Advance Your Career: Attorney-Adviser Opportunities at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Are you a legal professional looking to pivot your career toward high-impact public service? The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Office of General Counsel (OGC), is currently seeking talented attorneys to fill Attorney-Adviser roles across various locations in the United States. This is a rare opportunity to contribute to the legal framework that safeguards the health and well-being of the American people, while also supporting the critical work of the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR).
Job Responsibilities
As an Attorney-Adviser, your daily life will involve more than just drafting briefs. You will:
- Conduct Legal Research: Analyze complex case law, statutes, and administrative precedents.
- Provide Counsel: Offer authoritative guidance to program officials regarding immigration matters, including the care and custody of unaccompanied children.
- Draft Legal Documents: Prepare memoranda, policy guidance, and litigation documents for administrative proceedings.
- Coordinate: Collaborate with the Department of Justice and internal leadership to advance agency goals.
| Level | Experience Required | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| GS-11 | J.D. + Bar Membership | Foundational Research |
| GS-12 | 1 Year Post-Bar Exp | Case Management |
| GS-13 | 2 Years Post-Bar Exp | Complex Legal Guidance |
| GS-14 | 3 Years Post-Bar Exp | Senior Policy Analysis |
Requirements
Candidates must possess a Juris Doctorate (J.D.) or LL.B from an ABA-accredited institution and maintain an active license to practice law in any U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants will be assessed on core competencies including legal research, written communication, stress tolerance, and decision-making.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range of $63,795 to $139,684 per year, depending on the grade level (GS-11 to GS-14) and the specific location of the position.
Benefits
Working for the federal government provides a robust suite of benefits, including:
- Comprehensive Health: Extensive options for health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Retirement: Participation in FERS, including a Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) that functions similarly to a 401(k).
- Work-Life Balance: Generous annual and sick leave policies, plus paid federal holidays.
Application Tips
To maximize your chances of success, ensure your resume is concise (max 2 pages) and clearly highlights how your past work aligns with the duties described. Utilize the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure no vital information is omitted. When describing your experience, always include the number of hours worked per week for part-time positions.
If you are ready to combine your legal expertise with a mission to help others, the HHS Attorney-Adviser position is the perfect next step. Apply today to contribute to a legacy of health, safety, and justice.
Why This Attorney- Adviser (General) Job Matters
Shape the future of public health policy and advocate for the vulnerable as an Attorney-Adviser with the Department of Health and Human Services.
Attorney- Adviser (General) Job Overview
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of General Counsel is seeking dedicated legal professionals to serve as Attorney-Advisers across multiple major U.S. cities. This role involves providing high-level legal counsel on critical national issues and supporting the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) in its mission to protect and provide services to unaccompanied children and refugees. This is an open continuous announcement for positions ranging from GS-11 to GS-14, offering a path to meaningful public service with a significant impact on national policy and human rights.
Requirements for Attorney- Adviser (General)
- Juris Doctorate (J.D.) or Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) from an ABA-accredited law school.
- Current, active bar membership in good standing in any U.S. State, District of Columbia, or territory.
- Valid license to practice law maintained as a condition of employment.
- Ability to pass a suitability/security background investigation.
- Successful completion of a USA Hire technical assessment.
- Submission of a resume not exceeding two pages in length.
Preferred Qualifications for Attorney- Adviser (General)
- One year of professional legal experience post-bar admission for GS-12.
- Two years of professional legal experience post-bar admission for GS-13.
- Three years of professional legal experience post-bar admission for GS-14.
- Demonstrated experience in immigration law or complex administrative litigation.
- Proven track record of providing legal research and policy guidance to government stakeholders.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive Federal health, dental, and vision insurance.
- ✓Life insurance coverage.
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching contributions.
- ✓Paid federal holidays, annual leave, and sick leave.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
- ✓Telework eligibility as determined by agency policy.
💡 How to Apply Attorney- Adviser (General) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Attorney- Adviser (General) Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Build or update your federal resume, ensuring it is no more than two pages.
- Submit your application and complete the required occupational questionnaire.
- Follow email instructions to complete the mandatory USA Hire technical assessment.
- Monitor your application status through the USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all required information is included.
- Be specific with dates (MM/YY) and hours worked per week to ensure your experience is fully credited.
- Do not copy/paste duty descriptions from the announcement into your resume.
- Ensure all supporting documents, such as bar admission proof and transcripts, are ready prior to selection.
- Set aside at least 3 hours for the USA Hire assessment once invited.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an open continuous announcement?
It means the agency accepts applications throughout the year. Applications are reviewed in batches, typically every two weeks, based on established cut-off dates.
Can I work remotely?
The position is telework-eligible, but it is not classified as a fully remote position. You will be expected to report to your designated duty station.
Is a security clearance required?
Yes, all selectees must undergo a suitability and fitness background investigation.
How often are applications reviewed?
This is an open continuous announcement. Applications are processed in batches every two weeks.
Is drug testing required?
While illegal drug use is prohibited, this specific position does not require a pre-employment drug screening, though it is subject to reasonable suspicion testing.
Job from Office Of The Secretary Of Health And Human Services
The Office of the General Counsel serves as the legal engine of HHS. Our attorneys provide high-quality representation and legal strategy on national issues, ensuring that the Department's programs—from public health to refugee support—are implemented with legal precision and compliance. By joining our team, you become a guardian of public policy, assisting the Secretary of HHS in navigating complex administrative and statutory landscapes.