Pursuing a Career as a General Attorney at the U.S. Department of Commerce
Are you a legal professional seeking a role that balances high-level strategy with national public service? The U.S. Department of Commerce (DOC) is currently seeking talented attorneys to join the Office of the General Counsel (OGC). This is a unique opportunity to work on complex matters that influence national policy, innovation, and economic opportunity.
Job Responsibilities
Attorneys within the DGCA handle high-stakes matters across several key divisions:
- Employment Litigation and Information (ELI): Manages litigation and oversight regarding information law.
- Ethics Law and Program (ELP): Ensures compliance and mitigates conflicts of interest across the department.
- Legislation and Regulation (L&R): Oversees the rulemaking process and legislative liaison functions.
- Office of Accountability (OA): Investigates serious misconduct and ensures workplace performance standards.
- Transactions and Program Management (TPM): Provides guidance on real property, financial assistance, and procurement law.
Salary and Grade Comparison
This position utilizes a career ladder, allowing attorneys to grow within the department.
| Grade Level | Typical Requirements |
|---|---|
| GS-11 | J.D. + Bar Membership |
| GS-12 | GS-11 + 1 year of legal experience |
| GS-13 | 2 years of relevant professional experience |
| GS-14 | 3 years of relevant legal experience |
| GS-15 | 4 years of relevant legal experience |
Requirements
To be eligible, you must be a U.S. citizen, hold a J.D. from an accredited law school, and maintain an active bar membership. You will also be subject to a comprehensive background check.
Application Tips
- Tailor Your Resume: Keep it to 2 pages and clearly list hours worked per week.
- PDF Formatting: Ensure files are unencrypted for review.
- Clear Subject Lines: Follow the naming convention exactly as requested in the instructions.
Serving as a General Attorney for the Department of Commerce offers a path to meaningful impact. With a clear career ladder and a wide breadth of practice areas, this role is ideal for those dedicated to upholding the integrity of the federal government. Prepare your materials today and submit them to the designated email address to be considered.
Why This General Attorney (Public Notice Flyer) Job Matters
Shape the future of national policy and economic growth as a General Attorney within the U.S. Department of Commerce.
General Attorney (Public Notice Flyer) Job Overview
The Office of the General Counsel (OGC) at the Department of Commerce is seeking dedicated legal professionals to join the Office of the Deputy General Counsel for Administration (DGCA). This is a public notice announcement for multiple General Attorney vacancies ranging from GS-11 to GS-15. Successful candidates will provide essential legal services and strategic counsel, ensuring that the department maintains high standards of conduct, regulatory compliance, and mission-driven governance.
Requirements for General Attorney (Public Notice Flyer)
- U.S. Citizenship
- Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school
- Active bar membership in any of the 50 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, or the U.S. Virgin Islands
- Ability to pass a comprehensive background investigation
- Must be able to register for or be exempt from Selective Service (if applicable)
- Commitment to receiving salary payments via direct deposit
Preferred Qualifications for General Attorney (Public Notice Flyer)
- One year of specialized legal experience equivalent to the next lower grade level
- Demonstrated expertise in employment law, litigation, ethics, or legislative review
- Superior academic record
- Experience in regulated industries or administrative law
- Ability to analyze complex legal issues and communicate findings clearly to diverse stakeholders
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary and advancement opportunities
- ✓Work-life balance with telework eligibility
- ✓Opportunity to work on nationally significant legal matters
- ✓Structured career ladder from GS-11 to GS-15
- ✓Comprehensive federal benefits package
💡 How to Apply General Attorney (Public Notice Flyer) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for General Attorney (Public Notice Flyer) Job
- Prepare a resume (maximum 2 pages) detailing work experience, education, and dates of service.
- Draft a cover letter that addresses your specific qualifications and interest.
- Obtain a copy of your law school transcript.
- Verify proof of current bar membership.
- Email all documents in a single PDF file to [email protected].
- Use the subject line: General Attorney - DGCA GS-[Grade Level], [Last Name], [First Initial].
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the 2-page limit.
- Be specific about the grade level for which you are applying.
- Ensure your PDF documents are not encrypted or password-protected.
- Highlight any relevant experience in federal law, ethics, or procurement if applicable.
- Even though this is a public notice, highlight veteran status in your materials if applicable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can recent law school graduates apply?
Yes, recent graduates are encouraged to apply. They may be initially appointed as a Law Clerk and converted to a General Attorney position upon successful admission to the bar.
Is a security clearance required?
A security clearance is not required, but all candidates must pass a background investigation, which may include financial and credit checks.
Does the agency pay for relocation?
No, permanent change of duty station (PCS) expenses will not be paid.
Job from Office Of The Secretary
The Office of the Secretary serves as the management hub for the Department of Commerce, advising the Secretary and ensuring that the Department's bureaus operate efficiently. The OGC is the legal backbone of the department, providing expert counsel on a vast array of topics, from employment litigation and ethics to procurement and environmental law.