Become a Senior Attorney Advisor at the U.S. Department of Education
Are you a seasoned legal professional with a passion for civil rights and public service? The U.S. Department of Education is currently seeking an Attorney Advisor (GS-15) to join the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) in Washington, D.C. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of educational access through sophisticated legal analysis and strategic communications.
About the Office for Civil Rights
The Office for Civil Rights (OCR) is committed to ensuring equal access to education and promoting excellence throughout the nation. OCR enforces federal civil rights laws that prohibit discrimination in programs or activities that receive federal financial assistance. By joining the Department of Education, you become part of an agency that manages over $47 billion in annual grants and provides national leadership on the most critical educational issues facing America today.
Job Responsibilities
As an Attorney Advisor, you will act as a bridge between legal enforcement and public communication. Your duties will be varied and high-impact:
- Media Liaison: Serve as the primary point of contact for the Office for Communications and Outreach, managing dozens of daily media requests.
- Policy Development: Prepare policy options for the Assistant Secretary, implement new initiatives, and draft Congressional testimony.
- Legal Counseling: Provide expert guidance on complex Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) inquiries and appeals.
- Mentorship: Advise and train other attorneys and staff on civil rights legal matters and communication strategies.
- Strategic Operations: Coordinate project management and personnel matters within the Office of the Assistant Secretary.
Qualifications and Requirements
To qualify for this GS-15 position, candidates must meet stringent professional standards:
Comparison Table: Qualification Paths
| Experience Type | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Standard Path | 4 years professional legal experience |
| Advanced Degree Path | 3 years experience + LL.M. |
| Academic Honors Path | 3 years experience + Superior law school record |
Note: At least one year of your experience must be at a level equivalent to a GS-14 position.
Benefits
Working for the Department of Education offers a comprehensive federal benefits package designed to support both your professional and personal life:
- Work-Life Balance: Access to 3 hours of leave for parent/teacher conferences and 4 hours for health screenings.
- Financial Incentives: Potential for recruitment or relocation bonuses and participation in the Student Loan Repayment Program.
- Flexibility: Telework eligibility and alternative work schedules.
How to Apply
- Documentation: Gather your resume (limited to 2 pages) and prepare to address the occupational questionnaire.
- Assessment: Be prepared to complete the USA Hire Assessments after your initial submission.
- Submission: Use the official USAJOBS portal to submit your application before the closing date.
This role is designed for a leader who excels under pressure and can translate complex civil rights laws into effective policy and communication. If you are ready to contribute your legal expertise to the Department of Education, start your application today.
Why This Attorney Advisor, Gs-0905-15, Fpl Gs-15 (Excepted Service) Job Matters
Shape federal civil rights policy and lead high-stakes communication strategies at the U.S. Department of Education.
Attorney Advisor, Gs-0905-15, Fpl Gs-15 (Excepted Service) Job Overview
The Department of Education is seeking a highly skilled Attorney Advisor for the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) in Washington, D.C. This role serves as a senior-level legal expert, acting as a primary liaison with communications teams, managing high-visibility policy projects, and providing critical legal advice on Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) matters. You will work directly with the Assistant Secretary and Deputy Assistant Secretaries to drive impactful educational policy on a national scale.
Requirements for Attorney Advisor, Gs-0905-15, Fpl Gs-15 (Excepted Service)
- U.S. Citizenship
- Active member in good standing of the Bar of a State, Territory, or D.C.
- Four years of professional legal experience (or three years with a qualifying LL.M. or superior academic credentials).
- At least one year of professional legal experience equivalent to a GS-14 level.
- Registration with the Selective Service (for males 18+).
- Must be determined suitable for federal employment.
- Successful completion of a one-year trial period.
Preferred Qualifications for Attorney Advisor, Gs-0905-15, Fpl Gs-15 (Excepted Service)
- Expertise in civil rights enforcement laws.
- Proven history of managing high-visibility media and communications strategy in a legal context.
- Experience developing legal opinions for agency leadership.
- Background in FOIA management and complex legal analysis.
- Strong project leadership skills in a collaborative team environment.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with advancement potential.
- ✓Work-life balance initiatives, including excused leave for parent/teacher conferences and health screenings.
- ✓Flexible work schedules and telework eligibility.
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives.
- ✓Student Loan Repayment Program eligibility.
- ✓Generous federal leave and volunteer service programs.
💡 How to Apply Attorney Advisor, Gs-0905-15, Fpl Gs-15 (Excepted Service) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Attorney Advisor, Gs-0905-15, Fpl Gs-15 (Excepted Service) Job
- Prepare a resume (max 2 pages) and cover letter.
- Create or sign into your USAJOBS account.
- Complete the online questionnaire and attach all required documentation.
- Submit your application package by 11:59 PM ET on the closing date.
- Complete the required USA Hire Assessments if prompted via email.
- Monitor your status through the USAJOBS portal.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to 2 pages to ensure the full document is reviewed.
- Highlight specific examples of how you handled sensitive, precedent-setting legal issues.
- Ensure your resume substantiates the competencies required for a GS-15 role.
- Set aside three hours of uninterrupted time for the USA Hire Assessments.
- If claiming Veterans' Preference, ensure your DD-214 or SF-15 documentation is ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote position?
No, this position is located in Washington, D.C. While the role is telework eligible, it is not a fully remote position.
What is the pay range for this position?
The salary for this GS-15 position ranges from $169,279 to $197,200 annually.
Is veterans' preference applied to this position?
As this is an excepted service attorney position, there is no formal system for veterans' preference; however, the agency considers it a positive factor.
What is the trial period?
As an excepted service position, you will be required to serve a one-year trial period to evaluate your fitness for the role.
Do I need a bar card to apply?
You do not need to submit it with your initial application, but you must be an active member in good standing and will be required to provide it upon request.