Launch Your Federal Legal Career: General Attorney at U.S. Customs and Border Protection
Are you looking to transition your legal expertise into a role that directly serves the nation? The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is currently seeking passionate, detail-oriented legal professionals to join the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Office of Chief Counsel. This is a unique opportunity to engage with high-stakes legal issues that protect national security and ensure the integrity of our borders.
Position Responsibilities
As a General Attorney, you will work across a diverse portfolio. Key duties include:
- Providing legal guidance for ports of entry operations.
- Conducting legal research on admissibility, forced labor enforcement, and national security matters.
- Representing the agency in administrative hearings (EEOC, MSPB, FLRA).
- Supporting the Department of Justice in civil and criminal litigation.
- Developing and delivering legal training to agency personnel.
Requirements
To be considered, candidates must meet specific criteria:
- Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
- Education: Completion of a full course of study from an ABA-accredited law school.
- Bar Admission: Active member in good standing of any state or U.S. territory bar.
- Residency: Compliance with the three-of-five-year U.S. residency rule.
Salary and Grade Comparison
| Level | Salary Range |
|---|---|
| GS-11 (Starting) | $63,795 |
| GS-14 (Full Performance) | $139,684 |
Benefits
Federal employment offers an exceptional total compensation package, including robust retirement plans via the Thrift Savings Plan, comprehensive health insurance options, and generous paid time off.
Application Tips
Ensure your application package is complete. Omissions—such as forgetting the required cover letter or exceeding the page limit on your resume—will disqualify your application. Use PDF files for all attachments and submit via email as instructed.
Working for the Office of Chief Counsel is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the core values of vigilance, service, and integrity. If you are prepared to support the Department of Homeland Security in a fast-paced, intellectually demanding environment, submit your application by the August 14, 2026, deadline.
Why This General Attorney Job Matters
Shape the future of national security as a General Attorney with U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Join an elite legal team at the forefront of trade enforcement, immigration, and border integrity.
General Attorney Job Overview
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), specifically U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), is seeking qualified legal professionals to serve in the Office of Chief Counsel. With openings in San Francisco, CA, and Denver, CO, this role involves managing complex legal matters across the CBP portfolio, including trade law, search and seizure regulations, immigration policy, and employment litigation. You will act as a primary legal advisor, ensuring agency compliance and supporting Department of Justice proceedings.
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 U.S. state, territory, or District of Columbia bar.
- Must pass a rigorous federal background investigation.
- Must meet U.S. residency requirements (physically resided in the U.S. for at least 3 of the last 5 years).
- Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
- Recent law school graduates must obtain bar admission within 14 months of appointment.
Preferred Qualifications for General Attorney
- Rank in the top 1/3 of graduating law school class.
- Participation on an official Law Review publication.
- Proven experience in moot court competitions.
- Demonstrated ability to perform high-level legal research and writing.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal Salary
- ✓Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style retirement)
- ✓Paid Federal Holidays and Personal Leave
- ✓Flexible Spending Accounts
- ✓Tuition Reimbursement and Professional Training
- ✓Employee Assistance Program
- ✓Fitness Center access and health/wellness programs
💡 How to Apply General Attorney Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for General Attorney Job
- Prepare a resume (max 2 pages) detailing your work history, grade levels, and duties.
- Draft a cover letter (max 2 pages) outlining your interest in the position.
- Obtain transcripts from your ABA-accredited law school.
- Create a legal writing sample (max 5 pages).
- Email all documents to [email protected] with the vacancy number in the subject line.
💡 General Tips
- Submit your resume in PDF format to maintain document formatting and quality.
- Ensure your resume includes your full legal name, phone number, and relevant salary history.
- Do not password-protect your documents, as this prevents review.
- Highlight specific experience related to trade, immigration, or labor law in your cover letter.
- Double-check that your application materials are in English.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the full performance level of this position?
The position has a career ladder starting at GS-11 and progressing to a full performance level of GS-14.
Can I apply via USAJobs?
No. All applications must be submitted directly via email to the address specified in the 'How to Apply' section of the announcement.
Job from Customs And Border Protection
The U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the nation's premier border enforcement agency. The Office of Chief Counsel (OCC) supports this mission by providing essential legal advice and representation. From trade enforcement and customs duties to immigration law and labor relations, OCC attorneys are at the center of the agency's most complex challenges.