Advance Your Career as an Attorney Advisor at the USITC
Are you a legal professional with a passion for international trade, policy, and complex litigation? The Office of Commissioner Bart Thanhauser at the U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) is currently seeking an experienced Attorney Advisor to join their team in Washington, D.C. This position offers a unique opportunity to shape trade-remedy law at one of the nation's premier independent agencies.
Job Responsibilities
The Attorney Advisor serves as essential counsel to the Commissioner. Key responsibilities include:
- Legal Analysis: Advising on antidumping and countervailing duty (AD/CVD) matters under Title VII of the Tariff Act of 1930.
- Record Review: Analyzing briefs, hearing materials, staff reports, and other evidentiary records.
- Briefing: Preparing the Commissioner for hearings and votes with concise, high-level written and oral briefings.
- Drafting: Creating Commission opinions, memoranda, and other formal legal documentation.
- Collaboration: Working with economists and legal staff to evaluate the potential impacts of agency decisions on U.S. trade policy.
Comparison Table: Grade Level Requirements
| Level | Required Specialized Experience |
|---|---|
| GS-13 | 3 Years |
| GS-14 | 4 Years |
| GS-15 | 5 Years |
Requirements
To qualify, applicants must hold a J.D. or LL.B from an ABA-accredited law school and maintain active status as a member of the Bar. Candidates must possess significant experience in specialized legal fields, including appellate litigation or federal administrative law. All qualifications must be met by the closing date of the announcement.
Salary Overview
The position offers a competitive salary range of $169,279 to $197,200 annually, commensurate with the level of experience and grade tier selected.
Benefits
Employees enjoy federal health insurance options, retirement benefits, and a focus on wellness. The agency's commitment to the Federal Employee Viewpoint Survey results ensures that the workplace remains adaptive to employee needs.
Application Tips
When applying, focus on quantifying your experience. Ensure your resume clearly details your work in trade law, including case names or types of litigation if applicable. Proof of Bar membership is mandatory, so have your credentials prepared to ensure a smooth onboarding process.
If you are ready to make a significant impact on U.S. trade policy, the USITC offers a challenging and rewarding environment. Apply today to contribute your legal expertise to a world-class team.
Why This Attorney Advisor Job Matters
Shape the future of international trade law as a key advisor in the Office of Commissioner Bart Thanhauser.
Attorney Advisor Job Overview
The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) is seeking a highly skilled Attorney Advisor to provide expert legal analysis and support on complex antidumping and countervailing duty (AD/CVD) matters. This role involves direct collaboration with the Commissioner, offering recommendations on investigations, litigation, and policy determinations that impact U.S. trade-remedy laws. This is a Schedule C appointment, perfect for a legal professional looking to work at the intersection of international policy, law, and economics.
Requirements for Attorney Advisor
- J.D. or LL.B degree from an American Bar Association-accredited law school.
- Current member in good standing of the Bar of any U.S. state, territory, D.C., or Puerto Rico.
- Three to five years of professional legal experience depending on the grade level (GS-13 to GS-15).
- Expertise in areas including appellate litigation, Title VII (AD/CVD), federal administrative law, or trade-remedy statutes.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
- Completion of financial disclosure requirements.
Preferred Qualifications for Attorney Advisor
- Substantive experience with U.S. International Trade Commission investigations and precedents.
- Superior academic achievement in law school.
- Demonstrated ability to synthesize complex records with high attention to detail.
- Exceptional oral and written communication skills suitable for high-level briefings.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary and benefits package.
- ✓Strong work-life balance culture.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development.
- ✓Access to a collaborative and inclusive work environment.
- ✓Eligibility for telework.
💡 How to Apply Attorney Advisor Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Attorney Advisor Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload your resume, transcripts, and proof of Bar membership.
- Submit your application before the closing date of September 11, 2026.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Clearly highlight your specific experience with Title VII or trade-remedy law in your resume.
- Ensure your resume includes dates of employment (month/year), hours worked per week, and salary history.
- Do not include personal information like photos on your resume.
- Verify your Bar standing status early to avoid delays if selected for an offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Schedule C appointment?
A Schedule C position is an excepted service appointment involving a confidential or policy-determining relationship with a supervisor. Incumbents do not have permanent civil service status and can be separated if the relationship ends.
Is telework available for this position?
Yes, this position is eligible for telework, supporting the agency's commitment to work-life balance.
Do I need a security clearance?
Yes, this position requires a Secret level security clearance, which will be initiated upon hiring.
Is this a permanent civil service position?
No, this is a Schedule C appointment in the excepted service.
Does this role require travel?
Yes, there may be instances requiring travel as part of the agency's mission.
Job from U.S. International Trade Commission
The USITC is a mission-driven federal agency known for its high-quality analysis of international trade, tariff, and competitiveness issues. Consistently ranked as one of the best small agencies to work for in the federal government, the USITC fosters an inclusive environment that prizes employee engagement. Staff members enjoy a supportive culture with a strong emphasis on work-life balance.