Become an Attorney-Adviser for the Department of State: Your Guide to a Career in International Ethics
Are you a seasoned attorney looking to transition into a high-impact federal role? The U.S. Department of State is seeking a dedicated Attorney-Adviser to join the Office of the Assistant Legal Adviser for Ethics and Financial Disclosure (L/EFD). This role is critical to maintaining the integrity of our nation’s foreign policy operations.
About the Department of State
The U.S. Department of State is the nation’s lead foreign policy agency. Working here means contributing to the safety, economic prosperity, and diplomatic influence of the United States. Recognized as a Forbes Best Employer, the Department offers a collaborative environment that values innovation, leadership, and professional growth.
Job Responsibilities
As an Attorney-Adviser, your work will be diverse and challenging. You will serve as a legal authority on ethics, ensuring that Department employees navigate federal statutes with transparency. Your core duties will include:
- Ethics Advisory: Providing formal and informal guidance on the Standards of Ethical Conduct for Employees of the Executive Branch.
- Financial Disclosure: Analyzing OGE 278 and 450 reports to mitigate potential conflicts of interest.
- Interagency Policy: Representing the Department in high-level discussions with the Office of Government Ethics (OGE) and other federal partners.
- Legal Drafting: Developing ethics training materials, memoranda, and guidance documents to foster a culture of compliance.
Requirements
To be eligible, candidates must meet the following baseline requirements:
- Education: A J.D. or LL.M. degree from an accredited law school.
- Bar Status: Active membership in good standing in any U.S. state, territory, or D.C. bar.
- Experience: At least four years of specialized experience, including one year at the GS-14 level (or equivalent).
- Clearance: Ability to obtain and hold a Top Secret security clearance.
Salary and Benefits
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $169,279 – $197,200 (Per Year) |
| Job Grade | GS-15 |
| Work Schedule | Full-Time, Excepted Service |
| Clearance | Top Secret |
Beyond competitive pay, employees enjoy comprehensive health benefits, robust retirement options, and a supportive environment that prioritizes work-life balance through situational telework policies.
Application Tips
Your application is your first impression. Follow these guidelines to ensure your submission is considered:
- Resume Precision: Do not exceed two pages. A lengthy resume will result in an automatic rejection.
- Evidence of Skill: Clearly demonstrate your experience with ethics statutes, specifically citing your history with financial disclosure reports.
- File Format: Ensure your documents are compiled into a single, clean PDF.
- Subject Line: Follow the formatting instructions precisely to ensure your email is directed to the correct hiring team.
This position offers an unparalleled opportunity to influence federal ethics policy at the highest levels. If you meet the qualifications and are prepared to serve, we encourage you to submit your application to the Office of the Legal Adviser today.
Why This Attorney Adviser International Job Matters
Protect the integrity of U.S. foreign policy by providing expert legal guidance on ethics and financial disclosure at the Department of State.
Attorney Adviser International Job Overview
The U.S. Department of State is seeking a highly qualified Attorney-Adviser for the Office of the Assistant Legal Adviser for Ethics and Financial Disclosure (L/EFD). This pivotal role involves navigating the complex landscape of federal ethics laws, ensuring that Department employees maintain the highest standards of conduct. You will be responsible for providing critical legal advice to senior officials, adjudicating financial disclosures, and shaping agency policy through interagency collaboration.
Requirements for Attorney Adviser International
- Juris Doctor (J.D.) or LL.M. from an accredited law school.
- Active membership in good standing in any U.S. state, territory, or D.C. bar.
- Minimum of four years of specialized legal experience.
- At least one year of experience equivalent to the GS-14 level in the federal service.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.
- Must successfully pass a mandatory drug screening.
Preferred Qualifications for Attorney Adviser International
- Proven track record in analyzing and adjudicating OGE Form 278 and 450 reports.
- Demonstrated experience in developing and delivering ethics training programs.
- Expertise in drafting formal legal memoranda, briefs, and written ethics opinions.
- Strong negotiation skills for interagency policy discussions.
- Ability to provide actionable advice on post-employment restrictions.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
- ✓Generous retirement plans including the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Paid federal holidays and leave accrual.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
- ✓Flexible work arrangements, including situational telework eligibility.
💡 How to Apply Attorney Adviser International Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Attorney Adviser International Job
- Prepare a two-page maximum resume highlighting relevant legal experience.
- Compile law school transcripts and proof of active bar membership.
- Gather three professional references.
- Submit all required documents in a single PDF file to [email protected].
- Ensure the subject line reads: 'L/EFD Specialist Attorney Position AND the Vacancy Announcement Number'.
💡 General Tips
- Stick strictly to the two-page resume limit; longer resumes will be disqualified.
- Clearly label your dates of service (month/year) and hours worked per week.
- Ensure your PDF is well-organized and clearly named for quick review.
- Highlight experience with OGE forms specifically, as this is a core requirement.
- Double-check your email subject line to ensure it matches the submission instructions exactly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is veterans' preference applicable to this position?
Veterans' preference does not apply to this specific attorney vacancy. However, documentation may be retained for appointment purposes if you are selected.
Will I receive a notification once my application is submitted?
The agency will send notifications at key stages: receipt of application, qualification determination, certificate issuance, and final selection.
Is this a remote position?
This position is located in Washington, D.C. While situational telework may be available with supervisory approval, it is not a fully remote position.
What is the hiring process timeline?
After the closing date, the review process begins. Highly qualified candidates are typically referred within two weeks, though the background investigation can take several months.
Can I use foreign education for this role?
Yes, provided you can prove that the degree is comparable to an accredited U.S. institution via official credential evaluation services.