Launch Your Legal Career with the Department of Health and Human Services
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is seeking a talented and motivated General Attorney to join the Departmental Appeals Board (DAB). This is a unique opportunity to apply your legal expertise to some of the most critical health and human services programs in the United States. Whether you are at the beginning of your legal career or an experienced practitioner, the DAB offers a dynamic environment where your work directly supports the agency's mission.
Job Responsibilities
As a General Attorney, you will work closely with administrative law judges, board members, and agency directors. Key responsibilities include:
- Legal Advisory: Providing authoritative guidance on complex substantive and procedural legal issues.
- Case Resolution: Reviewing case files, identifying legal issues, and drafting decisions or orders.
- Litigation Support: Scheduling and participating in evidentiary hearings and oral arguments.
- Representation: Serving as a primary point of contact for parties involved in active cases.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Possession of a J.D. or LL.B from an ABA-accredited school.
- Active bar membership in good standing.
- Ability to provide transcripts and verification of licensure.
- A professional resume of no more than two pages.
Grade Level Requirements
| Grade Level | Education Required | Professional Legal Experience |
|---|---|---|
| GS-9 | J.D. or LL.B | None Required |
| GS-11 | J.D. or LL.B | None Required |
| GS-12 | J.D. or LL.B | 1 Year Post-Bar |
| GS-13 | J.D. or LL.B | 2 Years Post-Bar |
Salary and Benefits
The salary range for this position is $70,623 to $158,322 per year. In addition to a competitive salary, employees enjoy the comprehensive benefits package afforded to federal employees, including:
- Health, vision, and dental insurance.
- Flexible spending accounts.
- Federal retirement plans (FERS/TSP).
- Paid holidays and leave.
Application Tips
- Use the Resume Builder: This ensures you include the specific data points HR requires.
- Be Specific: Include dates of employment (MM/YY) and hours worked per week.
- Quality Over Quantity: While you have two pages, ensure every word counts towards showing your suitability for the role.
This role with the HHS Departmental Appeals Board is an excellent pathway for attorneys seeking a challenging and meaningful career in public service. With its broad scope and commitment to health advocacy, it remains a premier destination for legal talent.
Why This General Attorney Job Matters
Launch a high-impact legal career at the heart of public health by serving as a General Attorney with the Department of Health and Human Services.
General Attorney Job Overview
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) invites qualified legal professionals to apply for the position of General Attorney within the Departmental Appeals Board (DAB). Based in Washington, D.C., this role offers the opportunity to contribute to the resolution of complex legal disputes, administrative appeals, and regulatory matters that directly impact the nation’s health and human services programs.
Requirements for General Attorney
- Juris Doctorate (J.D.) or Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) from an ABA-accredited law school.
- Current active bar membership in good standing in any state, territory, or the District of Columbia.
- Ability to maintain an active bar license as a continuous condition of employment.
- Submission of a resume not exceeding two pages in length.
- Must be able to pass a suitability and security background investigation.
- U.S. citizenship is required.
Preferred Qualifications for General Attorney
- Demonstrated experience in administrative law, litigation, or appellate practice.
- Strong legal research, writing, and analytical skills.
- Experience in dispute resolution, mediation, or arbitration.
- Ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders including judges and agency directors.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs.
- ✓Defined benefit retirement plan (FERS) and Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style).
- ✓Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- ✓Flexible work options including telework eligibility.
- ✓Potential for student loan repayment programs.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
💡 How to Apply General Attorney Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for General Attorney Job
- Visit the DAB Career page and USAJOBS to review full position details.
- Prepare a federal resume that highlights specific legal experience, including dates and hours worked per week.
- Ensure your resume is no longer than two pages.
- Gather necessary documentation, including bar membership verification and academic transcripts.
- Complete the online questionnaire via the USA Staffing link.
- Submit your application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all federal requirements are met.
- Be explicit about your experience—the agency will not make assumptions.
- Clearly document your dates of employment in MM/YY format.
- Highlight specific legal accomplishments rather than just listing duties.
- Proofread your application to ensure all required supporting documents are attached.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote position?
No, this position is based in Washington, D.C. While the role is telework-eligible, it is not a fully remote position.
Does veterans' preference apply to this position?
No. This vacancy is being filled through OPM's Direct Hire Authority, meaning traditional rating and ranking, including veterans' preference, do not apply.
What is the page limit for the resume?
Resumes submitted for this position must not exceed two pages in length.
Job from Office Of The Secretary Of Health And Human Services
The Departmental Appeals Board (DAB) serves as an independent office within the Office of the Secretary of HHS. The DAB is responsible for providing review, adjudication, mediation, and arbitration services for a wide variety of appeals and disputes. By ensuring the fair and efficient administration of programs, the DAB plays a vital role in the oversight of HHS activities.