Become an Attorney-Adviser with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Are you a legal professional looking to pivot your career toward public service? The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is currently seeking talented individuals to serve as Attorney-Advisers within the Office of General Counsel (OGC). This is a unique opportunity to provide legal counsel on high-stakes, national issues that affect the health and welfare of people across the country.
Job Responsibilities
As an Attorney-Adviser, your daily routine will be dynamic. Key responsibilities include:
- Researching and interpreting complex statutes and case law.
- Drafting legal opinions and policy guidance for agency officials.
- Representing the agency in administrative proceedings.
- Advising on legal issues concerning the care, custody, and immigration matters of unaccompanied children.
| Experience Level | Key Requirement |
|---|---|
| GS-11 | J.D. + Active Bar Admission (Entry) |
| GS-12 | 1 Year Post-Bar Experience |
| GS-13 | 2 Years Post-Bar Experience |
| GS-14 | 3 Years Post-Bar Experience |
Requirements
To be considered, candidates must hold a J.D. or LL.B. from an accredited institution and maintain an active license to practice law. Your resume must clearly outline your specific legal experience, including dates and responsibilities. Please ensure your submission is under two pages.
Salary and Benefits
The salary range for these positions is between $63,795 and $139,684 annually, depending on grade level and experience. Federal benefits are extensive, including:
- Comprehensive healthcare and life insurance.
- Retirement plans with government matching.
- Generous paid time off.
- Potential eligibility for student loan repayment.
Application Tips
- Use the Resume Builder: This tool ensures you include necessary federal employment details.
- Be Specific: Quantify your achievements and describe your legal contributions clearly.
- Check for Assessments: You will be required to take a technical assessment; complete it promptly once the link is provided.
Serving as an Attorney-Adviser for HHS is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the public good. If you possess the required legal credentials and a passion for public health and humanitarian support, we encourage you to apply today via the official government portal.
Why This Attorney-Adviser (General) Job Matters
Shape the future of public health and immigrant welfare as a legal advocate for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Attorney-Adviser (General) Job Overview
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of General Counsel is seeking highly skilled Attorney-Advisers to join a vital legal team. This open-continuous announcement facilitates the placement of legal experts across various national locations, focusing on the critical work of the Office of Refugee Resettlement and broader departmental legal operations. Successful candidates will provide essential legal counsel, representation, and regulatory interpretation to support the agency's mission of protecting and promoting the well-being of vulnerable populations.
Requirements for Attorney-Adviser (General)
- Possession of a Juris Doctorate (J.D.) or Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) from an ABA-accredited law school.
- Current active bar membership in good standing in any U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia.
- Must maintain an active license to practice law as a continuous condition of federal employment.
- Submission of a professional resume not exceeding two pages in length.
- Completion of the USA Hire technical assessment.
- Ability to pass a suitability and security background investigation.
Preferred Qualifications for Attorney-Adviser (General)
- One year of post-bar professional legal experience for GS-12 equivalent levels.
- Two years of post-bar legal experience, including one year at the GS-12 equivalent for GS-13 roles.
- Three years of post-bar legal experience, including one year at the GS-13 equivalent for GS-14 roles.
- Demonstrated experience in immigration law or representing unaccompanied children.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
- ✓Comprehensive life insurance options.
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Paid federal holidays and generous annual and sick leave accrual.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
- ✓Potential for student loan repayment programs (contingent on funding).
- ✓Relocation and recruitment incentives may be authorized.
💡 How to Apply Attorney-Adviser (General) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Attorney-Adviser (General) Job
- Create or log in to a USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that specifically details legal duties, accomplishments, and start/end dates (MM/YY).
- Complete the occupational questionnaire provided in the portal.
- Upload required documentation, including transcripts and proof of bar admission.
- Submit the application package before the bi-weekly cut-off dates.
- Complete the mandatory USA Hire assessment upon receiving the notification link.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume does not exceed the two-page limit; extra length may disqualify you.
- Focus on using the official USAJOBS resume builder to ensure all required federal format elements are present.
- Detail your experience with specific dates and hours worked per week to ensure accurate credit.
- Do not copy and paste the job announcement text into your resume; instead, write original descriptions of your unique legal accomplishments.
- Monitor your email for the USA Hire assessment link, as failure to complete it within the designated timeframe will halt your application.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an open continuous announcement?
It means the agency accepts applications on an ongoing basis. Candidate lists are generated in two-week intervals, allowing the agency to fill multiple vacancies as they arise throughout the year.
Can I apply if my bar membership is inactive?
No. You must possess a current, active bar membership in good standing to qualify for this attorney position and must maintain this status throughout your tenure at HHS.
Is telework available?
Yes, this position is designated as telework eligible, subject to agency policy and supervisor approval.
Job from Office Of The Secretary Of Health And Human Services
The Office of the General Counsel serves as the primary legal backbone for HHS. From advising on complex public health regulations to providing support for the Office of Refugee Resettlement, the work performed here is both intellectually demanding and deeply rewarding. As an HHS attorney, you will work alongside a diverse group of experts dedicated to the department's humanitarian and regulatory missions.