Launch Your Career as a Field Attorney with the NLRB
The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) serves as the guardian of labor-management relations in the private sector. If you are an attorney with a passion for public service and a background in labor law, this position offers an unparalleled opportunity to influence the lives of working Americans while developing a world-class legal career within the federal government.
Job Responsibilities
As a Field Attorney (GS-12), you will be the backbone of the agency's regional operations. Your duties will include:
- Investigation: Analyzing unfair labor practice charges and determining the merit of legal claims.
- Litigation: Representing the agency before Administrative Law Judges and in federal court.
- Counseling: Providing guidance to regional leadership on case strategy and legal recommendations.
Work Environment Comparison
| Feature | Field Attorney Role |
|---|---|
| Scope | Nationwide impact |
| Work Type | Litigation & Investigation |
| Stability | Federal Career Appointment |
| Flexibility | Telework & Flex Schedule |
Requirements
To be considered, candidates must be an active member in good standing of the Bar and possess a J.D. from an ABA-accredited school. You must also demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience at the GS-11 level or equivalent.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $90,823 to $134,195. Beyond the paycheck, you will enjoy a comprehensive federal benefits package, including retirement planning through the Thrift Savings Plan, full health insurance coverage options, and robust work-life balance programs like transit subsidies and childcare assistance.
Application Tips
- Watch the Length: Federal hiring now emphasizes a strict two-page resume limit. Edit your experience to be concise and impactful.
- Verify Documents: Ensure your Bar license is current and includes your unique Bar number.
- Use the Questionnaire: Answer the assessment questions thoughtfully; they are crucial to your final score.
Serving as a Field Attorney at the NLRB is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the principles of fair labor. If you meet the criteria and are ready for a challenging and rewarding legal career, we encourage you to submit your application package before the closing date.
Why This General Attorney Labor (Field Attorney) Job Matters
Shape the future of labor relations and defend worker rights as a Field Attorney with the National Labor Relations Board.
General Attorney Labor (Field Attorney) Job Overview
The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) is seeking talented legal professionals to serve as Field Attorneys. In this role, you will work at the front lines of labor law, investigating unfair labor practice charges, litigating cases before Administrative Law Judges, and navigating the complexities of the National Labor Relations Act to ensure fair practices in the private sector.
Requirements for General Attorney Labor (Field Attorney)
- U.S. Citizenship
- Juris Doctorate (J.D.) or LL.B. from an ABA-accredited law school
- Active member in good standing of a U.S. State, Territory, or D.C. Bar
- One year of specialized legal experience equivalent to the GS-11 grade level
- Ability to pass a high-risk background investigation
- Compliance with the two-page maximum resume length requirement
Preferred Qualifications for General Attorney Labor (Field Attorney)
- Experience with the National Labor Relations Act or similar labor and employment statutes
- Strong proficiency in legal research, analytical writing, and trial litigation
- Demonstrated ability to effectively communicate complex legal issues to diverse stakeholders
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Program
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style retirement)
- ✓Flexible work schedules and telework options
- ✓Life and Long-Term Care Insurance
- ✓Child Care Subsidy Program
- ✓Transit Benefit Program
- ✓Employee Assistance Program
💡 How to Apply General Attorney Labor (Field Attorney) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for General Attorney Labor (Field Attorney) Job
- Create or log into a USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a two-page resume following specific federal formatting guidelines.
- Submit your unofficial law school transcripts and proof of active Bar membership.
- Provide a legal writing sample (maximum 10 pages).
- Complete the online assessment and optional essay questions.
- Verify all documents are correctly uploaded before the deadline.
💡 General Tips
- Strictly adhere to the two-page resume limit; non-compliant resumes will be disqualified.
- Ensure your resume explicitly details your relevant work hours and specific legal experience.
- Double-check that your Bar license document includes your Bar number and explicitly states 'good standing'.
- Tailor your writing sample to demonstrate your analytical skills rather than just case outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Rule of Many?
The NLRB utilizes the Rule of Many for hiring, which allows for selection from a broader, top-ranked pool of qualified candidates rather than strictly the top three.
Are writing samples mandatory?
Yes, applicants must submit a legal document of their choice, which must be their own original work and not edited by others.
Job from National Labor Relations Board
Established in 1935, the NLRB is an independent federal agency tasked with enforcing the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA). Our mission is to protect the rights of employees to organize and bargain collectively. By resolving disputes and preventing unfair labor practices, the NLRB promotes stability in the American economy.