Become an Assistant General Counsel with the Department of Justice
The Justice Management Division (JMD) of the Department of Justice (DOJ) is seeking a highly skilled Attorney to join its Office of the General Counsel (OGC). This is a rare opportunity to operate at the nexus of law and policy, serving as in-house counsel for one of the most critical departments in the U.S. government. If you are an experienced litigator or administrative law expert looking to pivot into high-level advisory work, this position offers unparalleled professional growth.
Job Responsibilities
As an Assistant General Counsel, your day-to-day will be dynamic and intellectually demanding. You will:
- Provide legal advice on appropriations, budget management, and financial regulations.
- Navigate complex personnel, labor, and employment issues.
- Manage FOIA and Privacy Act compliance.
- Represent the Department in administrative forums like the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) or the Government Accountability Office (GAO).
- Assist U.S. Attorney’s Offices with federal litigation related to administrative management.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, you must:
- Be a U.S. citizen.
- Possess a J.D. from an accredited institution.
- Maintain an active, good-standing bar membership.
- Have at least four years of post-J.D. legal experience.
| Requirement Type | Detail |
|---|---|
| Experience | 4+ Years Post-J.D. |
| Clearance | Secret |
| Citizenship | Required |
| Education | J.D. or Equivalent |
Salary Overview
This position is categorized at the GS-15 level. The salary range for this role is $169,279 to $197,200 per year. Actual pay is determined based on the successful candidate's experience and salary history.
Benefits
Employees of the Department of Justice enjoy a robust federal benefits package, including:
- Participation in the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program.
- Access to the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) for retirement savings.
- Generous annual leave and sick leave accrual.
- Life insurance and long-term care options.
- A workplace that prioritizes professional integrity and personal work-life balance.
Application Tips
The hiring process for federal legal positions is rigorous. Ensure your resume highlights the specific nature of your litigation or advisory experience. Since your writing sample is a core component of the evaluation, choose one that demonstrates your ability to simplify complex legal issues for management consumption.
Serving as an Assistant General Counsel with the JMD is a prestigious career move. You will work alongside top-tier legal professionals in the heart of Washington, D.C., protecting the rule of law while solving complex organizational challenges. Submit your application today to begin your journey with the Department of Justice.
Why This General Attorney (Assistant General Counsel) Job Matters
Step into a pivotal role at the heart of the Department of Justice, where your legal expertise directly supports the management and mission of the nation's premier law enforcement agency.
General Attorney (Assistant General Counsel) Job Overview
The Justice Management Division (JMD) Office of the General Counsel (OGC) is seeking an experienced Assistant General Counsel to provide essential in-house legal guidance. This role serves as a key advisor to senior leadership, addressing complex administrative matters ranging from government procurement and fiscal law to personnel policy and information access. The ideal candidate will thrive in a high-stakes, collaborative environment where they can influence organizational strategy and ensure operational compliance.
Requirements for General Attorney (Assistant General Counsel)
- U.S. Citizenship
- J.D. degree from an accredited law school
- Active member in good standing of the bar of any state or the District of Columbia
- Minimum of four years of post-J.D. legal experience
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance
- Ability to pass a pre-employment drug test
Preferred Qualifications for General Attorney (Assistant General Counsel)
- Experience in federal appropriations and budget management
- Strong background in procurement and government contract law
- Proven track record in administrative litigation, including forums like the EEOC, MSPB, or GAO
- Deep understanding of FOIA and Privacy Act requirements
- Exceptional analytical, writing, and interpersonal communication skills
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs
- ✓Competitive federal retirement plans
- ✓Paid vacation and sick leave
- ✓Federal holiday leave
- ✓Opportunities for professional development
- ✓Flexible work arrangements, including telework options
💡 How to Apply General Attorney (Assistant General Counsel) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for General Attorney (Assistant General Counsel) Job
- Prepare a resume (maximum two pages) detailing all relevant employment history, hours worked, and key achievements.
- Draft a cover letter highlighting your specific legal experience and interest in the JMD mission.
- Compile proof of active bar membership and a copy of your J.D. degree/transcripts.
- Select a legal writing sample of 10 pages or less.
- Gather references, SF-50 (for current federal employees), and performance appraisals.
- Submit all application materials directly via email to [email protected] by the deadline of September 10, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to two pages; this is a firm requirement for the hiring office.
- Ensure your writing sample showcases original legal analysis rather than just administrative drafting.
- Redact any sensitive information from your writing samples or performance reviews before submission.
- Clearly highlight your experience in the specific practice areas mentioned in the job duties.
- Submit your email application well before the closing date to avoid technical delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote position?
No, the position is located in Washington, D.C. While telework may be eligible based on agency policy, it is not a fully remote role.
How do I submit my application?
Applications for this position are handled directly by the Department of Justice via email. Please send your documentation to [email protected].
Does this role require a security clearance?
Yes, this role requires a Secret security clearance and carries a high-risk sensitivity designation.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline for submissions is September 10, 2026.
Can I apply through USAJOBS?
No, this is a specialized legal announcement. Please follow the instructions to email your documents directly to the JMD Office of the General Counsel.
Job from Offices, Boards And Divisions
The Department of Justice stands as the cornerstone of American legal integrity. The Justice Management Division functions as the administrative backbone of the Department, overseeing everything from fiscal responsibility and procurement to personnel and information security. By joining the OGC, you are not just practicing law; you are ensuring that the entire Department operates within the letter of the law.