Launch Your Career as a General Attorney with the Federal Trade Commission
Are you looking to use your legal expertise to protect the public and ensure fair market competition? The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is currently recruiting for General Attorney (Trade Regulation) positions within its Bureau of Consumer Protection at the Southeast Regional office in Atlanta, GA. This is a unique opportunity to participate in high-stakes civil litigation and contribute to the enforcement of laws that impact millions of Americans.
About the Federal Trade Commission
The FTC is an independent federal agency dedicated to protecting consumers and promoting competition. For over a century, the agency has stood as a bulwark against unfair, deceptive, and anticompetitive business practices. By joining the Bureau of Consumer Protection, you become part of a consensus-driven team of experts committed to integrity, innovation, and the advancement of public interest in the modern digital economy.
Job Responsibilities
As a General Attorney, you will play an integral role in the legal enforcement arm of the agency. Key duties include:
- Investigation and Analysis: Determining if consumer protection matters warrant formal investigation and defining legal theories.
- Litigation Management: Handling all aspects of civil litigation, from discovery and motion practice to trial advocacy.
- Strategic Policy: Recommending case resolutions and negotiating settlements to effectively address fraudulent activities.
- Public Engagement: Conferring with various government agencies, business stakeholders, and members of the public regarding Commission policies.
Grade Level Comparison Table
| Grade Level | Post-Law School Experience Required | Scope of Responsibility |
|---|---|---|
| GS-12 | 12 Months | Non-complex litigation, basic research. |
| GS-13 | 24 Months | Moderately complex, novel, or significant matters. |
| GS-14 | 42 Months | Independent planning, drafting, and trial participation. |
| GS-15 | 60 Months | Managing complex major cases and expert-level advocacy. |
Requirements for Success
To be considered for this role, you must hold a J.D. or LL.B. from an accredited institution and maintain active bar membership in good standing in any U.S. jurisdiction. Applicants must showcase excellent writing abilities and strong interpersonal skills. Each grade level demands a specific progression of post-law school experience, focusing on legal research, drafting, and litigation competence.
Benefits of Federal Service
Working for the FTC comes with a robust package of federal benefits, including:
- Comprehensive Healthcare: Competitive health, vision, and dental plans.
- Retirement Security: Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- Work-Life Balance: Telework eligibility and generous paid leave accrual.
- Growth: Ongoing professional development and the prestige of working for a top-tier regulatory agency.
Application Tips
Submitting a standout application is crucial. Ensure your resume clearly outlines your specific legal duties, hours worked, and progression in complexity. Always include a polished writing sample that demonstrates your analytical prowess. Because the FTC utilizes a qualitative review process, emphasize your specific achievements in past investigations or courtroom experiences within your cover letter.
The role of a General Attorney at the FTC is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the public good. If you are a dedicated advocate ready to tackle novel legal challenges in the trade regulation space, we encourage you to apply by the closing date of November 16, 2026. Your contribution will help maintain the fairness and integrity of the American economy.
Why This General Attorney (Trade Regulation) Job Matters
Launch a high-impact legal career defending American consumers with the Federal Trade Commission's Southeast Regional office in Atlanta.
General Attorney (Trade Regulation) Job Overview
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is seeking motivated General Attorneys to join the Bureau of Consumer Protection in Atlanta, GA. In this role, you will be on the front lines of protecting the public from unfair, deceptive, and fraudulent business practices. Attorneys will manage complex investigations, litigate civil actions in federal court, and shape the policies that ensure a fair and competitive marketplace for consumers across seven Southern states.
Requirements for General Attorney (Trade Regulation)
- Possession of a Juris Doctor (J.D.) or LL.B. degree from an accredited law school.
- Current active membership in good standing with the bar of any U.S. state, territory, D.C., or Puerto Rico.
- Proven excellence in professional legal writing.
- Ability to work collaboratively, exercise independent judgment, and demonstrate commitment to the agency's mission.
- Specific post-law school legal experience requirements ranging from 12 to 60 months depending on the GS grade level (GS-12 to GS-15).
Preferred Qualifications for General Attorney (Trade Regulation)
- Experience managing complex federal civil litigation or administrative proceedings.
- Proven track record of independently planning and executing legal investigations.
- Demonstrated ability to perform high-level legal analysis and draft complex motions, subpoenas, and briefs.
- Experience in trial advocacy, settlement negotiations, and depositions.
- Strong oral communication skills for representing the agency in various settings.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Federal health insurance plans
- âś“Life insurance coverage
- âś“Retirement program (FERS)
- âś“Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent)
- âś“Paid vacation and sick leave
- âś“Telework opportunities
- âś“Professional development and training
đź’ˇ How to Apply General Attorney (Trade Regulation) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for General Attorney (Trade Regulation) Job
- Review the specific application instructions provided on the official Bureau of Consumer Protection Careers website.
- Prepare a comprehensive resume detailing work schedules, hours per week, and dates of employment.
- Draft a professional cover letter and select a high-quality writing sample.
- Compile official or unofficial transcripts (official ones required before final offer).
- Gather supporting documents such as Veterans' Preference proof (e.g., DD-214) or disability certification if applicable.
- Submit your full application package directly through the designated FTC portal as indicated in the job announcement.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly maps your experience to the complexity required for your target GS grade level.
- Highlight specific examples of litigation, research, and analysis in your writing sample.
- Double-check that all required documents (transcripts, cover letter, writing sample) are attached to avoid disqualification.
- If claiming Veterans' Preference, ensure your DD-214 is the Member Copy 4, as this is the standard for verification.
- Visit the official Bureau of Consumer Protection Careers page early to ensure you follow the correct submission pathway.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote position?
No, this position is located in Atlanta, Georgia. However, the role is eligible for telework arrangements.
What grade level should I apply for?
Eligibility is based on years of post-law school legal experience. GS-12 requires 12 months, GS-13 requires 24 months, GS-14 requires 42 months, and GS-15 requires 60 months.
How is the application evaluated?
The FTC uses a merit-based evaluation of your submitted credentials—including your resume, cover letter, and writing sample—rather than a traditional numerical ranking system.