Lead the Nation's Watchdog: Managing Associate General Counsel at the GAO
Are you an experienced legal executive looking to make a substantial impact on federal accountability? The Government Accountability Office (GAO) is currently seeking a Managing Associate General Counsel to join its Senior Executive Service (SES). This role is critical to the mission of providing Congress with reliable, non-partisan analysis of government programs.
Job Responsibilities
You will manage an OGC component comprised of Assistant General Counsels, staff attorneys, and paralegals. Key responsibilities include:
- Providing legal advice on the federal government's audit, evaluation, and investigative activities.
- Directing the legal sufficiency of all GAO products.
- Mentoring and supervising Assistant General Counsels and supporting staff.
- Representing the GAO before Congress, federal agencies, and international bodies.
Comparison of Requirements
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Education | Juris Doctor from an ABA-accredited school |
| Experience | 52 weeks of specialized legal/executive work at the GS-14/15 level |
| Licensure | Active membership in any U.S. Bar |
| Clearance | Ability to obtain and maintain Top Secret status |
Requirements
To be eligible, you must demonstrate advanced professional knowledge of federal law and statutory construction. Candidates must prove they have the capability to handle high-level interactions with officials from academia, industry, and the government. Applicants who have never held a career SES appointment must also submit narrative responses to the Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs) regarding Leading Change, Leading People, Results Driven, Business Acumen, and Building Coalitions.
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive salary ranging from $151,661 to $228,000 per year. In addition to a robust federal salary, the GAO provides an extensive benefits package including comprehensive health plans, generous vacation time, and long-term retirement planning support.
Application Tips
When applying for an SES position, precision is key. Your resume must clearly reflect your progression into executive-level responsibilities. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) in your TQ narratives to demonstrate how your specific actions led to measurable improvements in your previous organizations. Ensure that all required documents are sent to the official contact by the closing date, as late or incomplete applications will not be processed.
This is a unique opportunity to lead at one of the most respected oversight bodies in the federal government. If you are an attorney with a passion for public service and executive leadership, we encourage you to apply by the September 11, 2026 deadline.
Why This Managing Associate General Counsel Job Matters
Lead the legal strategy for the nation's watchdog. The GAO is seeking a seasoned executive to oversee critical legal operations and shape federal oversight.
Managing Associate General Counsel Job Overview
The Government Accountability Office (GAO) is looking for a Managing Associate General Counsel to join its Senior Executive Service (SES) leadership team. This pivotal role involves directing complex legal work that supports Congress in ensuring federal accountability and transparency. You will guide mission-critical legal teams, provide counsel on high-stakes investigations, and ensure the legal integrity of all GAO products.
Requirements for Managing Associate General Counsel
- Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an ABA-accredited law school.
- Active, good-standing membership in the bar of any U.S. state, territory, D.C., or Puerto Rico.
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-14/15 level or higher (or equivalent executive/private sector experience).
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.
- Financial disclosure reporting upon appointment.
- Completion of a one-year SES probationary period (if applicable).
Preferred Qualifications for Managing Associate General Counsel
- Demonstrated experience in statutory construction and federal regulatory law.
- Strong track record in managing diverse legal teams and administrative staff.
- Proven ability to navigate complex stakeholder landscapes involving Congress, federal agencies, and the private sector.
- Expertise in strategic policy development and organizational improvement.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, and vision insurance.
- ✓Generous retirement plans including the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Paid annual and sick leave.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
- ✓Flexible work arrangements, including telework eligibility.
💡 How to Apply Managing Associate General Counsel Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Managing Associate General Counsel Job
- Prepare a resume (max 2 pages) detailing relevant executive experience and accomplishments.
- Draft individual, 2-page-or-less narratives for each of the three mandatory Technical Qualifications (TQs).
- Draft narrative responses for the Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs) if you have not previously held an SES appointment.
- Compile all documents and submit via email to the designated point of contact.
- Include 'Managing Associate General Counsel, ES-0905-00' in the email subject line.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume emphasizes the complexity and scope of your previous leadership roles rather than just job titles.
- Proofread your TQ narratives to ensure they clearly link your experience to specific examples of policy or legal successes.
- Submit your package well in advance of the deadline to allow for verification of receipt.
- Check your resume for the required contact info, specific work dates, and weekly hours as mandated by current hiring policies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this Managing Associate General Counsel role?
You will manage legal support for specific mission teams including Forensic Audits, Financial Markets, and Natural Resources, ensuring the legal sufficiency of all GAO investigative products.
Is travel required for this position?
While the role is based in Washington, D.C., applicants should be prepared for occasional travel as necessary to perform oversight functions, though relocation expenses are not provided.
Job from Government Accountability Office
The U.S. Government Accountability Office is the 'congressional watchdog.' We investigate how the federal government spends taxpayer money and provide unbiased information to help Congress improve performance and ensure accountability. As a Managing Associate General Counsel, you sit at the heart of this mission, ensuring that our reports meet the highest legal and ethical standards.