Advance Your Career as a General Attorney with the FTC
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) stands at the forefront of protecting American consumers and ensuring market competition. For legal professionals looking to make a tangible impact on the national economy, the Bureau of Consumer Protection (BCP) in Chicago offers an unparalleled platform. As a General Attorney (Trade Regulation), you will engage in challenging, high-stakes civil litigation that directly serves the public interest.
Job Responsibilities
As an attorney in the Midwest Regional Office, your daily work will be varied and intellectually demanding. Key duties include:
- Investigative Leadership: Determine whether business conduct warrants formal investigation and develop robust legal theories.
- Civil Litigation: Manage all stages of litigation, from discovery and depositions to drafting motions and presenting cases in federal court.
- Settlement Negotiations: Advocate for outcomes that protect the consumer interest, whether through administrative proceedings or court-ordered settlements.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborate with other government agencies, business leaders, and the public to clarify regulatory policy.
Requirements
To be considered for this prestigious role, candidates must meet the following baseline criteria:
- Education: Completion of an LL.B. or J.D. from an accredited law school.
- Bar Membership: Active status in good standing in any U.S. jurisdiction.
- Experience: A history of post-law school legal work. Grade eligibility (GS-12 to GS-15) depends on the specific complexity and duration of your experience.
Grade Comparison Table
| GS Level | Required Post-JD Experience | Focus Areas |
|---|---|---|
| GS-12 | 12 Months | Basic research, drafting, non-complex litigation |
| GS-13 | 24 Months | Moderately complex matters, solid drafting |
| GS-14 | 42 Months | Independent analysis, trial participation, journeyman tasks |
| GS-15 | 60 Months | Expert advocacy, management of complex cases |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive federal salary range of $100,059 to $197,200 annually, depending on experience and the assigned GS level.
Benefits
- Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
- Federal retirement benefits (FERS).
- Generous leave accrual (vacation and sick time).
- Opportunities for professional development and remote work.
Application Tips
- Customize Your Documents: Ensure your resume clearly links your experience to the specific responsibilities listed in the job description.
- Quality Writing Sample: Your writing sample is a critical evaluation tool—choose a piece that demonstrates clear, concise, and persuasive legal analysis.
- Follow Procedures: This role requires application through the specific Bureau of Consumer Protection careers portal rather than a general system.
Serving as a General Attorney with the FTC is a defining career move. If you have the passion for consumer protection and the legal acumen to take on complex federal litigation, we encourage you to apply. Join the FTC today to help build a fairer, more competitive future.
Why This General Attorney (Trade Regulation) Job Matters
Protect American consumers and uphold the integrity of the marketplace as a General Attorney with the Federal Trade Commission’s Bureau of Consumer Protection in Chicago.
General Attorney (Trade Regulation) Job Overview
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is seeking motivated legal professionals to join the Midwest Regional Office in Chicago. As a General Attorney (Trade Regulation), you will serve on the front lines of consumer protection, investigating and litigating against deceptive, unfair, and fraudulent business practices that impact the digital and traditional economy across a multi-state region. This role offers the unique opportunity to shape federal policy and protect the public interest within an agency renowned for its commitment to competition and consumer welfare.
Requirements for General Attorney (Trade Regulation)
- Possess a professional law degree (LL.B. or J.D.) from an accredited law school.
- Maintain active bar membership in good standing in any U.S. state, D.C., Puerto Rico, or U.S. territory.
- Must be able to provide transcripts and demonstrate professional legal experience post-graduation.
- Demonstrate exceptional legal writing, oral advocacy, and analytical skills.
- Ability to work effectively in a team-based environment and exercise sound judgment.
Preferred Qualifications for General Attorney (Trade Regulation)
- Experience in civil litigation, including managing discovery, depositions, and trial preparation.
- Proven track record in drafting motions, briefs, and complex legal memoranda.
- Experience in investigating business practices and developing legal theories for enforcement.
- Demonstrated ability to negotiate settlements and manage large-scale federal cases.
- Previous experience working on matters of significant national or economic importance.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance and retirement plans (FERS).
- ✓Paid vacation, federal holidays, and sick leave.
- ✓Life insurance and flexible spending accounts.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and career growth.
- ✓Eligible for telework based on agency policy.
- ✓Supportive and collegial work environment focused on public service.
💡 How to Apply General Attorney (Trade Regulation) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for General Attorney (Trade Regulation) Job
- Visit the Bureau of Consumer Protection careers page to review full submission requirements.
- Prepare your resume, detailed cover letter, and a mandatory professional writing sample.
- Obtain unofficial law school transcripts as proof of education.
- Gather veteran documentation or Schedule A certification if applicable.
- Submit all materials directly through the specific Bureau of Consumer Protection portal as directed in the job announcement.
💡 General Tips
- Tailor your resume to highlight experience directly comparable to the GS level you are targeting.
- Ensure your writing sample is your own work and demonstrates complex legal analysis.
- Clearly detail the duration and nature of your post-law school experience to ensure you meet grade requirements.
- Double-check that all required supporting documents are attached before submission.
- If you have veterans' preference, ensure all relevant documentation is included in your application package.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of the Midwest Regional Office?
The MWR office enforces consumer protection laws across several states, investigating and litigating against deceptive practices in the marketplace.
Is this position eligible for telework?
Yes, this position is telework eligible, though specific arrangements depend on current agency policy and supervisor approval.
Does the FTC use a standard rating system for attorney applications?
No. The FTC utilizes an excepted service hiring process where credentials, writing samples, and overall experience are evaluated holistically.
What is the geographic scope of the Chicago office?
The Chicago office serves Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Nebraska, North Dakota, Minnesota, Missouri, South Dakota, and Wisconsin.
Do I need a security clearance?
While a formal security clearance is not required, this position is designated as High Risk and subject to suitability/fitness adjudication.
Job from Federal Trade Commission
The FTC is a century-old, consensus-driven federal agency dedicated to preventing unfair and deceptive business practices. By joining the Bureau of Consumer Protection, you become part of an innovative team that champions consumer rights, encourages competition, and keeps pace with the rapidly evolving digital economy. Whether you are dealing with privacy issues, fraud, or anti-competitive behavior, the work you do here matters.