Become an Attorney Advisor (Contracts) with the Department of Justice
Are you a dedicated legal professional with a passion for federal procurement? The Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR), a component of the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), is currently accepting applications for an Attorney Advisor (Contracts) based in Falls Church, Virginia. This role offers an exceptional opportunity to serve the public interest while navigating the intricate world of federal acquisition and contract law.
Job Responsibilities
As an Attorney Advisor, you will serve as a primary legal resource for agency personnel. Your responsibilities include:
- Providing counsel on the full acquisition lifecycle (planning, award, and closeout).
- Representing the agency in bid protests before the GAO or Court of Federal Claims.
- Drafting and reviewing complex legal policies and regulations.
- Advising Program Managers on federal procurement compliance.
Comparison Table: GS-13 vs GS-14 Expectations
| Feature | GS-13 Level | GS-14 Level |
|---|---|---|
| Required Experience | 2 Years | 3 Years |
| Focus | Legal analysis and drafting | Strategic initiative and policy advice |
| Impact | Support administrative adjudicators | Agency-wide rulemaking and operations |
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must:
- Hold a valid J.D. or LL.B. degree.
- Be an active, licensed member of a state or D.C. bar.
- Demonstrate specialized experience in contract law or federal procurement.
- Undergo a High Risk (HR) security clearance process.
Salary Overview
This position is compensated within the following range: $121,785 – $187,093 per year, depending on qualifications and experience.
Benefits
Working for the federal government provides robust benefits, including:
- Comprehensive health and life insurance.
- A secure retirement path via FERS and the Thrift Savings Plan.
- Flexible leave accrual policies.
Application Tips
Ensure your resume is comprehensive. Include every relevant position with clear dates (MM/YYYY) and, for federal roles, the specific grade level held. If your resume does not clearly document your experience, the hiring team cannot make assumptions in your favor.
This role is a unique chance to shape the procurement operations of a critical DOJ agency. If you meet the criteria and are ready to advance your career, ensure your application is submitted via the USAJOBS portal by August 5, 2026.
Why This Attorney Advisor (Contracts) Job Matters
Advance your legal career with the Department of Justice by providing critical counsel on complex federal procurement and acquisition matters within the Executive Office for Immigration Review.
Attorney Advisor (Contracts) Job Overview
The Office of the General Counsel (OGC) at the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) is seeking a skilled Attorney Advisor to join its team in Falls Church, Virginia. This role focuses on the full federal acquisition lifecycle, providing expert legal advice to Contracting Officers and Program Managers, and representing the agency in complex contract-related litigation. This is a high-impact role at the intersection of federal law, policy, and immigration administration.
Requirements for Attorney Advisor (Contracts)
- Possess an LL.B. or J.D. degree from an accredited institution.
- Maintain active status as a licensed attorney in any U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a High Risk (HR) security clearance.
- Must be a U.S. citizen or national.
- Must satisfy the federal residency requirement (3 out of the last 5 years in the U.S. or overseas in a federal/military capacity).
- Must pass a mandatory drug screening.
Preferred Qualifications for Attorney Advisor (Contracts)
- Extensive experience in the full federal acquisition lifecycle, including planning, solicitation, and award.
- Proven history of managing bid protests before the GAO or the Court of Federal Claims.
- Strong background in analyzing complex legal regulations and drafting policy directives.
- Exceptional negotiation skills and the ability to provide counsel to high-level agency stakeholders.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching contributions.
- ✓Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and career advancement within the DOJ.
💡 How to Apply Attorney Advisor (Contracts) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Attorney Advisor (Contracts) Job
- Create or log in to your account on the USAJOBS portal.
- Prepare a detailed resume including specific dates, salary grades, and hours worked.
- Complete the required online Assessment Questionnaire.
- Upload all necessary supporting documents, including bar membership verification and veterans' preference documents (if applicable).
- Submit your final package by the closing date of August 5, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Be explicit in your resume; do not leave the hiring team to make assumptions about your experience levels.
- Clearly list all federal grade levels and percentages of time spent in past part-time positions.
- Ensure your contact information is current and your resume is formatted to highlight specific achievements related to contract law.
- Verify that your application status shows as 'Received' or 'Referred' after submission.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is veterans' preference applied to this position?
Yes, while there is no formal point system for attorney appointments in the excepted service, the DOJ considers veterans' preference as a positive factor in the hiring process.
Can I work remotely or telework in this role?
No, this position is currently designated as ineligible for telework or remote work.
Job from Executive Office For Immigration Review
The Executive Office for Immigration Review is responsible for adjudicating immigration cases across the United States. To fulfill its mission, the Office of the General Counsel (OGC) provides legal guidance on a vast array of issues, including labor relations, FOIA compliance, ethics, and procurement. Joining the OGC means becoming a vital part of an organization that ensures the fair and uniform application of immigration laws.