Become a Paralegal Specialist with the DOJ Environmental Enforcement Section

Are you looking to take the next step in your legal career while making a tangible difference in public health and environmental protection? The Department of Justice (DOJ) is seeking a dedicated Paralegal Specialist to join the Energy and Natural Resources Division (ENRD). This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to significant civil litigation aimed at cleaning up contaminated lands and protecting waterways across the United States.

Job Responsibilities

As a Paralegal Specialist, your contributions will be central to the success of our legal teams. You will handle a diverse range of tasks, including:

Conducting complex legal research using Westlaw, PACER, and Lexis-Nexis.
Managing e-discovery processes, including identifying, collecting, and organizing documents.
Performing rigorous cite checks and proofreading briefs to ensure compliance with court rules.
Assisting attorneys during hearings and trials with logistics, exhibit preparation, and travel coordination.
Maintaining docketing systems and internal databases for case tracking.

Requirements

To be eligible for this position, candidates must meet specific federal qualification standards.

Grade Level	Education/Experience Requirements
GS-7	Bachelor's degree + Superior Academic Achievement OR 1 year of specialized experience.
GS-9	Master's degree/JD OR 1 year of specialized experience at the GS-7 level.

All candidates must demonstrate a high degree of attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining legal databases. Applicants must also be U.S. citizens and able to undergo a background investigation.

Salary Overview

Salaries for this position are set according to the General Schedule (GS) pay scale, adjusted for location:

Denver, CO: GS-7 ($56,262 - $73,142) | GS-9 ($68,819 - $89,470)
Washington, D.C.: GS-7 ($57,736 - $75,059) | GS-9 ($70,623 - $91,815)

Benefits

The DOJ offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your work-life balance and long-term security. Benefits include participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS), competitive health and life insurance options, and generous leave policies covering vacation, sick time, and federal holidays.

Application Tips

To stand out during the review process, ensure your resume is concise and explicitly outlines your experience with litigation software and document management. Use the specific duties mentioned in the announcement to describe your past achievements, and always ensure your application package is submitted before the designated cut-off dates.

If you are ready to apply your paralegal skills in a challenging, mission-driven environment, the Department of Justice invites you to apply. This role provides more than just a paycheck; it offers the chance to safeguard our nation's resources for future generations.

Why This Paralegal Specialist - Environmental Enforcement Section Job Matters

Launch your career with the Department of Justice! The Environmental Enforcement Section is seeking a detail-oriented Paralegal Specialist to join our mission in protecting public health and the environment through impactful civil litigation.

Paralegal Specialist - Environmental Enforcement Section Job Overview

As a Paralegal Specialist within the Environmental Enforcement Section of the Department of Justice, you will play a vital role in supporting attorneys during complex civil judicial actions. From managing e-discovery to assisting with high-stakes trials, you will contribute directly to the enforcement of federal environmental laws. This position offers a unique opportunity to work in a dynamic legal environment in either Denver, CO, or Washington, D.C.

Requirements for Paralegal Specialist - Environmental Enforcement Section

U.S. Citizenship
Minimum one year of specialized experience at the GS-5 level (for GS-7 applicants) or GS-7 level (for GS-9 applicants) providing litigation support.
Superior Academic Achievement (GPA 3.0+ or upper third of graduating class) or graduate-level education (for GS-7).
Master's degree, JD/LL.B, or two years of progressively higher-level graduate education (for GS-9).
Must pass a drug screening.
Must be able to maintain a Moderate Risk security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications for Paralegal Specialist - Environmental Enforcement Section

Advanced proficiency in litigation software and databases such as Westlaw, PACER, and Lexis-Nexis.
Proven experience in e-discovery and managing large volumes of case materials.
Expertise in legal citation formatting per The Bluebook.
Strong organizational skills for managing complex court filing deadlines.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive health and life insurance programs.
✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
✓Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
✓Access to agency-specific amenities, including on-site gyms and modern office workspaces.
✓Professional development and career advancement opportunities.

💡 How to Apply Paralegal Specialist - Environmental Enforcement Section Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Paralegal Specialist - Environmental Enforcement Section Job

Review the full vacancy announcement carefully.
Prepare a detailed resume (maximum two pages) highlighting specific duties and dates.
Submit your application through the online portal, including your resume and required transcripts.
Complete the required online assessment when prompted.
Monitor your email for status updates and follow-up requests.

💡 General Tips

Tailor your resume to reflect the specific keywords found in the job duties.
Include month and year for all employment history to ensure your experience is credited.
Complete the online assessments as soon as possible after invitation to avoid missing deadlines.
Ensure your transcript clearly lists degrees, course names, and GPA.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply if I do not have a law degree?

Yes. While a law degree is one way to qualify, applicants can also qualify through a combination of specialized work experience and undergraduate education.

Are there specific cut-off dates for this role?

Yes, there are rolling cut-off dates on October 12, October 26, and November 9, 2026. Early application is encouraged.

Is telework available for this position?

This position is not currently listed as telework-eligible.

What is the security level for this job?

The position is classified as a Moderate Risk (MR) role.

Can I use volunteer work to qualify?

Yes, qualified volunteer experience that demonstrates necessary competencies will be credited toward your total experience.

Job from Offices, Boards And Divisions

The Energy and Natural Resources Division (ENRD) is widely recognized as a premier place to work within the federal government. With modern, amenity-rich facilities in both Washington, D.C., and Denver, CO, the Division fosters a professional and collaborative culture. Whether you are working near the NoMA-Gallaudet Metro in D.C. or in the heart of downtown Denver, you will be joining a team committed to excellence, integrity, and the enforcement of vital environmental statutes.