Become a Supervisory Attorney-Advisor at the U.S. Department of Transportation
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) is currently inviting applications for a high-level Supervisory Attorney-Advisor to join the Office of the Secretary (OST). This position serves as the Deputy Assistant General Counsel for Operations and represents an extraordinary career opportunity for a legal professional looking to influence national policy.
Job Responsibilities
In this senior role, you will:
- Supervise the operational law activities of the Department.
- Provide authoritative legal counsel to senior leadership.
- Draft and review complex legal opinions and policy memoranda.
- Represent the DOT in collaborative meetings with state, tribal, and local government officials.
- Ensure that agency policies are legally sound and administratively efficient.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet the following criteria:
- Education: A J.D. or LL.B. from an ABA-accredited institution.
- Bar Membership: Active status in any U.S. jurisdiction.
- Experience: At least four years of progressively responsible legal work.
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.
Comparison of Expectations
| Feature | Requirement Detail |
|---|---|
| Experience | 4+ years professional legal practice |
| Education | ABA-accredited J.D. or LL.B. |
| Hiring Status | Excepted Service (2-year trial) |
| Salary Range | $169,279 – $197,200 |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary consistent with the GS-15 grade level. Beyond base pay, federal employees enjoy an industry-leading benefits package that includes health insurance, retirement planning, and generous leave accrual.
Application Tips
Since this is an Excepted Service position, the selection process is highly competitive. Ensure your resume is exactly two pages long and provides granular detail regarding your legal accomplishments. Always include your bar membership status and ensure your application is submitted via the official portal well before the deadline.
If you are a seasoned attorney ready to step into a leadership role that balances rigorous legal work with meaningful public impact, the Department of Transportation is the place for you. Apply today to help steer the future of American transportation.
Why This Supervisory Attorney-Advisor Job Matters
Shape the future of national transportation policy as a Supervisory Attorney-Advisor with the Department of Transportation.
Supervisory Attorney-Advisor Job Overview
The Office of the Secretary of Transportation is seeking a highly skilled Supervisory Attorney-Advisor to join our team in Washington, D.C. In this pivotal role, you will serve as the Deputy Assistant General Counsel for Operations, providing expert legal counsel and managerial oversight for the Department's program operations. This is an exceptional opportunity for an experienced legal professional to contribute to national infrastructure and safety while fostering a culture of equity and public service.
Requirements for Supervisory Attorney-Advisor
- Possess a J.D. or LL.B. degree from an ABA-accredited law school.
- Maintain active membership in good standing of the bar of any U.S. State, Territory, or the District of Columbia.
- Minimum of 4 years of progressively responsible professional legal experience.
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Ability to complete a two-year trial period in the Excepted Service.
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Attorney-Advisor
- Demonstrated experience in team leadership and staff management.
- Strong expertise in administrative law and Federal regulations.
- Proven track record in client service and collaborative problem-solving.
- Ability to effectively communicate complex legal concepts to diverse stakeholders.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive Federal health insurance options.
- ✓Generous retirement plans including the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and TSP.
- ✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- ✓Work-life balance initiatives, including potential telework eligibility.
- ✓Professional development and career advancement opportunities.
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Attorney-Advisor Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Attorney-Advisor Job
- Register and create a profile on the USAJobs portal.
- Prepare a resume limited to two pages as per OPM guidance.
- Gather necessary documentation, including bar certification and law school transcripts.
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire.
- Submit your full application package via the link provided on the USAJobs announcement by 11:59 PM EST on September 14, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit.
- Detail your legal experience clearly, including specific dates and hours worked per week.
- Provide documentation of veteran preference if applicable, as it is considered a positive factor.
- Double-check that all required documents are attached before final submission.
- Clearly explain how your professional background aligns with the required competencies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the nature of this position?
This is a permanent, full-time Supervisory Attorney-Advisor position in the Excepted Service within the Department of Transportation.
Is a security clearance required?
A formal security clearance is not required; however, the position requires a moderate-risk background investigation and suitability/fitness adjudication.
Can I work remotely?
The position is located in Washington, D.C. While telework eligibility may be available, the role is not designated as remote.
What is the trial period?
New hires serve a two-year trial period to evaluate performance and professional fitness.
Is veterans' preference applicable?
Yes, the DOT considers veterans' preference as a positive factor in the hiring process for attorney positions.
Job from Office Of The Secretary Of Transportation
The Office of the Secretary (OST) is the heart of American transportation policy. From negotiating international agreements to establishing consumer protections for air travelers, the work done here impacts millions of citizens every day. The DOT is consistently ranked as a premier place to work, defined by its dedication to equity, accountability, and professional growth.