insolvency law related to natural resources.
Proven history working with foreign government officials or international development finance institutions.
Demonstrated ability to negotiate and communicate complex legal frameworks to diverse stakeholders.
Foreign language proficiency (preferred but not required).

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive Federal salary schedule.
✓Health and life insurance options.
✓Federal retirement benefits.
✓International travel opportunities (typically 6-8 trips per year).
✓Professional development in international trade and law.
✓Opportunities for telework flexibility.

💡 How to Apply Attorney Advisor (International) (Public Notice Flyer) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Attorney Advisor (International) (Public Notice Flyer) Job

Prepare a cover letter addressing your qualifications and interest in the Energy and Minerals Team.
Create a resume (maximum 2 pages) detailing work experience, including dates, hours per week, and federal grade levels.
Obtain a copy of your law school transcript (unofficial is acceptable initially).
Prepare a certificate of good standing from your state bar.
Send all documents via email to the specified contact addresses with the correct job announcement number in the subject line.
Include your name, address, phone number, and email in the body of the email.

💡 General Tips

Clearly outline your specialized experience in the energy and minerals sector on your resume.
Ensure your resume includes dates of employment and hours per week worked for every position listed.
Highlight any experience coordinating with foreign government entities or international development organizations.
Double-check your email subject line to ensure it matches the specific requirement for this position to avoid routing delays.
Be prepared to provide a legal writing sample if selected for an interview.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is international travel required for this position?

Yes, this role involves regular international travel, averaging approximately 6-8 trips per year to various global destinations.

What level of security clearance is required?

You must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret-level security clearance.

Can I submit my application online through a portal?

No, applications must be submitted directly via email to the addresses provided in the job announcement.

Job from Office Of The Secretary

The CLDP works to build robust commercial legal systems worldwide, supporting U.S. national security and economic objectives. By partnering with foreign governments and international organizations, the program helps draft legislation, reform regulations, and train officials. This work ensures that energy and mineral markets are fair, transparent, and aligned with international standards.