Advance Your Legal Career with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission
The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) is currently seeking a dedicated and analytical Attorney to serve in the Office of Commission Appellate Adjudication in Rockville, Maryland. This position offers a unique opportunity to apply your legal expertise to the vital mission of nuclear safety, ensuring that industrial, medical, and research applications of nuclear materials remain safe for the American public.
Job Responsibilities
As an Attorney for the NRC, you will engage in high-level legal work. Your core responsibilities include:
- Legal Analysis: Interpreting the Atomic Energy Act, National Environmental Policy Act, and the Administrative Procedure Act.
- Adjudication Support: Drafting memoranda and orders for the Commission to assist in quasi-judicial decision-making.
- Compliance: Performing legal sufficiency reviews for EEOC documents.
- Communication: Representing the office in high-level meetings with Commissioners and agency staff.
Requirements
To succeed in this role, candidates must meet stringent professional standards:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Education | J.D. or LL.M. degree from an accredited institution |
| Bar Status | Active member of the bar in any jurisdiction |
| Experience | One year of specialized administrative law experience |
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. citizen |
Salary Overview
The position offers a competitive salary range of $143,193 to $187,093 per year, commensurate with qualifications and federal pay standards.
Benefits
The NRC provides a robust federal benefits package, including health insurance, retirement savings via the Thrift Savings Plan, paid leave, and transit subsidies.
Application Tips
Ensure your resume is limited to two pages and focuses on results-oriented achievements. Always include official transcripts and a 10-page legal writing sample. Double-check your application for completeness before submitting it through the USAJOBS portal.
This role is an excellent fit for attorneys who want to transition their legal career into the federal sector, specifically in an environment where law directly influences public safety. Prepare your application thoroughly and take the next step in your career with the NRC.
Why This Attorney Job Matters
Shape the future of nuclear safety as an Attorney with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. Provide high-level legal counsel that protects the public interest.
Attorney Job Overview
The Office of Commission Appellate Adjudication at the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) is seeking a qualified Attorney to join their team in Rockville, Maryland. This role is central to the NRC's mission of safeguarding the public and the environment. You will be tasked with interpreting complex statutes, supporting quasi-judicial functions, and performing legal sufficiency reviews to ensure agency compliance.
Requirements for Attorney
- U.S. Citizenship
- J.D. or LL.M. degree from an accredited institution
- Active member of the bar in good standing in any jurisdiction
- Minimum of one year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level
- Pass a pre-employment drug test
- Meet and maintain security and suitability requirements
- Willingness to serve a 1 or 2-year trial period
Preferred Qualifications for Attorney
- Strong understanding of administrative law
- Experience in EEOC legal sufficiency reviews
- Demonstrated proficiency in drafting legal memoranda, briefs, and opinions
- Ability to interpret Federal laws, statutes, and regulations regarding adjudications
- Excellent oral and written communication skills
- Proven ability to maintain effective working relationships with multi-disciplinary teams
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance plans
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style retirement)
- ✓Flexible Spending Accounts
- ✓Dental and vision insurance
- ✓Generous annual and sick leave accrual
- ✓11 paid federal holidays
- ✓Transit benefits
- ✓Situational telework opportunities
💡 How to Apply Attorney Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Attorney Job
- Read the full job announcement carefully.
- Prepare your resume, limited to 2 pages.
- Collect unofficial or official transcripts for all degrees.
- Write a legal writing sample (max 10 pages).
- Create or update your USAJOBS account.
- Submit your application and required documents via the online portal.
- Complete the mandatory vacancy questionnaire.
💡 General Tips
- Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all required fields are included.
- Be specific about your hours worked per week and dates of employment.
- Ensure your writing sample is entirely your own work.
- Check your application status regularly through the portal.
- Submit your application well before the deadline to avoid technical issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is telework allowed for this position?
Yes, this position may be eligible for situational telework in accordance with agency policy.
What is the security clearance requirement?
This role requires 'L' Access Authorization. A background investigation leading to a clearance is required.
Job from Nuclear Regulatory Commission
The NRC is an independent federal agency tasked with regulating nuclear energy to protect public health and the environment. The agency operates with a commitment to excellence, integrity, and safety. By joining the NRC, you become part of a professional community comprising experts from science, engineering, and law, all working toward a common goal of national safety.