Navigating the Future of the Judiciary: The Deputy Legislative Affairs Officer Role
The Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts (AO) is a pivotal institution in the American legal landscape, ensuring that the federal court system operates with efficiency and integrity. We are currently searching for an exceptional legal professional to join the Office of Legislative Affairs (OLA) as a Deputy Legislative Affairs Officer. This is a high-impact position for a seasoned attorney who thrives on complex policy challenges and strategic communication at the executive level.
Job Responsibilities
As the Deputy Legislative Affairs Officer, you will serve as the right hand to the Legislative Affairs Officer. Your core responsibilities include:
- Advising on legislative strategies and policy development.
- Representing the judiciary in interactions with Hill staff and other government agencies.
- Overseeing the activities of Judicial Conference Committees.
- Mentoring and leading a team of legal and support professionals.
- Developing testimony and responses to inquiries from legislative and executive entities.
Comparison of Qualifications
| Requirement | Essential | Preferred |
|---|---|---|
| Bar Admission | Active/Good Standing | Not applicable |
| Specialized Experience | 1+ Year (GS-15 level) | 5+ Years |
| Legislative Expertise | Required | Federal Branch Experience |
| Leadership | Proven Management | Experience with Judges/Execs |
Requirements
Success in this role requires more than just a law degree. We are seeking individuals who possess a deep understanding of the political process and the ability to solve sensitive institutional problems. You must be an active member of the bar and demonstrate extensive experience navigating the legislative branch.
Salary Overview
This position is classified under the AO Executive Service (AOES) with a salary range of $204,169 to $226,854 per year. Compensation is determined commensurate with the candidate's executive-level experience and qualifications.
Benefits
Working for the judicial branch offers a robust federal benefits package, including health insurance, retirement planning, and a commitment to a professional, mission-driven work-life balance.
Application Tips
- Be thorough: Omissions or incorrect information can lead to disqualification.
- Be specific: Ensure your narratives for the ECQs and MTQs provide concrete examples of your leadership successes.
- Be prompt: Do not wait until the August 2027 closing date to start your application, as the process requires significant documentation.
If you are an attorney with a passion for public service and legislative strategy, we invite you to apply for this career-defining role. Your contribution will directly support the mission of the third branch of government: providing equal justice under law.
Why This Deputy Legislative Affairs Officer Job Matters
Shape the future of the federal judiciary. The Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts is seeking a strategic, high-level leader to navigate the complexities of legislative affairs at the intersection of law and governance.
Deputy Legislative Affairs Officer Job Overview
The Office of Legislative Affairs (OLA) is looking for a Deputy Legislative Affairs Officer to serve as a key advisor to the Legislative Affairs Officer and the Director of the Administrative Office (AO). This executive role is instrumental in managing legislative liaison activities, developing judicial policy positions, and maintaining critical communication channels between the judiciary, Congress, and other federal entities.
Requirements for Deputy Legislative Affairs Officer
- Active member in good standing of a bar of a state, territory, District of Columbia, or federal court.
- Law degree (J.D.) from an ABA-accredited law school.
- At least four years of post-J.D. legal experience.
- Minimum of one year (52 weeks) of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-15/JSP-15/CL 31 level.
- Demonstrated expertise in federal legislative and congressional processes.
- Ability to pass an FBI fingerprint-based background check and public trust suitability review.
- Submission of a mandatory one-page narrative addressing the Mandatory Technical Qualification (MTQ).
- Submission of two-page narratives for each of the five Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs) (unless currently serving in an AOES/SES capacity).
Preferred Qualifications for Deputy Legislative Affairs Officer
- Five or more years of specialized experience in a legislative or legal setting.
- Professional experience staffing judicial or legislative committees.
- Experience working directly with federal judges, legislators, or executive-level officials.
- Expertise in composing and reviewing congressional testimony, legislative documents, and high-level policy reports.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary commensurate with executive experience.
- ✓Comprehensive federal benefits package.
- ✓Opportunities for professional growth within the judicial branch.
- ✓Telework eligibility.
💡 How to Apply Deputy Legislative Affairs Officer Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Deputy Legislative Affairs Officer Job
- Log in or create an account on USAJOBS.
- Prepare a resume that includes your country of citizenship and specific J.D./bar membership details.
- Draft the required MTQ and ECQ narratives according to the specific page limits provided.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire via the provided link.
- Upload all required supporting documentation, including SF-50s if applicable.
- Submit your final package before the August 12, 2027, deadline.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly lists the institution, state, and dates for your J.D. and bar admission.
- Double-check that your narrative responses are concise and stay within the page limits specified in the announcement.
- Clearly link your experience in your resume to the specific specialized experience definitions provided.
- Verify your eligibility for Veterans Preference if you intend to claim it and attach the necessary documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of the Deputy Legislative Affairs Officer?
The Deputy acts as the primary advisor to the Legislative Affairs Officer, managing legislative liaison activities, overseeing committee support, and advising on policy positions that impact the federal judiciary.
Are the Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs) mandatory for everyone?
Yes, unless you are currently serving in an AOES or SES position, or have successfully completed an OPM-approved SES Candidate Development Program, you must submit a narrative response for each of the five ECQs.
Is there an age limit for this position?
No, the position is based on professional merit, qualifications, and experience.
Is this role eligible for remote work?
The position is listed as telework-eligible, though candidates should expect to be active in the Washington, D.C. area.
Job from Administrative Office Of The U.S. Courts
The Administrative Office serves the federal judiciary by providing essential support services, from technological infrastructure to legislative counsel. As a member of the OLA, you will stand at the forefront of the judiciary’s engagement with Congress, ensuring that the needs and policies of the federal courts are clearly understood and protected.