Advance Your Legal Career: Trial Attorney Roles at OPM
The U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) is the human resources department for the federal government, serving as a beacon of talent and excellence. For attorneys dedicated to public service, the Office of the General Counsel (OGC) offers a unique platform to influence the civil service while engaging in high-stakes litigation. We are currently looking for qualified legal professionals to join our team across several locations nationwide.
Job Responsibilities
As a Trial Attorney in the Litigation, Employee & Labor Relations Division, your duties will be diverse and challenging:
- Acting as 'first chair' in litigation before administrative bodies like the MSPB, EEOC, and FLRA.
- Managing all stages of litigation, including drafting motions, conducting discovery, and appearing in hearings.
- Advising agency management on internal personnel, EEO, and labor relations policies.
- Representing OPM's interests in coordination with the Department of Justice.
Requirements
To be considered, candidates must be U.S. Citizens and active members of the Bar.
| Experience Level | Requirement |
|---|---|
| GS-11 | Law school graduate with academic excellence |
| GS-12 | 1+ year of post-JD legal experience |
| GS-13 | 2+ years of progressively responsible experience |
| GS-14 | 3+ years of progressively responsible experience |
| GS-15 | 4+ years of progressively responsible experience |
Salary and Benefits
OPM offers a competitive federal compensation package with annual salary potential ranging from $74,678 to $197,200 depending on location and qualifications. Benefits include health insurance, retirement options via FERS, and generous paid time off.
Application Tips
Your application package must be submitted via email. Remember to format your subject line precisely as requested to ensure your application is processed efficiently. Focus your essays on concrete accomplishments that show how you improve government outcomes.
If you are a dedicated attorney looking to make a meaningful difference, the Office of Personnel Management provides the ideal environment for your professional growth and service to the nation.
Why This Trial Attorney Job Matters
Join the Office of Personnel Management as a Trial Attorney and play a pivotal role in shaping Federal workforce policy and representing the interests of the American government.
Trial Attorney Job Overview
The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) is seeking experienced legal professionals to join the Office of the General Counsel (OGC). As a Trial Attorney, you will serve as lead counsel in significant litigation before the MSPB, EEOC, and FLRA, while providing essential legal advice on sensitive labor and employment matters that impact over 8 million Federal employees and retirees.
Requirements for Trial Attorney
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
- Males born after December 31, 1959, must be registered for Selective Service.
- Must hold a Juris Doctorate (J.D.) from an ABA-accredited law school.
- Must maintain active membership in good standing of a State, territory, or District of Columbia Bar.
- Must be suitable for Federal employment, subject to a background investigation.
- For GS-11: Must meet academic standing requirements (upper third of class) and demonstrate advanced legal academic achievement.
- For GS-12 to GS-15: Must possess 1 to 4 years of progressively responsible post-J.D. legal experience.
Preferred Qualifications for Trial Attorney
- Proven experience as 'first chair' in MSPB, EEO, or Federal personnel litigation.
- Exceptional ability to synthesize facts and law under compressed deadlines.
- Strong skills in independent research, oral advocacy, and written communication.
- Demonstrated ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Experience in building collaborative relationships across diverse internal and external stakeholders.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive Federal Health Insurance programs.
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style investment options).
- ✓Flexible spending accounts and long-term care insurance.
- ✓Generous leave policies including annual, sick, and federal holidays.
- ✓Work-life balance initiatives including telework eligibility.
💡 How to Apply Trial Attorney Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Trial Attorney Job
- Prepare a resume (max 2 pages) including your bar number and issuing state.
- Gather necessary documentation: law school transcripts (for GS-11) and performance appraisals (for current federal employees).
- Draft responses to the optional merit hiring essay questions (do not use AI).
- Email your complete application package to [email protected].
- Ensure your email subject line follows the specific format: [Last Name], [Announcement Number], [GS Level].
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume is concise and adheres strictly to the two-page limit.
- Double-check that your bar membership status is current and clearly stated.
- When writing your merit essays, focus on specific, real-world examples that demonstrate your alignment with OPM's mission.
- Do not use AI tools for your application essays, as this is strictly prohibited and disqualifying.
- Submit your application well before the deadline to avoid technical issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there specific requirements for the merit hiring essays?
Yes, they are optional but highly recommended. They must be your own original work; the use of AI tools to generate these responses is strictly prohibited.
Is a security clearance required?
While this position is designated as Moderate Risk (MR), a formal security clearance is not required; however, you must undergo a suitability/fitness background investigation.
Can I apply for multiple GS levels?
Yes, you may apply for the levels for which you are qualified. Ensure you indicate all relevant levels in your email subject line as instructed.
Job from Office Of Personnel Management
OPM is committed to creating a vision of work that empowers federal agencies to solve our nation's most pressing challenges. As a Trial Attorney with OPM, you are not just practicing law; you are upholding the Constitution and ensuring the efficiency and integrity of the federal workforce. We pride ourselves on fostering a culture of innovation, leadership, and service.