Become an Attorney Advisor at the Federal Railroad Administration
Are you a legal professional passionate about public service and infrastructure? The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), an arm of the U.S. Department of Transportation, is hiring an Attorney Advisor to specialize in Personnel and General Law. This unique role places you at the heart of federal decision-making, where you will provide vital legal guidance to ensure the FRA continues its mission of safety and innovation.
Job Responsibilities
As an Attorney Advisor, you will serve as a trusted legal counselor. Your daily tasks will include:
- Personnel Law: Providing advice to management regarding employment issues.
- Labor Relations: Navigating grievances, arbitrations, and collective bargaining processes.
- Litigation: Representing the agency before the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB).
- Ethics: Ensuring staff compliance with federal conflict of interest and ethics regulations.
- Civil Rights: Providing expert legal support for programs under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
Requirements
To succeed in this role, candidates must meet specific criteria:
- Education: A J.D. or LL.B. from an ABA-accredited law school.
- Bar Status: Active membership in good standing in any U.S. state, territory, or D.C. bar.
- Experience: Varies by grade level (GS-12 to GS-15). You must possess at least one to four years of professional legal experience, depending on the grade for which you qualify.
- Security: Successful completion of a background investigation.
Grade Comparison Table
| Grade Level | Required Legal Experience |
|---|---|
| GS-12 | 1 Year |
| GS-13 | 2 Years |
| GS-14 | 3 Years |
| GS-15 | 4 Years |
Salary Overview
This position offers a highly competitive federal salary range starting at $102,415 and reaching up to $197,200 per year, commensurate with your experience and the assigned grade level.
Benefits
Employees of the FRA enjoy comprehensive federal benefits, including:
- Exceptional health insurance plans.
- Federal retirement contributions.
- Generous annual leave and sick time.
- Opportunities for remote and telework flexibility.
Application Tips
- Resume Limit: Strictly adhere to the two-page resume limit.
- Clarity: Use specific dates, position titles, and hours worked. Do not force the hiring team to guess your experience.
- Detail: Clearly articulate your background in personnel and labor law as these are key focus areas.
This role offers a remarkable opportunity to influence federal transportation policy while building a prestigious career. If you meet the qualifications and are ready to tackle complex legal challenges, submit your application today.
Why This Attorney Advisor (Personnel And General Law) Job Matters
Join the Federal Railroad Administration and shape the future of transportation law as an Attorney Advisor, where your expertise directly influences critical infrastructure and national safety.
Attorney Advisor (Personnel And General Law) Job Overview
The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) is seeking a dedicated Attorney Advisor to join the Office of Personnel and General Law. This role provides an essential opportunity to navigate the complex intersection of employment law, labor relations, ethics, and civil rights. As a pivotal member of the team, you will support the agency's mission by providing expert legal counsel to leadership, representing the FRA in high-stakes administrative proceedings, and ensuring organizational adherence to federal ethics mandates. This position is perfect for a mission-driven legal professional looking to make a meaningful impact within a collaborative, high-performing environment at the U.S. Department of Transportation.
Requirements for Attorney Advisor (Personnel And General Law)
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Must possess a J.D., LL.B., or equivalent law degree from an ABA-accredited institution.
- Active member in good standing of the bar of any U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia.
- At least one year of progressively responsible professional legal experience for the lowest grade, with requirements increasing up to four years for the GS-15 level.
- Ability to complete a background/security investigation.
- Compliance with financial disclosure requirements.
- Must be willing to undergo a two-year trial period.
- Males born after 12/31/59 must be registered for Selective Service.
Preferred Qualifications for Attorney Advisor (Personnel And General Law)
- Proven experience representing federal agencies before the EEOC or the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB).
- Deep understanding of federal labor-management relations, including collective bargaining and arbitration.
- Expertise in Federal ethics regulations, including conflicts of interest and outside employment rules.
- Demonstrated skill in drafting clear, concise legal documents for executive leadership.
- Background in Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 implementation.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary and pay progression.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs.
- ✓Access to the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- ✓Flexible work arrangements including telework options.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
💡 How to Apply Attorney Advisor (Personnel And General Law) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Attorney Advisor (Personnel And General Law) Job
- Register and log in to the USAJobs portal.
- Prepare a resume limited to exactly two pages, including specific dates, hours worked, and job series/grades.
- Email your cover letter, resume, proof of bar membership, and law school transcripts to [email protected].
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire through the official application portal.
- Ensure all documentation is submitted before the 11:59 PM EST closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to two pages as mandated by current policy; excess pages will not be reviewed.
- Be explicit about your legal experience; the agency does not make assumptions about your duties.
- If you are a veteran, include your supporting documentation like a DD214 to be considered for preference, though note that this is an excepted service position.
- Verify that all documents are uploaded correctly within the application system before clicking submit.
- Monitor your email for status updates after the initial 21-day review period.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a permanent position?
Yes, this is a permanent, full-time position within the Excepted Service.
Can I hold railroad stock while working for the FRA?
No, all FRA employees, their spouses, and minor children are strictly prohibited from holding railroad stock, including shares in Berkshire Hathaway/BNSF, due to federal ethics regulations.
How long is the trial period?
All new hires are required to serve a two-year trial period to evaluate performance and conduct.
Is relocation assistance offered?
*A: No, relocation expenses are not authorized for this position.*
What is the trial period?
*A: You must serve a two-year trial period to confirm your fitness for the role and service to the public interest.*
Job from Federal Railroad Administration
The U.S. Department of Transportation is committed to modernizing the nation's infrastructure and improving transportation efficiency. The FRA specifically focuses on rail safety and development. Known as one of the best places to work in the federal government, the DOT fosters an environment of urgency, discipline, and professional growth.