Become the Counsel for Strategic Systems Programs: A Leadership Guide
The Department of the Navy is looking for a seasoned legal professional to step into the role of Counsel for Strategic Systems Programs (SSP). This position is not merely a job; it is a vital leadership post within the Senior Executive Service (SES), tasked with steering the legal framework of one of the nation’s most critical defense organizations.
Job Responsibilities
As the Counsel for SSP, you will act as the principal legal advisor. Your duties include:
- Overseeing the legal program across all organizational field offices.
- Providing expert guidance on commercial, fiscal, and acquisition law.
- Mentoring and supervising a dedicated team of legal professionals.
- Representing the agency in high-level policy forums and inter-agency discussions.
Requirements
To be considered, you must possess a Juris Doctor degree, be an active bar member, and have at least 6 years of post-J.D. experience. You must also demonstrate 4+ years of specialized senior-level management experience.
| Requirement Type | Criteria |
|---|---|
| Education | J.D. from an ABA-accredited school |
| Experience | 6+ years post-J.D. |
| Leadership | 4+ years in senior management |
| Security | Special-Sensitive/High Risk |
Salary and Benefits
This role offers a compensation package commensurate with the high level of responsibility, ranging from $199,712 to $228,000 annually. Federal employees enjoy robust benefits, including comprehensive health insurance, federal retirement programs, and the opportunity for professional growth within the SES structure.
Application Tips
- Format Matters: Stick to the 2-page resume limit.
- Targeted Narrative: Explicitly tie your career accomplishments to the TQs and ECQs requested.
- Proofing: Confirm your bar membership and transcript documents are clear and readable.
Serving as Counsel for SSP is a challenging yet rewarding path for a top-tier attorney. If you have the drive to lead and the expertise to protect the interests of the Navy, we encourage you to apply by the September 2026 deadline.
Why This Counsel, Strategic Systems Programs Job Matters
Shape the future of national defense as the Chief Legal Advisor for Strategic Systems Programs—an elite Senior Executive Service opportunity.
Counsel, Strategic Systems Programs Job Overview
The Department of the Navy is seeking a distinguished legal leader to serve as the Counsel for Strategic Systems Programs (SSP). This Senior Executive Service (SES) role serves as the principal legal authority for the organization, providing high-level guidance on complex business, fiscal, and commercial law matters. This position is based at the Washington Navy Yard and offers the opportunity to drive organizational excellence at the highest tiers of the federal government.
Requirements for Counsel, Strategic Systems Programs
- Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an ABA-accredited law school.
- Current active membership in good standing of the bar of a State, U.S. territory, or the District of Columbia.
- Minimum of 6 years of post-J.D. legal experience.
- At least 4 years of specialized senior-level experience providing legal oversight and leadership.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Special-Sensitive (SS)/High Risk security clearance.
- Must be able to address Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs) and Technical Qualifications (TQs) in a strictly 2-page resume.
Preferred Qualifications for Counsel, Strategic Systems Programs
- Proven track record of managing organizational budgets and technical resources.
- Expertise in acquisition, fiscal, and international or environmental law.
- Demonstrated ability to drive a high-accountability culture and lead cross-functional teams.
- Successful completion of an OPM-approved SES Candidate Development Program (SESCDP).
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Competitive Senior Executive Service salary.
- âś“Comprehensive federal health and retirement benefits.
- âś“Opportunities for professional development and training.
- âś“Meaningful work supporting the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps mission.
- âś“Telework eligibility.
đź’ˇ How to Apply Counsel, Strategic Systems Programs Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Counsel, Strategic Systems Programs Job
- Prepare a resume not exceeding two pages that specifically addresses all TQs and ECQs.
- Log into USAJOBS and navigate to the job announcement.
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire.
- Upload required documentation, including law school transcripts and SF-50 forms if applicable.
- Verify that all documents are legible and submitted prior to the closing date.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Do not use the USAJOBS Resume Builder; it is not recommended for this application.
- Strictly follow the 2-page limit for your resume; exceeding this will disqualify your application.
- Ensure your resume provides concrete examples of your leadership achievements.
- Review your submitted documents for legibility before finalizing the submission.
- Submit your application well before the deadline to account for potential technical processing times.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position open to the public?
This position is under the Senior Executive Service. Please review the hiring paths listed in the vacancy to determine your eligibility.
What happens if I submit a resume longer than 2 pages?
Your application will be automatically disqualified and will not be reviewed.
Do I need to address the ECQs if I am already an SES member?
If you are a current career SES member or a certified SESCDP graduate, you are not required to address the ECQs, but you must provide proof of your status.
Is veteran's preference applicable?
*A: No, veteran's preference does not apply to Senior Executive Service appointments.*
Can I email my resume?
*A: No. All applications must be submitted via the online system to be considered.*
Job from Strategic Systems Programs (Ssp)
Strategic Systems Programs (SSP) is responsible for the development, production, and maintenance of the Navy's strategic weapon systems. Joining the SSP team means working at the intersection of complex technology, national security, and federal law. The Navy offers a mission-driven environment where your legal expertise directly contributes to safeguarding national freedoms.