Staff Attorney Career Opportunity at the U.S. Court of Federal Claims
The U.S. Court of Federal Claims offers a prestigious opportunity for legal professionals to contribute to the judicial branch. We are currently accepting applications for a Staff Attorney to join the Office of Special Masters (OSM). This role is ideal for those who possess a sharp analytical mind and a passion for complex litigation support.
Job Responsibilities
- Manage dockets for attorney fees and costs.
- Draft decisions and scheduling orders.
- Conduct legal research and analysis.
- Participate in status conferences with counsel.
- Support court events and committees.
Requirements
- JD Degree.
- Valid bar admission.
- Two years of relevant legal experience.
- Clear background investigation.
Salary Overview
| Position Level | Salary Range |
|---|---|
| CL 28-30 | $81,906 - $133,178 |
Benefits
Employees enjoy a robust federal benefits package, including retirement plans, insurance, and flexible spending accounts.
Application Tips
Submit all materials as one PDF and focus your cover letter on how your specific legal background aligns with the OSM mission.
This role is a unique gateway to federal judicial service. If you are an organized and detail-oriented attorney, apply today to join the OSM team.
Why This Staff Attorney Job Matters
Join the Office of Special Masters as a Staff Attorney and play a pivotal role in the adjudication of Vaccine Injury Act claims within the U.S. Court of Federal Claims.
Staff Attorney Job Overview
The U.S. Court of Federal Claims is seeking a dedicated Staff Attorney for its Office of Special Masters (OSM). This role focuses on the Attorney's Fees and Costs group, providing vital support in adjudicating compensation claims under the National Childhood Vaccine Injury Act. This position offers a unique opportunity to engage in high-level legal research, docket management, and judicial support within a specialized federal environment.
Requirements for Staff Attorney
- Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
- Active admission to practice before the highest court of a U.S. State, Territory, Commonwealth, or Possession.
- Minimum of two years of specialized legal experience, including at least one year equivalent to the CL-27 level.
- Demonstrated ability to manage a legal docket, conduct research, and draft high-quality legal memoranda and decisions.
- Must pass a mandatory FBI Fingerprint and Background Investigation.
- Strong organizational, communication, and critical thinking skills.
Preferred Qualifications for Staff Attorney
- At least three years of specialized experience working or practicing in a federal court environment.
- Advanced legal degree or completion of a two-year law clerkship (may substitute for up to two years of specialized experience).
- Expertise in complex legal computations and mathematical analysis for fee applications.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓11 paid federal holidays per year.
- ✓Generous annual leave accrual (13-26 days, scaling with tenure).
- ✓13 days of annual sick leave.
- ✓Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching.
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, vision, life, and long-term care insurance options.
- ✓Flexible Spending Accounts and commuter transit subsidy benefits.
💡 How to Apply Staff Attorney Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Staff Attorney Job
- Combine all required documents (Cover Letter, Resume, Form AO78, References, Salary History, and military/federal records if applicable) into one single PDF file.
- Include the specific Job Title and Announcement Number in the email subject line.
- Email the PDF package to the designated recruitment email address before the closing date.
- Wait for contact from the Court; only those selected for interviews will be notified.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly highlights your experience with fee applications or federal court procedures.
- Double-check that all required documentation is merged into one PDF to prevent disqualification.
- Address your specific qualifications for this role in your cover letter rather than using a generic template.
- Avoid contacting the office via phone to check on your status; the court will reach out if they are interested in an interview.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Office of Special Masters?
It is a specialized branch of the U.S. Court of Federal Claims that adjudicates claims filed under the National Childhood Vaccine Injury Act.
Is this a permanent career position?
This is an 'Excepted Appointment' and an 'At Will' position. Civil service classifications do not apply to this appointment.
Can I submit my application via mail or fax?
No. All applications must be submitted via email as a single PDF. Fax and zip files are not accepted.
How do I submit my application?
Email a single PDF file to the email address provided in the official job link.
Job from U.S. Courts
The Office of Special Masters (OSM) serves under the U.S. Court of Federal Claims. Its primary mission involves adjudicating claims under the National Childhood Vaccine Injury Act. The staff works closely with Special Masters to provide justice to claimants efficiently and professionally.