Launch Your Legal Career with U.S. Customs and Border Protection
Are you a dedicated attorney looking to serve your country? The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Office of Chief Counsel is currently hiring General Attorneys to join our team in Long Beach, CA, and Las Vegas, NV. This is an exceptional opportunity to work on complex legal issues that shape our nation's borders, trade, and national security.
Job Responsibilities
As a General Attorney, your work will be diverse and intellectually stimulating. You will provide critical legal advice and representation regarding:
- Port of Entry Operations: Advising on passenger, cargo, and airmail environments.
- Trade Enforcement: Handling duties, fees, and forced labor enforcement issues.
- Administrative Litigation: Representing the agency before the Merit Systems Protection Board and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.
- Federal Court Support: Providing litigation support to the Department of Justice in civil and criminal matters.
Salary and Career Growth
This position offers a competitive federal salary structure.
| Grade Level | Salary Range |
|---|---|
| GS-11 to GS-14 | $74,678 - $163,514 |
Requirements
To be considered, you must be a U.S. Citizen, hold a law degree from an ABA-accredited institution, and be an active, good-standing member of the bar. Please note that background investigations are mandatory.
This position is more than just a job; it is a chance to provide meaningful service to the United States. If you possess the legal expertise and the drive to protect our nation, we encourage you to review the requirements and submit your application before the July 14, 2026, deadline.
Why This General Attorney Job Matters
Protect the nation's borders while advancing your legal career. Join the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Office of Chief Counsel and influence critical national security, trade, and immigration policies.
General Attorney Job Overview
The Office of Chief Counsel within U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is seeking motivated General Attorneys to serve in Long Beach, California, and Las Vegas, Nevada. As part of one of the federal government's most significant legal offices, you will handle diverse responsibilities, including trade enforcement, immigration law, labor relations, and litigation support. This role offers the unique opportunity to provide high-level counsel that directly impacts the security and efficiency of our nation's borders.
Requirements for General Attorney
- U.S. Citizenship is strictly 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 pass a rigorous federal background investigation.
- Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
- Compliance with residency requirements (physically resided in the U.S. for at least three of the last five years).
- Commitment to federal ethics rules, including restrictions on outside employment.
Preferred Qualifications for General Attorney
- Rank in the top one-third of graduating law school class.
- Participation on an official Law Review.
- Demonstrated success in moot court competitions or membership on a competitive moot court team.
- Experience in labor and employment law or administrative litigation.
- Strong background in federal legal research and technical writing.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
- ✓Federal retirement benefits and Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent).
- ✓Paid federal holidays and personal leave.
- ✓Flexible work schedule options.
- ✓Tuition reimbursement programs.
- ✓Transportation subsidies and wellness initiatives.
💡 How to Apply General Attorney Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for General Attorney Job
- Prepare your resume (maximum two pages, PDF format recommended).
- Draft a cover letter (maximum two pages).
- Acquire your law school transcripts.
- Prepare a writing sample (maximum five pages).
- Email all documents as a single package to the designated address by the closing date.
- Ensure the email subject line references vacancy number CC/26-51.
💡 General Tips
- Submit your resume as a PDF to ensure formatting consistency.
- Ensure your resume details hours worked per week and specific dates of employment.
- Do not exceed the two-page limit for your resume or cover letter.
- Clearly highlight your bar membership status.
- Review your application package twice to ensure all required documents are attached before emailing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the full performance level of this position?
The full performance level for a General Attorney in this office is GS-14.
Is a security clearance required?
While this specific announcement notes a background investigation is required for employment, you do not need an existing clearance to apply.
Can I submit my application via USAJobs?
No, you must submit your application package directly via the email address provided in the job announcement.
Job from Customs And Border Protection
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and its component, CBP, are dedicated to protecting American interests. From securing trade and travel to preventing terrorism and enforcing immigration law, CBP operates at the forefront of national security. Joining the Office of Chief Counsel means joining a team of legal professionals committed to excellence, integrity, and service.