Advance Your Legal Career: Chief Counsel at the DOT Volpe Center
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) is currently seeking a highly skilled and strategic leader to serve as a Supervisory Attorney Advisor (General) for the Volpe National Transportation Systems Center in Cambridge, Massachusetts. This position offers an unparalleled opportunity to shape the legal landscape of a world-renowned research organization.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, your daily work will be varied and high-impact. Key duties include:
- Providing comprehensive legal opinions for Center programs and administration.
- Managing the Office of Chief Counsel, including direct supervision of legal staff.
- Representing the Center in administrative tribunals, alternative dispute resolution, and court proceedings.
- Coordinating with internal and external stakeholders to foster strong institutional relationships.
- Ensuring compliance with acquisition, appropriations, and employment laws.
Comparison Table: Candidate Requirements
| Requirement | Standard |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | U.S. Citizen |
| Education | ABA-accredited Law Degree (J.D.) |
| License | Active Member in Good Standing (Bar) |
| Experience | Specialized GS-14 level equivalent |
Requirements
To qualify for this GS-15 position, candidates must possess extensive experience in federal legal environments. Beyond technical legal proficiency, the DOT seeks leaders who can manage logistics, financial planning, and organizational culture. You must provide transcripts and proof of bar membership as part of your application.
Salary Overview
This position is compensated at a rate of $167,560 to $197,200 annually, commensurate with experience and federal pay regulations.
Benefits
Federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package, including:
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Participation in the Thrift Savings Plan
- Defined benefit retirement plan
- Generous leave accrual policy
Application Tips
- Focus on the 2-page limit: Ensure your resume is concise and targeted.
- Verify your documents: Double-check that your bar certification and transcripts are attached correctly.
- Address competencies: Use the KSA requirements provided in the announcement to tailor your narrative.
If you are an experienced attorney ready to lead legal initiatives at the highest level of federal government, this position at the Volpe Center is your next logical step. Apply today to contribute your expertise to a vital mission.
Why This Supervisory Attorney Advisor (General) Job Matters
Lead the legal operations of the U.S. Department of Transportation's prestigious Volpe Center as its next Chief Counsel.
Supervisory Attorney Advisor (General) Job Overview
The Department of Transportation is seeking an accomplished legal leader to serve as the Supervisory Attorney Advisor and Chief Counsel for the Volpe Center in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Reporting directly to the Center's Director, the selected candidate will provide high-level legal guidance and strategic oversight, managing a team of attorneys to ensure regulatory compliance and operational excellence across the agency.
Requirements for Supervisory Attorney Advisor (General)
- U.S. Citizenship
- Law Degree (J.D. or equivalent) from an ABA-accredited law school
- Active, good standing membership in the bar of any U.S. State, Territory, or District of Columbia
- Specialized experience equivalent to the GS-14 grade level
- Ability to obtain and maintain required security clearances
- Registration for Selective Service (for males born after 12/31/59)
- Completion of a two-year trial period
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Attorney Advisor (General)
- Expertise in acquisition, appropriations, and employee ethics laws
- Proven experience in federal employment law and intellectual property
- Demonstrated ability to build professional coalitions and influence organizational strategy
- Experience representing an agency before administrative tribunals or federal courts
- Successful history of supervising and mentoring a team of attorneys
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs
- ✓Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent)
- ✓Paid federal holidays, annual leave, and sick leave
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training
- ✓Flexible work arrangements including telework options
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Attorney Advisor (General) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Attorney Advisor (General) Job
- Create or update your profile on the official federal hiring portal.
- Draft a concise, maximum two-page resume highlighting relevant legal experience and grade levels.
- Prepare your bar membership documentation and academic transcripts.
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire linked to the vacancy.
- Submit your entire application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit to avoid disqualification.
- Clearly define your responsibilities and the depth of your experience, as assumptions regarding your history will not be made.
- Detail your experience with specific federal series and grades if applicable.
- Submit all documents well in advance of the deadline to account for potential technical issues.
- Review your application status periodically through your account dashboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of the Chief Counsel at the Volpe Center?
The Chief Counsel directs the Office of Legal Services, providing legal opinions, managing staff attorney assignments, and representing the Center in complex proceedings.
Is this a competitive service position?
No, this is an excepted service position within the Department of Transportation.
What are the physical location requirements?
The position is based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, with potential for telework eligibility.
Is relocation assistance provided?
Yes, relocation incentives may be available for qualified candidates.
Is a security clearance required?
Yes, the position requires a high-risk security clearance/background investigation.
Job from Office Of The Secretary Of Transportation
The Volpe Center is a premier federal organization that provides world-class transportation expertise and innovation. As a part of the DOT, it supports the nation's critical transportation infrastructure through advanced research and policy support. Working as Chief Counsel, you will be at the heart of the Center's operational strategy, ensuring that all legal and administrative activities align with federal mandates.