Become a Deputy General Counsel at the Federal Maritime Commission
The Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) is looking for an experienced legal executive to join its leadership team as a Deputy General Counsel. This role offers the unique chance to shape the regulatory landscape of the U.S. international ocean transportation system. If you are a seasoned attorney with a commitment to the rule of law and a track record of driving organizational excellence, this Senior Executive Service (SES) appointment is an exceptional opportunity to serve.
Job Responsibilities
As the Deputy General Counsel, you will work closely with the General Counsel to define the agency's legal agenda. Your primary duties will include:
- Legal and Policy Strategy: Providing counsel to the Chairman and Commissioners on complex Shipping Act matters.
- Litigation Management: Overseeing the agency's representation in federal district and circuit courts.
- Economic Oversight: Directing the economic analysis of antitrust-exempt agreements and carrier charges.
- Diplomatic Liaison: Representing the commission in negotiations with foreign governments, Congress, and domestic agencies like the Department of State.
- Operational Leadership: Supervising the daily operations of the Office of the General Counsel to ensure efficiency and high-quality output.
Requirements
This position demands a high level of expertise and professional standing. Key requirements include:
- Professional Degree: A JD or LLB from an ABA-accredited school.
- Bar Membership: Active, good-standing status in a U.S. jurisdiction.
- Executive Core Qualifications: Proven capability in leading people, driving results, and managing budgets.
- Clearance: Ability to obtain a Top-Secret security clearance.
- Compliance: Successful completion of drug testing and financial disclosure reports.
Salary Overview
This position is compensated at the Senior Executive Service level.
| Pay Period | Range |
|---|---|
| Annual Salary | $151,661 – $228,000 |
Benefits
Employees of the FMC enjoy the robust benefits afforded to federal civil servants. This includes competitive health insurance options, life insurance, a generous retirement program (FERS), and the potential for a flexible work-life balance through telework arrangements.
Comparison of Qualifications
| Qualification Type | Focus Area |
|---|---|
| Technical (MTQ) | Legal office management and regulatory enforcement. |
| Executive (ECQ) | Leadership, efficiency, and constitutional commitment. |
Application Tips
- Focus Your Resume: You only have two pages. Make every sentence count by using the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method to demonstrate your accomplishments.
- Align with ECQs: Explicitly address the five core executive competencies within your resume text.
- Transcripts: Don't wait until the last minute. Gather your law school and college transcripts early.
- Proofread: As an attorney, your attention to detail is under the microscope. Ensure your submission is professional and error-free.
Serving as a Deputy General Counsel at the Federal Maritime Commission is a chance to leave a lasting mark on U.S. maritime trade. If you possess the legal acumen and the executive leadership skills to drive results in a high-pressure environment, apply today.
Why This Deputy General Counsel Job Matters
Shape the future of international maritime commerce as a Deputy General Counsel in the Senior Executive Service.
Deputy General Counsel Job Overview
The Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) is seeking a visionary legal leader to serve as Deputy General Counsel. This high-level position offers the unique opportunity to influence the regulation of U.S. international ocean transportation, balancing competition oversight with strategic policy guidance. As a key executive, you will help navigate complex legal, economic, and diplomatic challenges while ensuring the efficiency and integrity of America's maritime shipping infrastructure.
Requirements for Deputy General Counsel
- U.S. Citizenship or National status
- Professional law degree (JD or LLB) from an ABA-accredited law school
- Active, good-standing bar membership in a U.S. jurisdiction, Puerto Rico, or the District of Columbia
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Top-Secret security clearance
- Must pass a pre-employment drug test and remain subject to random testing
- Submission of a maximum 2-page resume
- Commitment to the rule of law and American constitutional principles
Preferred Qualifications for Deputy General Counsel
- Executive-level experience in managing legal, economic, or policy operations within a federal, state, or private legal environment
- Proven background in regulatory enforcement and strategic operational execution
- Expertise in antitrust-exempt agreements or maritime economic analysis
- Demonstrated ability to lead high-performance teams and foster an environment of accountability
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Senior Executive Service (SES) salary range
- ✓Opportunity to influence national maritime policy
- ✓Professional growth within a federal oversight agency
- ✓Comprehensive federal benefits package
- ✓Eligibility for telework options
💡 How to Apply Deputy General Counsel Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Deputy General Counsel Job
- Prepare a resume no longer than two pages.
- Draft a cover letter (maximum 1 page).
- Ensure you have digital copies of your law school and college transcripts.
- Gather proof of active bar membership.
- Log into your USAJOBS account and complete the online assessment.
- Submit all documents via the portal before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- The 2-page limit for your resume is strict; entries exceeding this will not be fully reviewed.
- Address the five Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs) and the two Mandatory Technical Qualifications (MTQs) directly within your resume text.
- Do not use the USAJOBS Resume Builder; upload your own formatted document.
- Double-check that all PDF files are clear and under the page limits.
- Set aside at least three hours if you are required to complete the USA Hire assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to write separate narratives for the ECQs?
No. The FMC requires that you embed your accomplishments directly into your 2-page resume. Separate narrative statements will not be reviewed.
What happens if I exceed the 2-page resume limit?
Your application may be disqualified, or the reviewer may stop reading exactly at the end of the second page, potentially missing vital qualifications.
Is a security clearance required?
Yes, you must be able to obtain and maintain a Top-Secret security clearance to fulfill the duties of this role.
Do I need a security clearance to apply?
You do not need to have a clearance already, but you must be able to obtain and maintain a Top-Secret clearance if selected.
Can I use the USAJOBS Resume Builder?
No, the agency explicitly requests that you submit your own custom-formatted resume.
Job from Federal Maritime Commission
The FMC is an independent federal agency tasked with ensuring a competitive and reliable international shipping market. The agency safeguards the U.S. economy by protecting importers, exporters, and consumers from unfair practices. Operating under the Shipping Act, the Office of the General Counsel serves as the legal backbone of the agency, providing expert advice to Commissioners and managing high-stakes litigation.