Become an Executive Leader: Division Counsel for the National Taxpayer Advocate Program
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is currently seeking a highly skilled legal expert to serve as the Division Counsel/Associate Chief Counsel (National Taxpayer Advocate Program). This role is a marquee position within the Senior Executive Service (SES), offering a veteran legal professional the chance to shape how the IRS interacts with taxpayers across the country.
Job Responsibilities
The successful candidate will act as the executive manager for programs relating to the Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS). Key duties include:
- Providing legal counsel to the National Taxpayer Advocate (NTA) and headquarters staff.
- Coordinating nationwide legal strategies between the Office of Chief Counsel and field offices.
- Reviewing and elevating legal advice issued to TAS offices.
- Leading legislation, regulation, and ruling development to support taxpayer rights.
- Managing a team of high-level GS-15 attorneys.
Requirements
Applicants must possess:
- An LL.B. or J.D. from an ABA-accredited law school.
- Active, good-standing status at the bar of a state or U.S. territory.
- A strong background in executive-level leadership.
Comparison Table: Qualifications
| Requirement Type | Preferred Candidate Profile |
|---|---|
| Education | J.D. + LL.M. in Taxation |
| Experience | 7+ years of professional tax law experience |
| Leadership | Substantial experience supervising subordinate managers |
| Policy | Knowledge of Taxpayer First Act & IRC sections 7803/7811 |
Salary Overview
This SES position offers a competitive salary ranging from $151,661 to $228,000 per year, commensurate with experience and executive certification levels.
Benefits
Employees of the Department of the Treasury enjoy robust federal benefits, including:
- Comprehensive health and retirement packages (FERS).
- Generous vacation time and federal holidays.
- Remote work and telework options.
- Ongoing executive leadership development.
Application Tips
- Respect the Resume Limit: The application strictly requires a two-page resume.
- Use CCAR: For your ECQs, articulate your accomplishments using the Challenge, Context, Action, and Results format.
- Detail Your Time: Be explicit with months and hours worked; this is the primary way the agency grants credit for experience.
This role is an ideal trajectory for a senior legal professional looking to contribute to the fairness and integrity of the U.S. tax system. If you meet the qualifications, we encourage you to apply by September 4, 2026.
Why This Division Counsel/Associate Chief Counsel (National Taxpayer Advocate Program) Job Matters
Shape the future of taxpayer rights as a premier executive within the IRS Office of Chief Counsel. We are seeking an authoritative legal leader to guide the National Taxpayer Advocate Program at the highest level of federal service.
Division Counsel/Associate Chief Counsel (National Taxpayer Advocate Program) Job Overview
The Internal Revenue Service is seeking a distinguished attorney to serve as the Division Counsel/Associate Chief Counsel for the National Taxpayer Advocate (NTA) Program. This Senior Executive Service (SES) role serves as the principal legal advisor to the NTA and the Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS). You will manage complex legal guidance, oversee policy development, and ensure the integrity of the tax code while protecting taxpayer rights nationwide. This position offers a unique opportunity to influence high-stakes federal policy and provide executive leadership within one of the nation's largest and most sophisticated law firms.
Requirements for Division Counsel/Associate Chief Counsel (National Taxpayer Advocate Program)
- Possess a professional law degree (J.D. or LL.B.) from an ABA-accredited institution.
- Must be an active member in good standing of the bar of a State, U.S. Commonwealth, territory, the District of Columbia, or Puerto Rico.
- Proven history of progressively responsible executive leadership and supervisory experience.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a High Risk (HR) background investigation.
- Submission of a concise, two-page resume highlighting leadership experience and executive core qualifications.
- U.S. citizenship is required.
Preferred Qualifications for Division Counsel/Associate Chief Counsel (National Taxpayer Advocate Program)
- Possession of an LL.M. in Taxation.
- Seven or more years of intensive, professional tax-related legal experience.
- Demonstrated success in managing diverse teams through subordinate supervisors.
- Experience in hiring, developing, and performance evaluation within a large-scale organization.
- Comprehensive knowledge of the IRS Restructuring and Reform Act of 1998 and the Taxpayer First Act.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Opportunities for telework and flexible work scheduling.
- ✓Professional growth and leadership training through federal executive development programs.
- ✓Competitive salary range with potential for performance-based increases.
- ✓Generous paid annual and sick leave, plus federal holidays.
💡 How to Apply Division Counsel/Associate Chief Counsel (National Taxpayer Advocate Program) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Division Counsel/Associate Chief Counsel (National Taxpayer Advocate Program) Job
- Create or update your account on the official USAJOBS platform.
- Prepare a two-page resume detailing your specific legal and executive experience.
- Navigate to the application portal to complete the required online questionnaire.
- Upload all necessary documentation, including your law license, bar certification, and transcripts.
- Review your application package for completeness and accuracy prior to the closing date.
- Submit your application and monitor the status through your USAJOBS account dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Strictly adhere to the two-page resume limit; documents exceeding this will not be considered.
- Use the Challenge, Context, Action, Results (CCAR) model to describe your experience with the Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs).
- Clearly indicate your hours worked per week and specific dates (month/year) for every position listed on your resume to ensure full credit.
- If you have previous SES certification, ensure you attach your proof of certification (SF-50) to expedite processing.
- Submit your application well before the deadline to account for potential document processing or system delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Senior Executive Service (SES)?
The SES is a corps of executives who manage the programs of the U.S. government. They possess the skills to lead high-level organizations, focus on results, and carry on the continuity of government.
Do I need to write essays for the Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs)?
No. You do not need to submit written narratives; however, you must be prepared to address these qualifications in a structured interview if you are selected for the final round.
Is relocation assistance available?
Relocation expenses may be authorized for current federal employees, subject to agency eligibility guidelines.
What is the background check process?
*A: This is a high-risk position. You will undergo a background investigation, continuous vetting, and enrollment in the FBI’s Rap Back service.*
How do I know if I qualify for non-competitive SES status?
*A: If you hold a current career SES appointment or have finished an OPM-certified Candidate Development Program, you must provide your SF-50 or certificate.*
Job from Internal Revenue Service
The Office of Chief Counsel acts as the premier tax law firm for the United States. With nearly 1,700 attorneys, it serves as the backbone of the IRS, ensuring the tax code is applied with fairness, integrity, and legal precision. As a part of the Department of the Treasury, you will be working at the intersection of law, finance, and public service.