Become a General Attorney at the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation
Are you looking to use your legal expertise to support the financial security of millions? The Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC) is currently hiring for a General Attorney within its Bankruptcy, Litigation, and Terminations Department (BLTD). This is a unique opportunity to engage in high-stakes legal work within one of the nation's most respected federal agencies.
About the PBGC
The PBGC is a federal agency with a vital, mission-driven mandate: protecting the retirement incomes of over 34 million Americans. Whether in single-employer or multiemployer plans, the PBGC ensures that beneficiaries receive their earned pensions. The agency has consistently been ranked as one of the best places to work in the federal government, largely due to its commitment to work-life balance, organizational culture, and the challenging nature of the work performed by its staff.
Job Responsibilities
As a General Attorney (GS-14), you will be an integral part of a legal team tackling sophisticated cases. Your responsibilities include:
- Litigation: Representing the agency in federal district and bankruptcy courts.
- Legal Counsel: Providing authoritative legal interpretation on agency program matters.
- Investigation: Conducting complex fact-finding and statutory research.
- Negotiation: Drafting and settling complex agreements, including termination and trusteeship settlements.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Education: A Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an ABA-accredited law school.
- Bar Membership: Must be an active member in good standing of the bar of any U.S. jurisdiction.
- Experience: One year of specialized experience at the GS-13 level or equivalent, encompassing litigation or specialized areas like ERISA or bankruptcy law.
Comparison of Qualifications
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Education | Must possess a J.D. from an ABA-accredited school |
| Licensure | Active bar membership in good standing required |
| Experience | Min. 1 year at GS-13 level (or private sector equivalent) |
| Skills | ERISA, Bankruptcy, or Complex Civil Litigation expertise |
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive salary range of $143,913 to $187,093. Beyond compensation, employees benefit from a robust federal benefits package, including health insurance, retirement planning, and generous leave policies.
Application Tips
To ensure your application is successful, customize your resume to reflect your litigation track record. Be sure to include your J.D. transcripts and documentation of your active bar status. If you require reasonable accommodation, reach out to the agency contact listed in the announcement well before the deadline.
If you are an experienced litigator or bankruptcy specialist ready for a new challenge, the PBGC offers a career path that combines professional excellence with public service. Apply today to contribute to a mission that protects the future of millions of retirees.
Why This General Attorney Job Matters
Protect the retirements of 34 million Americans while advancing your legal career at a top-ranked federal agency.
General Attorney Job Overview
The Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC) is seeking a skilled General Attorney to join the Bankruptcy, Litigation, and Terminations Department (BLTD) in Washington, D.C. In this high-impact role, you will provide critical legal counsel, manage complex bankruptcy and civil litigation, and protect the retirement security of millions of citizens.
Requirements for General Attorney
- J.D. degree from an American Bar Association (ABA) accredited law school.
- Active membership in good standing in the bar of any State, U.S. Territory, or the District of Columbia.
- At least one year of specialized experience at the GS-13 level (or private sector equivalent).
- Must be able to pass a Moderate Risk background investigation.
Preferred Qualifications for General Attorney
- Substantial experience with Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) law.
- Demonstrated expertise in bankruptcy and insolvency proceedings.
- Proven track record in managing complex civil litigation or administrative law cases.
- Experience with corporate transactional law and drafting complex legal agreements.
- Demonstrated ability to mentor junior attorneys or lead multi-disciplinary case teams.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary and comprehensive benefits package.
- ✓High rankings for work-life balance and organizational culture.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and advancement.
- ✓Telework eligibility.
- ✓Stable career with a mission-driven federal agency.
💡 How to Apply General Attorney Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for General Attorney Job
- Register for a personal account on USAJOBS.
- Prepare a resume that specifically highlights your litigation experience and KSA alignment.
- Gather your J.D. law school transcripts and official proof of bar membership.
- Submit your application through the USAJOBS portal by the closing date.
- Follow the prompts to the agency-specific site to complete your eligibility questionnaire.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly details your experience with ERISA, bankruptcy, or complex litigation.
- If you lack a formal certificate of good standing, provide alternative proof such as bar dues receipts.
- Save your application confirmation page immediately after submission as proof of receipt.
- Ensure all international education credentials are evaluated for U.S. equivalency before applying.
Frequently Asked Questions
What level of experience is required for this role?
Applicants must demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience at the GS-13 grade level (federal or private sector equivalent), particularly in litigation or bankruptcy.
Is telework available for this position?
Yes, this position is designated as telework-eligible, subject to agency policy.