Advance Your Career: Risk and Compliance Attorney at the SEC
Are you a legal professional with a passion for securities regulation and institutional risk management? The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is looking for a sophisticated, results-oriented attorney to join the Division of Enforcement in Boston, Massachusetts.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will be the cornerstone of risk and compliance for the Division of Enforcement. Your primary duties include:
- Risk Mitigation: Identifying and evaluating operational and legal risks across investigative and litigation activities.
- Compliance Monitoring: Developing and implementing testing regimes for critical programs, including the 961 Program and the Management Assurance Program.
- Reporting: Delivering high-level reports to senior leadership to support attestations and regulatory certifications.
- Policy Development: Drafting and updating internal policies to close identified gaps and improve performance.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Education: A J.D. or LL.B. degree from an accredited institution.
- Licensure: Active bar membership in good standing.
- Experience: One year of specialized experience at the SK-14 level, specifically in advising on Federal securities laws and policies.
Comparison: General Attorney Roles vs. Risk/Compliance Roles
| Feature | General Attorney | Risk and Compliance Attorney |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Litigation/Legal Advice | Policy, Risk, and Internal Oversight |
| Primary Output | Legal Filings | Risk Reports and Policies |
| Agency Goal | Case Resolution | Operational Integrity |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $173,083 to $292,300 annually. As a federal employee, you will receive standard benefits, including comprehensive health insurance, federal retirement programs, and a strong emphasis on work-life balance.
Application Tips
- Follow Instructions: Resumes longer than two pages are automatically disqualified. Keep it concise.
- Prepare Early: Once the HR team contacts you for an Accomplishment Record, you will only have 3 business days to submit. Having your examples prepared ahead of time is critical.
- Quantify Your Impact: In your narrative, use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method to demonstrate your achievements clearly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I submit my Accomplishment Record with my application? A: No, please wait for the Office of Human Resources to contact you to request these documents.
Q: Is this a remote role? A: This position is based in Boston, Massachusetts, and does not carry a remote designation.
This role is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned attorney to influence the culture of compliance within a major federal agency. If you meet the qualifications, apply before the September 11, 2026, deadline to be considered for this vital position.
Why This Risk And Compliance Attorney Job Matters
Protect market integrity and advance your legal career at the Securities and Exchange Commission as a key leader in risk and compliance.
Risk And Compliance Attorney Job Overview
The Division of Enforcement at the Securities and Exchange Commission is hiring a dedicated Risk and Compliance Attorney in Boston, MA. This pivotal role involves leading the Division’s risk and compliance programs, including the 961 Program and the Management Assurance Program, to ensure operational, legal, and policy risks are effectively identified and mitigated.
Requirements for Risk And Compliance Attorney
- Possess a J.D. or LL.B. degree.
- Maintain active bar membership in good standing in any U.S. state, territory, D.C., or Puerto Rico.
- At least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the SK-14 level, including providing guidance on Federal securities laws and regulations.
- Must meet qualification requirements by the closing date of September 11, 2026.
Preferred Qualifications for Risk And Compliance Attorney
- Expertise in Federal securities law.
- Demonstrated proficiency in legal analysis and technical communication.
- Strong background in program management and policy development.
- Proven critical thinking skills in high-stakes regulatory environments.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options
- ✓Competitive retirement and pension plans
- ✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays
- ✓Professional development and training opportunities
- ✓Opportunities for career growth and advancement within the agency
💡 How to Apply Risk And Compliance Attorney Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Risk And Compliance Attorney Job
- Log in or create an account on USAJOBS.
- Review the full announcement details and prepare your application package.
- Submit your resume (strictly limited to two pages) and complete the online questionnaire.
- Await communication from the Office of Human Resources regarding your eligibility.
- If qualified, submit the required Accomplishment Record within 3 business days of the request.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume does not exceed two pages; longer resumes will be rejected.
- Start drafting your Accomplishment Record responses in advance, as you will have only 3 business days to submit once contacted.
- Focus your narratives on specific situations, the actions you took, and the quantifiable results achieved.
- Verify that your resume clearly reflects the specialized experience required for the SK-16 level.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the page limit for the resume?
The resume must be two pages or fewer. Applications exceeding this length will be deemed ineligible.
Is the Accomplishment Record required immediately?
No, do not submit it with your initial application. The HR office will contact you if you meet the initial qualifications, at which point you will have 3 business days to provide the narrative.
Job from Securities And Exchange Commission
The SEC is a federal agency tasked with protecting investors, maintaining fair and orderly markets, and facilitating capital formation. By joining the Division of Enforcement, you become part of the front line of regulatory action, working alongside the nation's top experts to ensure the integrity of the American financial system.