Launch Your Legal Career with U.S. Customs and Border Protection
If you are a legal professional with a passion for public service and national security, a career as a General Attorney with the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) offers an unparalleled path. Working under the Office of Chief Counsel (OCC), you will join one of the federal government's most essential legal teams.
About the Office of Chief Counsel
The OCC is a cornerstone of the Department of Homeland Security, responsible for providing high-level legal advice on complex issues that keep the nation secure. From trade enforcement and immigration to government ethics and land acquisition, the work performed by CBP attorneys is critical, challenging, and deeply impactful.
Job Responsibilities
As a Title Attorney within the OCC, your day-to-day will involve high-stakes legal work, including:
- Real Property Legal Guidance: Managing land acquisitions, reviewing titles, and drafting conveyancing instruments to support CBP operations.
- Litigation Support: Partnering with the Department of Justice on civil actions, including FOIA and FTCA cases, through eDiscovery and motion drafting.
- Legal Research: Applying federal laws and regulations across the agency's broad portfolio.
- Training & Policy: Developing training materials for CBP personnel on fiscal responsibility and federal land acquisition policies.
Comparison Table: Why Choose Federal Legal Practice?
| Feature | Private Practice | CBP Office of Chief Counsel |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Client Profitability | National Security/Public Interest |
| Compensation | Highly Variable | GS-12 to GS-14 Salary Scale |
| Benefits | Firm Dependent | Comprehensive Federal Benefits |
| Work-Life Balance | Variable (often demanding) | Defined Schedule/Leave Programs |
Requirements for Success
To be considered for this role, you must meet the following baseline requirements:
- Educational Credentials: An LL.B. or J.D. from an ABA-accredited law school.
- Bar Standing: Must be an active member in good standing of any state or territorial bar.
- Residency: Must have lived in the U.S. for at least three of the last five years.
- Professional Conduct: Ability to pass a federal background check and adhere to strict ethics standards.
Salary and Benefits
Selected candidates will be placed on the General Schedule (GS) pay scale, ranging from GS-12 to GS-14 ($89,508 – $162,514 per year). Beyond salary, the federal benefits package is substantial, covering health insurance, retirement planning via the Thrift Savings Plan, and life insurance. Additionally, recruitment incentives of up to $50,000 may be available for eligible new appointees.
Joining the CBP as a General Attorney is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the safety and prosperity of the United States. If you possess the legal acumen and the dedication required to uphold the integrity of our borders, we encourage you to apply.
Why This General Attorney - Recruitment Incentive Authorized Job Matters
Shape the future of national security law: U.S. Customs and Border Protection is seeking expert legal counsel to join our elite team of Title Attorneys.
General Attorney - Recruitment Incentive Authorized Job Overview
The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Office of Chief Counsel is currently seeking qualified candidates for General Attorney positions. As a legal professional within the Department of Homeland Security, you will provide critical guidance on trade enforcement, land acquisition, and federal litigation. These positions are open in multiple locations across the country, offering the opportunity to engage in high-impact legal work that directly supports the nation's security and border integrity.
Requirements for General Attorney - Recruitment Incentive Authorized
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Must be a graduate of an American Bar Association (ABA) accredited law school.
- Must be an active member in good standing of a state, territory, District of Columbia, or Puerto Rico bar.
- Must meet residency requirements (physically resided in the U.S. for at least three of the last five years).
- Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
- Ability to pass a thorough background investigation.
Preferred Qualifications for General Attorney - Recruitment Incentive Authorized
- Proven track record in real property law and title review.
- Experience in federal litigation, including eDiscovery and motion practice.
- Expertise in fiscal and appropriation laws.
- Strong legal research and writing abilities.
- Experience supporting federal agency operations or working within a government legal office.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Health, dental, vision, and life insurance
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style retirement)
- ✓Flexible spending accounts
- ✓Paid federal holidays and personal leave
- ✓Recruitment incentive up to $50,000 for new appointees
- ✓Relocation incentives for current CBP attorneys
- ✓Tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities
💡 How to Apply General Attorney - Recruitment Incentive Authorized Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for General Attorney - Recruitment Incentive Authorized Job
- Prepare your resume, cover letter (max two pages), law school transcript, and writing sample (max five pages).
- Include your SF-50 if applicable to demonstrate time-in-grade.
- Format all documents to ensure clarity; PDF is recommended for resumes.
- Email your complete application package to the dedicated CBP mailbox.
- Reference the job title and specific location(s) in the subject line of your email.
- Submit your application by the closing date of 12/12/2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes your full legal name, the announcement number, and a detailed breakdown of your work history including hours worked per week.
- Check your documents for any password protection, as these cannot be processed.
- Submit early to avoid technical issues as the deadline approaches.
- Clearly articulate your experience in title review and federal litigation to align with the specific job duties mentioned.
- Double-check that your email subject line exactly matches the instructions provided in the vacancy announcement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote position?
No, these are field positions located at specific sites across the United States. Telework may be available depending on the specific office policy, but it is not a remote-only position.
What is the recruitment incentive?
Newly appointed attorneys may be eligible for a recruitment incentive of up to $50,000, subject to a signed service agreement.
How do I apply for multiple locations?
You must indicate which location(s) you wish to apply for in the subject line of your email application.
What is the application deadline?
Applications are accepted through 12/12/2026.
How do I submit my documents?
Documents must be sent via email to the address specified in the job announcement. Fax and mail submissions are not accepted.
Are there promotion opportunities?
Yes, the position has a full performance level of GS-14, with potential for future career advancement.