Advance Your Legal Career with the Department of Justice: Attorney-Adviser (Privacy & Civil Liberties)
The United States Department of Justice (DOJ) plays an indispensable role in upholding the rule of law. If you are an experienced attorney passionate about privacy law, civil liberties, and the ethical implementation of new technologies, the Office of Privacy and Civil Liberties (OPCL) offers a uniquely impactful career path. We are currently seeking three highly skilled Attorney-Advisers to join our team in Washington, D.C., to help guide the Department through the complex legal landscape of the 21st century.
Job Responsibilities
As an Attorney-Adviser, you will handle high-level legal work, including:
- Providing counsel on privacy and civil liberties implications of legislative and regulatory proposals.
- Establishing controls to mitigate risks in artificial intelligence applications.
- Managing responses to data breaches and privacy complaints.
- Representing the DOJ on inter-agency working groups.
- Drafting reports for Congress and oversight bodies.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, you must meet the following criteria:
- Education: Possession of a J.D. from an accredited law school.
- Bar Status: Active member in good standing in any U.S. jurisdiction.
- Experience: At least three years of relevant professional legal experience.
- Clearance: Ability to obtain a high-risk, special-sensitive security clearance.
Salary and Grade Comparison
This is a GS-14/15 level position. Compensation reflects the high level of expertise required for this role.
| Pay Grade | Salary Range (Annual) |
|---|---|
| GS-14 / GS-15 | $143,913 - $197,200 |
Benefits
Joining the DOJ provides more than just a competitive salary. You gain access to a comprehensive federal benefits package, including:
- Robust health and life insurance options.
- Retirement savings via the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- Generous leave policies, including paid federal holidays.
- Flexibility with telework options to support work-life balance.
Application Tips
- Be Concise: Your resume must be two pages or less.
- Curate Samples: Ensure your writing samples clearly demonstrate your analytical depth.
- Follow Format: All documents must be submitted as a PDF via email with the correct subject line to be considered.
If you are ready to contribute your legal expertise to a mission that protects both national security and individual privacy, we invite you to apply. This role offers an unparalleled opportunity to influence federal policy at the highest levels of government.
Why This Attorney-Adviser (General) Job Matters
Shape the future of privacy policy at the Department of Justice—your expertise in law, civil liberties, and emerging technology is needed to protect the nation.
Attorney-Adviser (General) Job Overview
The Office of Privacy and Civil Liberties (OPCL) is seeking experienced Attorney-Advisers to provide critical legal guidance to Department of Justice leadership. This role is central to safeguarding privacy, ensuring compliance with federal mandates, and navigating complex policy issues involving artificial intelligence, national security, and law enforcement. Based in Washington, D.C., you will serve as a key advisor in a high-stakes environment where your legal analysis directly impacts the Department's mission and the privacy rights of the American public.
Requirements for Attorney-Adviser (General)
- Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
- Active member of the bar in good standing in any U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia.
- Minimum of three years of relevant professional J.D. experience.
- Demonstrated experience managing privacy and civil liberties issues.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Special-Sensitive/High Risk security clearance.
- Successful completion of a drug test.
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
Preferred Qualifications for Attorney-Adviser (General)
- Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP) certification from the International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP).
- Expertise in law enforcement and national security legal frameworks.
- Proven track record of resolving complex legal matters with minimal precedent.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal health insurance programs
- ✓Life insurance coverage
- ✓Retirement savings via the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)
- ✓Paid federal holidays, vacation time, and sick leave
- ✓Flexible telework opportunities
- ✓Professional development and training programs
💡 How to Apply Attorney-Adviser (General) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Attorney-Adviser (General) Job
- Prepare a PDF application package containing your cover letter, resume, transcript, bar membership proof, writing samples, and references.
- Ensure your resume is limited to two pages and includes detailed employment history.
- Include your most recent performance appraisal and a statement regarding any past political appointments.
- Submit your complete application via email to the address provided in the official announcement.
- Use the specific subject line: 'OPCL Attorney Advisor Opportunity'.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your two writing samples showcase both general professional writing and formal legal analysis.
- Redact sensitive information from writing samples and performance appraisals to protect privacy.
- Clearly address how your experience aligns with privacy and civil liberties in your cover letter.
- Verify your eligibility for veterans' preference and include all required supporting documents if applicable.
- Check for potential conflicts of interest regarding your current clients or cases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I submit my application through USAJOBS?
No, this is a public notice flyer. You must submit your application materials directly to the email address provided in the vacancy announcement.
Is this position remote?
No, this position is located in Washington, D.C. However, the role is eligible for telework in accordance with Department of Justice policies.
Does this position have promotion potential?
No, these vacancies are not part of a career ladder and have no promotion potential beyond the GS-15 level.
Are relocation expenses covered?
*A: No, relocation expenses are not authorized for this position.*
How long is the hiring process?
*A: We aim to extend final offers within 90 days of the announcement closing.*
Job from Offices, Boards And Divisions
The OPCL serves under the Chief Privacy and Civil Liberties Officer (CPCLO), who advises the Attorney General and Department leadership. We are the central hub for privacy and civil liberties policy, ensuring that the DOJ remains both effective and compliant with constitutional freedoms. Our work is dynamic, fast-paced, and intellectually rigorous.