Become an Antitrust Advocate: Opportunities with the FTC
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) serves as the frontline defender of the American marketplace. By investigating anti-competitive business practices and merger activity, the FTC ensures that the economy remains vibrant and fair for consumers. The newly formed American Competition Enforcement (ACE) Division is currently seeking high-caliber attorneys to support this critical mission in Dallas, Texas, and Seattle, Washington.
Job Responsibilities
As an ACE Division attorney, your work will be diverse and high-impact. Key duties include:
- Leading merger and conduct investigations from preliminary inquiry to final determination.
- Conducting depositions, interviews, and discovery processes.
- Drafting complex legal documents, including motions and administrative complaints.
- Collaborating with state attorneys general and other government stakeholders.
- Representing the agency in trials and appellate proceedings.
Requirements
Success in this role requires a blend of rigorous analytical skills and practical experience. Candidates must be active members of a bar in good standing and possess the relevant years of post-law school experience for their target grade level.
| Grade Level | Experience Required |
|---|---|
| GS-12 | 12 Months |
| GS-13 | 24 Months |
| GS-14 | 42 Months |
| GS-15 | 60 Months |
Salary Overview
Positions are open from the GS-12 to GS-15 levels, with a competitive salary range of $97,307 to $197,200 annually, depending on experience and grade level.
Benefits
- Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB)
- Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
- Paid leave and federal holidays
- Telework opportunities
- Professional growth and mentorship
Application Tips
To stand out, ensure your resume highlights specific litigation achievements. Because this is a competitive legal role, your writing sample should clearly demonstrate your ability to construct persuasive legal arguments. Remember to follow the specific link to the FTC’s career site, as this is the only way to ensure your application is reviewed.
If you are an attorney motivated by public service and complex litigation, the ACE Division of the FTC offers a unique platform to influence the future of U.S. markets.
Why This General Attorney (Tr) (Antitrust Law Enforcement) Job Matters
Shape the future of market competition by joining the FTC's newest division, where high-stakes litigation meets national economic impact.
General Attorney (Tr) (Antitrust Law Enforcement) Job Overview
The Federal Trade Commission's (FTC) American Competition Enforcement (ACE) Division is seeking talented attorneys to join their team in Dallas, TX, or Seattle, WA. As a General Attorney, you will play a critical role in investigating and litigating merger and conduct matters, fostering a fair marketplace, and strengthening collaborative efforts with state attorneys general.
Requirements for General Attorney (Tr) (Antitrust Law Enforcement)
- Possess a J.D. or LL.B. degree from an accredited law school.
- Active member in good standing of a state, D.C., Puerto Rico, or U.S. territory bar.
- Excellent legal writing, research, and oral advocacy skills.
- Minimum of 12 months post-law school legal experience for GS-12.
- Minimum of 24 months post-law school legal experience for GS-13.
- Minimum of 42 months post-law school legal experience for GS-14.
- Minimum of 60 months post-law school legal experience for GS-15.
- Ability to work effectively in a team-based, non-hierarchical environment.
Preferred Qualifications for General Attorney (Tr) (Antitrust Law Enforcement)
- Proven track record in managing complex litigation or investigations.
- Strong business acumen with the ability to analyze market dynamics and economic frameworks.
- Demonstrated ability to negotiate settlements independently.
- Experience in identifying and developing novel legal theories for enforcement.
- Expertise in drafting and reviewing motions, subpoenas, and administrative complaints.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance and retirement plans.
- ✓Flexible telework options for eligible positions.
- ✓Access to ongoing professional development and training.
- ✓Opportunities for significant impact on national competition policy.
- ✓Collaborative and collegial work environment.
💡 How to Apply General Attorney (Tr) (Antitrust Law Enforcement) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for General Attorney (Tr) (Antitrust Law Enforcement) Job
- Review the specific instructions on the FTC Bureau of Competition Legal Careers website.
- Prepare your resume, cover letter, and legal writing sample.
- Collect necessary supporting documents, including bar membership verification and transcripts.
- Ensure any veterans' preference or disability documentation is included if applicable.
- Submit your application package exclusively through the instructions provided on the FTC careers site.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly details dates of employment and average hours worked per week.
- Tailor your writing sample to showcase your ability to synthesize complex legal issues.
- Even if not required, veterans are encouraged to include documentation to support their preference status.
- Double-check that all transcripts are attached; unofficial copies are acceptable for the initial application.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply via USAJobs directly?
No. Although this notice appears on USAJobs, you must visit the FTC Bureau of Competition Legal Careers webpage to follow the specific application instructions provided there.
Is travel required for this position?
Yes, the role may require travel as part of investigations, trials, and inter-agency coordination.
What level of security clearance is required?
While a formal clearance is not explicitly required, the position is designated as High Risk (HR) and requires a suitability/fitness adjudication.
What are the primary locations?
Positions are available in Dallas, TX, and Seattle, WA.
Is there a possibility for telework?
Yes, the position is eligible for telework arrangements.
Job from Federal Trade Commission
The FTC is a bipartisan agency committed to protecting consumers and promoting market competition. With over a century of experience, the agency employs a consensus-driven approach to address novel and complex legal issues. Joining the ACE Division means becoming part of a forward-thinking team dedicated to innovation and economic justice.