Become the Counsel to the Inspector General at the Department of Labor
Are you a high-level legal professional looking to pivot into a role that defines federal integrity? The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) is currently seeking a strategic, experienced attorney to serve as the Counsel to the Inspector General. This position within the Office of Legal Services (OLS) offers the unique opportunity to provide authoritative legal guidance for one of the most critical agencies in the federal government. If you are an experienced leader ready to shape policy, conduct high-stakes oversight, and protect the American workforce, this could be your next professional milestone.
Job Responsibilities
As Counsel to the Inspector General, you are not just an attorney; you are a key executive advisor. Your primary responsibilities include:
- Legal Counsel: Serving as the lead legal advisor to the Inspector General on all OIG-related issues, ranging from criminal investigations to policy formulation.
- Regulatory Oversight: Directing the review of new laws and regulations, ensuring the OIG remains at the forefront of legislative compliance.
- Team Leadership: Managing a staff of highly skilled attorneys and professional support personnel across both national and regional offices.
- Representational Duties: Serving as the official representative of the OIG before federal agencies, congressional bodies, and other high-level organizations.
- Litigation Support: Managing complex legal programs involving Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests, ethics opinions, and support services for the Department of Justice.
Requirements
This position requires an elite candidate with both deep legal expertise and seasoned executive experience. You must possess:
- An LL.B. or J.D. from an ABA-accredited law school.
- Active, good-standing bar membership in a U.S. jurisdiction.
- Proven leadership experience equivalent to the GS-15 federal level.
- A 2-page resume that explicitly demonstrates mastery of the five Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs) and the mandatory Technical Qualifications (TQs).
Quick Qualification Comparison
| Qualification Type | Requirement | Focus Area |
|---|---|---|
| Technical (TQs) | Experience in Federal OIG/Legal Ops | Investigations, audits, FOIA, Ethics |
| Executive (ECQs) | Senior Level Leadership | Leading people, Driving efficiency, Results |
Salary Overview
The salary for this Senior Executive Service (SES) position ranges from $151,661 to $228,000 per year, commensurate with the high level of responsibility and the executive nature of the role.
Benefits
Employees of the Department of Labor enjoy competitive federal benefits, including:
- Extensive healthcare options through the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program.
- Robust retirement savings through the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching.
- Comprehensive life and long-term care insurance.
- Flexible leave policies and work-life balance initiatives.
Application Tips
- Respect the Constraints: The 2-page limit for your resume is non-negotiable. Do not attempt to bypass this by using tiny fonts or narrow margins; your application will be disqualified.
- Integrate Qualifications: Do not write separate essays for the ECQs. Instead, weave specific examples of your leadership accomplishments directly into your resume's experience section.
- Quality over Quantity: Focus on high-impact, measurable outcomes in your previous roles that demonstrate your ability to lead, manage, and drive results.
Serving as Counsel to the Inspector General is a rare opportunity for a legal expert to make a monumental impact. By bringing your skills in litigation, strategy, and executive management to the Department of Labor, you will help secure the future of the American worker. Prepare your materials carefully, focus on your executive impact, and apply today.
Why This Counsel To The Inspector General Job Matters
Shape the future of federal oversight as the Counsel to the Inspector General at the U.S. Department of Laborβa premier leadership opportunity for an expert legal strategist.
Counsel To The Inspector General Job Overview
The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) Office of Inspector General (OIG) is seeking a visionary legal executive to serve as Counsel to the Inspector General. In this pivotal role within the Office of Legal Services, you will oversee a sophisticated legal program, providing expert counsel on investigations, audits, and complex federal regulations. You will serve as the primary legal advisor to the Inspector General, steering the agency through critical legal challenges and ensuring the highest standards of operational integrity.
Requirements for Counsel To The Inspector General
- Professional law degree (LL.B. or J.D.) from an ABA-accredited law school.
- Active member in good standing of the bar in any U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia.
- Demonstrated senior executive-level leadership experience (typically equivalent to GS-15).
- Submission of a resume limited strictly to two (2) pages addressing Technical and Executive Core Qualifications.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.
- Must pass pre-employment drug screening.
- Compliance with financial disclosure requirements.
Preferred Qualifications for Counsel To The Inspector General
- Extensive experience in federal program audits, evaluations, and criminal/civil investigations.
- Proven track record in managing legal issues regarding procurement, ethics, appropriations, and whistleblower protection.
- Demonstrated ability to lead high-performing legal teams and manage complex litigation support.
- Prior experience as a member of the Senior Executive Service (SES) or certification through an OPM-approved SES Candidate Development Program.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- βComprehensive federal health insurance and life insurance plans.
- βGenerous retirement benefits, including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- βPaid vacation, federal holidays, and sick leave.
- βOpportunities for professional development and executive training.
- βFlexible work arrangements, including telework options.
π‘ How to Apply Counsel To The Inspector General Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Counsel To The Inspector General Job
- Log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that specifically addresses the five ECQs and TQs within a 2-page limit.
- Upload required documentation, including bar certification and academic transcripts.
- Submit the application via the online portal before the deadline.
- Monitor application status through the USAJOBS dashboard.
π‘ General Tips
- Do not use the USAJOBS Resume Builder; upload a custom 2-page document.
- Ensure your resume clearly mirrors the language used in the ECQ and TQ requirements.
- Double-check that your resume is formatted with at least 1-inch margins and 10-point font.
- Submit your application early to avoid last-minute technical delays.
- Attach your most recent performance evaluation if available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote position?
No, this position is based in Washington, D.C. While telework may be an option, the position is not designated as remote.
Do I need to write separate narratives for the ECQs?
No. The announcement specifically requests that ECQs and TQs be integrated into your 2-page resume. Separate narratives will not be reviewed.
Is there a residency requirement for this job?
*A: The position is located in Washington, D.C. While you do not need to live there at the time of application, you must be prepared to work from the D.C. office.*
How are applications ranked?
*A: After an initial screening, qualified applicants are reviewed by a panel of SES members who rate and rank the candidates before referring the best-qualified to the hiring official.*
Job from Office Of Inspector General
The Office of Inspector General (OIG) at the Department of Labor is dedicated to conducting independent audits, investigations, and evaluations to promote economy, efficiency, and effectiveness. As an OIG leader, you will contribute directly to the department's mission of serving and protecting the American workforce, ensuring that government programs remain transparent, compliant, and free from waste or fraud.
