Launch Your Legal Career at the FCC: Attorney Advisor (Media Bureau)
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is a cornerstone of American regulatory infrastructure, tasked with managing the airwaves and telecommunications that keep the nation connected. We are currently seeking highly motivated, detail-oriented legal experts to join the Media Bureau as Attorney Advisors. This role is a unique opportunity to shape the future of radio, television, and digital broadcast regulation.
Job Responsibilities
As an Attorney Advisor in the Media Bureau, your responsibilities will involve a mix of policy development and legal compliance enforcement. Key duties include:
- Drafting agenda items, briefing papers, and reports.
- Analyzing complex transfer and assignment applications.
- Ensuring broadcaster compliance with license renewal requirements.
- Coordinating with the Office of General Counsel and other internal offices to address novel legal questions.
- Conducting legal research and producing high-level policy recommendations.
Requirements
Success in this role requires a candidate who can balance high-level policy objectives with rigorous legal analysis. Candidates must meet the following criteria:
- A Juris Doctor (JD) or equivalent law degree.
- Active bar membership (required upon selection).
- Demonstrated professional legal experience: GS-13 level requires at least two years; GS-14 requires at least three.
- Ability to work under strict deadlines and adhere to the two-page resume limitation.
| Level | Experience Requirement | Key Focus |
|---|---|---|
| GS-13 | 2+ Years Professional Experience | Research & Drafting |
| GS-14 | 3+ Years Professional Experience | Policy Interpretation & Representation |
Salary Overview
The compensation for this position ranges from $121,785 to $187,093 annually, depending on experience, grade level, and qualification.
Benefits
Working for the FCC offers more than just a competitive salary. We provide a robust benefits package that supports both professional development and personal well-being, including health insurance, comprehensive retirement plans, generous leave, and the flexibility to telecommute.
Application Tips
- Format Matters: The two-page resume rule is strictly enforced. Ensure every word adds value.
- Customization: Align your work experience descriptions specifically with the duties outlined in this announcement.
- Essay Preparation: Give yourself time to draft the four optional essays. They are your opportunity to showcase your commitment to the Constitution and government efficiency.
If you are ready to contribute your legal expertise to a mission-driven agency, we invite you to apply. The FCC is an equal opportunity employer and values diverse perspectives in shaping the communications landscape of the future.
Why This Attorney Advisor (General) Job Matters
Shape the future of American communications policy as an Attorney Advisor at the Federal Communications Commission. Join the Media Bureau and make a tangible impact on the regulations that define our national connectivity.
Attorney Advisor (General) Job Overview
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is currently seeking experienced legal professionals to join the Audio or Video Division of its Media Bureau in Washington, D.C. As an Attorney Advisor, you will play a critical role in the regulatory processes governing radio, television, and cable communications. This is a high-impact position where you will tackle complex legal issues of first impression, draft vital policy documents, and ensure compliance with federal communications law. We are looking for candidates committed to public service, the rule of law, and the efficiency of federal governance.
Requirements for Attorney Advisor (General)
- Possession of a professional law degree (JD, LL.B., or LL.M.).
- Active bar membership (documentation required upon selection).
- U.S. Citizenship.
- For GS-13: Minimum two years of professional law experience, including one year at the GS-12 equivalent.
- For GS-14: Minimum three years of professional law experience, including one year at the GS-13 equivalent.
- Submission of a resume that does not exceed the two-page limit.
- Successful completion of a background investigation.
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after December 31, 1959.
- Current federal employees must submit an SF-50 documenting time-in-grade.
Preferred Qualifications for Attorney Advisor (General)
- Demonstrated expertise in conducting in-depth legal research regarding the media industry.
- Proven ability to translate complex fact patterns into clear legal memoranda.
- Experience drafting notices of proposed rulemaking, orders, and public notices.
- Strong oral communication skills for policy advocacy and inter-agency coordination.
- Ability to analyze ownership waivers and compliance within license renewal processes.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
- ✓Life Insurance and Long-Term Care options
- ✓Participation in the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) and federal retirement programs
- ✓Flexible Spending Accounts
- ✓Generous holiday and leave schedule
- ✓Transit benefits program
- ✓Alternative work schedules and telecommuting opportunities
💡 How to Apply Attorney Advisor (General) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Attorney Advisor (General) Job
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages, detailing your specific legal experience.
- Review and prepare the optional four essay questions (200 words max each).
- Gather supporting documents: Bar membership, law transcripts, and an SF-50 if currently in federal service.
- Apply through the official FCC portal before the August 11, 2026, deadline.
- Complete the required financial disclosure forms if selected.
- Monitor your status through the online application dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit and explicitly matches the specialized experience requirements mentioned in the announcement.
- Use your own words for the optional essay questions; the use of AI tools is discouraged and you must certify your work.
- Check your SF-50 for accuracy before submitting; failing to include it as a current federal employee will result in an ineligible rating.
- Highlight experience with media law specifically, as this is a core component of the Media Bureau's mission.
- Apply early to avoid technical issues as the closing time is absolute (Midnight Eastern Time).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is relocation assistance provided for this position?
No, relocation expenses are not paid for this vacancy.
Can I use AI to help draft my essay responses?
No. Applicants must certify that they used their own words and did not use consultants or artificial intelligence (LLMs) to generate their responses.
What happens if my resume exceeds two pages?
In accordance with federal hiring reform, resumes longer than two pages will be rated as ineligible and will not be considered.
Are there specific resume formatting requirements?
Yes, your resume must include specific contact information, job titles, employer names, series/grade for federal roles, and start/end dates in a month/year format.
What is the trial period?
New hires to the FCC may be required to serve a one-year probationary period.
Are there citizenship requirements?
Yes, this position requires U.S. Citizenship.
Job from Federal Communications Commission
The FCC, established by the Communications Act of 1934, is an independent federal agency overseen by Congress. Its jurisdiction spans the 50 states, the District of Columbia, and U.S. territories. The agency focuses on regulating interstate and international communications through various technologies, including wire, satellite, cable, and broadcast media. Our culture is built on the pursuit of fairness, public service, and the rule of law.