Launch Your Legal Career with the Securities and Exchange Commission
Are you a legal professional passionate about financial integrity and investor protection? The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is seeking an Attorney-Adviser to join its Division of Examinations. This role is a fantastic opportunity for early-career attorneys to work at the intersection of law, finance, and public service.
Job Responsibilities
You will be tasked with participating in on-site and correspondence examinations of broker-dealers and investment advisers. Your duties will include:
- Conducting deep-dive legal and regulatory analysis.
- Reviewing customer trading data and firm marketing materials.
- Collaborating with multi-disciplinary teams to develop inspection procedures.
- Drafting comprehensive reports and memoranda for senior staff.
- Providing technical assistance on complex policy and legal questions.
Requirements & Qualifications
To qualify for this position, applicants must meet the following baseline standards:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Education | J.D. or LL.B. degree from an accredited institution |
| Bar Membership | Active membership in any U.S. jurisdiction |
| Experience | Varies by grade (SK-11/12) |
| Documents | Unofficial transcripts required |
Salary and Benefits
The SEC offers a competitive compensation package that accounts for locality-based pay. While the total salary ranges from $86,471 to $207,573 annually, final pay is determined based on the specific duty location and the candidate's professional background. Beyond the salary, employees receive standard federal benefits including health insurance, retirement options, and generous paid time off.
Application Tips for Success
- Respect the Resume Limit: Your resume cannot exceed two pages. Resumes longer than this will be automatically disqualified.
- Prepare for the Accomplishment Record: While you don't submit this at the start, you will have only 3 days to provide it if requested. Keep your examples of competency (Examwork, Program Analysis, etc.) ready to go.
- Submission Cutoffs: Do not wait for the final closing date of November 30. Use the interim cutoff dates in October and November to ensure your application is among the first to be reviewed.
Is remote work available?
This position is not listed as remote-eligible. Please ensure you are willing to work from one of the designated duty locations.
Working for the SEC is a career-defining move that allows you to contribute to the stability of the American financial system. With multiple locations nationwide and a clear path for advancement, this role is perfect for legal professionals ready to take the next step. Ensure your documentation is prepared and apply today to become a part of the SEC team.
Why This Attorney-Adviser Job Matters
Advance your legal career with the SEC: Help protect investors and ensure market integrity as an Attorney-Adviser in the Division of Examinations.
Attorney-Adviser Job Overview
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is hiring an Attorney-Adviser within the Division of Examinations. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the agency’s core mission of investor protection, fraud prevention, and capital market monitoring. You will join a high-impact team, collaborating with financial experts and legal professionals to assess registered entities and ensure compliance with federal securities laws. The position is available in various major metropolitan areas across the United States.
Requirements for Attorney-Adviser
- J.D. or LL.B. degree from an accredited institution.
- Active bar membership in good standing in any U.S. state, territory, D.C., or Puerto Rico.
- Submission of an unofficial transcript by the announcement closing date.
- Ability to provide professional accomplishment records within 3 business days of request.
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
Preferred Qualifications for Attorney-Adviser
- One year of post-J.D. legal experience in research, drafting, or regulatory analysis.
- Judicial clerkship experience.
- Membership on a law school journal or law review.
- Top 33 percent class ranking.
- Prior experience with FINRA or other financial regulatory authorities.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with locality adjustments.
- ✓Comprehensive health, vision, and dental insurance plans.
- ✓Federal retirement benefits, including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- ✓Generous paid annual leave, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and exposure to industry experts.
💡 How to Apply Attorney-Adviser Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Attorney-Adviser Job
- Create a profile on USAJOBS and ensure your resume is limited to two pages.
- Complete the online application questionnaire through the provided portal.
- Upload required documents, including unofficial transcripts and proof of bar membership.
- Submit your full application package before the specified cutoff dates (October 14, November 5, or November 30).
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS portal for evaluation updates.
💡 General Tips
- Prepare your Accomplishment Record in advance, focusing on specific situations, actions, and results.
- Adhere strictly to the two-page limit for your resume to avoid disqualification.
- Proofread your application documents to ensure all academic and legal credentials are clearly documented.
- Keep a copy of your application status confirmation for your records.
- Review the specific competencies listed in the job description to tailor your narrative.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the cutoff dates for this position?
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis with cutoff dates on October 14, November 5, and November 30.
Is a formal Accomplishment Record required immediately?
No. If you meet the minimum qualifications, the HR office will contact you to request an Accomplishment Record, which must be submitted within 3 business days.
Can I apply if I am currently in law school?
No, you must possess a J.D. or LL.B. degree and active bar membership to be eligible for this position.
Job from Securities And Exchange Commission
The SEC is an independent federal regulatory agency tasked with protecting investors, maintaining fair and orderly markets, and facilitating capital formation. Within this agency, the Division of Examinations plays a critical role in conducting risk-focused reviews of registered entities. As an Attorney-Adviser, you will be part of a team dedicated to detecting fraud and ensuring that firms comply with the complex web of federal securities laws.