Advance Your Legal Career: General Attorney at PBGC
Are you looking to make a tangible impact on the financial security of the American workforce? The Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC) is currently seeking a dedicated General Attorney for its Office of General Counsel. This position offers a unique blend of high-level litigation, policy development, and regulatory oversight in the heart of Washington, D.C.
Job Responsibilities
As a General Attorney in the Program Law and Policy Department, your duties will be diverse and challenging. You will:
- Provide legal counsel regarding multiemployer pension plans.
- Investigate potential abuses of the agency's insurance programs.
- Draft pleadings, motions, and briefs for federal litigation.
- Collaborate with Congress and internal stakeholders on regulatory guidance.
- Negotiate settlements and draft complex transactional documents.
Comparison: Experience vs. Impact
| Focus Area | Primary Impact |
|---|---|
| Litigation | Protecting assets in federal court |
| Regulation | Shaping long-term pension policy |
| Compliance | Investigating program abuses |
Requirements
Candidates must meet the following criteria:
- A J.D. from an ABA-accredited law school.
- Current active bar membership in any U.S. jurisdiction.
- At least one year of specialized experience at the GS-13 level.
- Expertise in ERISA, bankruptcy, or administrative law.
Salary Overview
This position is categorized under the GS-14 grade level. The salary range for this role is $143,913 to $187,093 per year, commensurate with federal pay schedules and locality adjustments.
Benefits
Employees at the PBGC enjoy a robust benefits package, including:
- Health and Life Insurance.
- Federal Retirement (TSP).
- Annual and Sick Leave.
- Flexible work schedules.
Application Tips
To maximize your chances, keep your resume concise (two-page limit). Clearly articulate your specialized experience in ERISA or litigation. Ensure all transcripts and proof of bar membership are ready for upload.
This role is an excellent opportunity for an attorney to pivot into a mission-driven public service career. With a competitive salary, excellent benefits, and a high-impact legal environment, the PBGC offers a rewarding professional path in Washington, D.C.
Why This General Attorney Job Matters
Protect the retirement future of over 31 million Americans while advancing your legal career at one of the nation's premier federal agencies.
General Attorney Job Overview
The Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC) is seeking a highly skilled General Attorney to join the Office of General Counsel within the Program Law and Policy Department in Washington, D.C. This role offers a unique opportunity to shape the regulatory landscape for multiemployer pension plans, influence national policy, and engage in complex litigation and investigative work.
Requirements for General Attorney
- Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an ABA-accredited law school.
- Active membership in good standing with the bar of a State, U.S. Territory, or the District of Columbia.
- At least one year of specialized experience at the GS-13 grade level (or equivalent in the private sector).
- Proven experience in litigation, ERISA, bankruptcy, administrative law, or corporate transactional law.
Preferred Qualifications for General Attorney
- Demonstrated expertise in navigating complex regulatory schemes.
- Experience directing task forces or managing high-stakes case teams.
- Proven track record in drafting complex transactional agreements.
- Experience in representing clients in federal bankruptcy or district court proceedings.
- Background in providing authoritative legal advice regarding the Internal Revenue Code.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options
- ✓Competitive retirement savings plans including TSP
- ✓Generous paid annual and sick leave
- ✓Flexible telework arrangements
- ✓Life insurance programs
- ✓Professional development and training opportunities
💡 How to Apply General Attorney Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for General Attorney Job
- Register for a profile on USAJOBS to store your resume and documents.
- Review the full vacancy announcement thoroughly.
- Upload a resume (limited to two pages) and required law school transcripts.
- Submit official or unofficial proof of bar membership.
- Complete all required online questionnaires through the agency portal.
- Review your submission for completeness and save your receipt.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to the two-page limit; human resources will not review pages beyond the second.
- Tailor your experience section to explicitly match the specialized experience requirements mentioned in the announcement.
- Ensure your bar membership documentation is clear, even if it is just a printout from a state bar website.
- Do not include personal photographs or external links in your application materials.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the PBGC a good place to work?
Yes, PBGC was ranked as the number two small agency in the 2024 'Best Places to Work in the Federal Government' report.
What happens if I cannot apply online?
If you require reasonable accommodations or are unable to apply online, contact Cecilia Mendoza at 202-229-3713 or [email protected] by 5:00 p.m. the day before the closing date.
Is telework available for this position?
Yes, this position is eligible for telework, supporting the agency's commitment to flexibility.
Job from Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation
The PBGC is a federal agency with a mission-critical purpose: protecting the retirement incomes of over 31 million Americans. Recognized as a top federal workplace, the agency prides itself on fostering a culture of collaboration, diversity, and professional excellence. Joining the PBGC means contributing to a vital safety net that preserves the stability of pension plans across the country.