Lead Attorney (Antitrust) - Federal Trade Commission
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is currently seeking a highly skilled and experienced litigator to join its Bureau of Competition as a Lead Attorney. This position offers a unique opportunity to work on the most complex and significant antitrust cases in the nation. If you are a seasoned legal professional looking to make a lasting impact on the American economy, this role offers the perfect platform to utilize your expertise in high-stakes litigation.
Job Responsibilities
As a Lead Attorney in the Litigation Group, you will:
- Act as lead or senior counsel in federal district court trials.
- Manage all aspects of complex civil discovery, including document production and depositions.
- Develop and execute litigation strategies to challenge anticompetitive mergers and conduct.
- Mentor and train junior staff on best litigation practices.
- Advise agency leadership on viable legal theories and case prospects.
Requirements
To be considered for this GS-15 position, you must:
- Hold a J.D. or LL.B. degree.
- Be a member of a bar in good standing.
- Have 60+ months of post-law school legal experience.
- Demonstrate 18+ months of experience equivalent to GS-14 work.
Comparison Table: Why the FTC?
| Benefit | Private Practice | FTC Bureau of Competition |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Client Profit | Public Interest/Fair Markets |
| Impact | Case-by-Case | Broad Market Influence |
| Environment | Billable Hours | Consensus-Driven Teamwork |
| Flexibility | High Pressure | Telework Eligible |
Salary and Benefits
The salary range for this position is $169,279 to $197,200 annually. Beyond the competitive base salary, the FTC offers a comprehensive federal benefits package, including health insurance, generous leave, and a reliable federal retirement plan.
This role is ideal for an attorney who thrives on complex challenges and has a deep commitment to antitrust enforcement. If you meet the criteria and are ready to advance your career at the federal level, review the official application guidelines on the FTC career portal today.
Why This General Attorney (Tr) (Antitrust Law Enforcement) Job Matters
Join the forefront of antitrust enforcement and shape the future of the American marketplace as a Lead Attorney with the FTC’s Bureau of Competition.
General Attorney (Tr) (Antitrust Law Enforcement) Job Overview
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is seeking an elite, highly experienced attorney to join the Bureau of Competition’s Litigation Group. This GS-15 role is central to the FTC's mission of challenging anti-competitive mergers and business practices in federal district courts. You will lead complex litigation, influence enforcement strategy, and represent the agency in high-stakes cases that protect the integrity of the free market.
Requirements for General Attorney (Tr) (Antitrust Law Enforcement)
- Possess a J.D. or LL.B. degree from an accredited law school.
- Must be an active member in good standing of the bar of any state, D.C., Puerto Rico, or U.S. territory.
- Minimum of 60 months of post-law school legal experience.
- At least 18 months of legal experience at a level comparable to the GS-14 federal grade.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a High Risk (HR) suitability clearance.
Preferred Qualifications for General Attorney (Tr) (Antitrust Law Enforcement)
- Significant experience in complex civil litigation discovery.
- Proven track record of trial experience, including managing direct and cross-examinations.
- Demonstrated expertise in working with expert witnesses and delivering high-level oral advocacy.
- Prior experience in antitrust law or competition-focused litigation.
- Strong leadership capabilities with experience managing legal teams and support staff.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal health, dental, and vision insurance programs.
- ✓Comprehensive federal retirement plans (FERS).
- ✓Generous paid vacation and sick leave policies.
- ✓Flexible telework opportunities.
- ✓Professional development and training support.
- ✓Life insurance and flexible spending accounts.
💡 How to Apply General Attorney (Tr) (Antitrust Law Enforcement) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for General Attorney (Tr) (Antitrust Law Enforcement) Job
- Visit the official FTC Bureau of Competition Legal Careers page.
- Prepare your resume detailing dates of employment, hours worked, and specific duties performed.
- Compile your cover letter, writing sample, and law school transcripts.
- Gather veteran preference documentation (e.g., DD-214) if applicable.
- Follow the specific submission instructions found on the FTC website, as applications are not processed directly through the USAJobs platform.
💡 General Tips
- Highlight your specific experience with federal court trials and discovery management prominently in your resume.
- Ensure your writing sample showcases your ability to distill complex legal theories for a court setting.
- Clearly explain how your previous legal experience meets the 18-month GS-14 equivalency requirement.
- Do not rely on this USAJobs portal for application submission; follow the specific link provided by the FTC for full instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What level of experience is required for this GS-15 position?
Candidates must have at least 60 months of legal experience following graduation from law school, with at least 18 months at a level comparable to the GS-14 federal grade.
Is this a remote position?
The position is located in the District of Columbia and is telework-eligible, though it is not a fully remote role.
Does the FTC accept applications through USAJobs?
No. While this is an informational posting, all applications must be submitted directly through the FTC’s designated Bureau of Competition legal careers website as specified in the instructions.
Job from Federal Trade Commission
The Federal Trade Commission is an independent federal agency tasked with protecting consumers and ensuring that markets remain competitive and fair. The Bureau of Competition is the division responsible for enforcing the nation’s antitrust laws. Through merger reviews and litigation against anticompetitive business practices, the Bureau ensures that innovation flourishes and consumers are not harmed by monopolistic behavior. Joining this team means working in a collegial, mission-driven environment dedicated to the public interest.