Launch Your Legal Career at the USDA: Attorney Advisor (General) Role
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is seeking dedicated and intellectually rigorous legal professionals to join the Office of the General Counsel (OGC). This role offers a unique opportunity to shape the legal framework governing one of the most critical sectors of the American economy. If you are passionate about administrative law, food safety, and public service, this position provides a platform for substantial professional growth.
Job Responsibilities
As an Attorney Advisor, your daily duties will be both complex and rewarding:
- Legal Interpretation: Analyze overlapping federal statutes and executive orders.
- Drafting Authority: Author authoritative legal memoranda that guide agency leadership.
- Regulatory Oversight: Evaluate proposed regulations for legal sufficiency and risk.
- Representation: Participate in administrative and federal litigation processes.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Education: A JD or LLB from an ABA-accredited law school.
- Licensure: Active member in good standing of any U.S. bar.
- Experience: Professional legal experience relevant to the grade level (GS-11 through GS-14).
- Documentation: A two-page resume, legal writing sample, and transcripts.
Salary and Grade Overview
The position is classified under the General Schedule (GS) system with promotion potential up to GS-14.
| Grade Level | Responsibilities | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| GS-11/12 | Legal research and document drafting | Under supervision, case handling |
| GS-13 | Agency program support | Client representation |
| GS-14 | Independent complex legal assignments | Methodology and policy setting |
Salary range: $85,447 to $187,093 per annum.
Benefits
Working for the federal government provides a comprehensive suite of benefits, including:
- Robust health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Generous annual and sick leave accrual.
- Opportunities for career advancement and professional development.
Application Tips
- Strictly follow the page limit: A two-page resume is mandatory. Any submission exceeding this will be rejected.
- Customize your narrative: Ensure your writing sample and cover letter demonstrate your ability to handle complex legal issues.
- Stay alert for cut-offs: Applications are reviewed in monthly cycles; getting your materials in before a cut-off date is essential for timely consideration.
Serving as an Attorney Advisor for the USDA is an impactful way to use your legal skills to serve the public interest. If you meet the qualifications and are ready to tackle complex challenges, submit your application today.
Why This Attorney Advisor (General) Job Matters
Shape the future of American agriculture and food safety policy as an Attorney Advisor for the USDA. Join a mission-driven team where your legal expertise directly impacts the regulatory landscape of the nation's food systems.
Attorney Advisor (General) Job Overview
The USDA Office of the General Counsel (OGC) is seeking skilled Attorney Advisors to provide professional legal services across the Marketing, Regulatory, and Food Safety divisions. This role involves interpreting complex federal statutes, drafting authoritative legal documents, and advising agency leadership on high-stakes regulatory issues. This is an open-continuous announcement for multiple vacancies in Washington, D.C.
Requirements for Attorney Advisor (General)
- Possess a Juris Doctor (JD) or Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree from an ABA-accredited law school.
- Maintain active standing as a member of the bar in any U.S. state, territory, D.C., or the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico.
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a required security clearance (NACI/Credit check for GS-13/14).
- Submit a resume not exceeding two pages.
- Provide a legal writing sample and a cover letter.
- Submit college and law school transcripts.
Preferred Qualifications for Attorney Advisor (General)
- Demonstrated experience in federal or administrative litigation.
- Proficiency in synthesizing complex factual records with legal authorities.
- Experience in drafting opinions, pleadings, and motions for agency programs.
- Strong communication skills for advising senior administrative officials.
- Ability to work independently on complex, high-priority legal assignments.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal retirement plan
- ✓Health and life insurance options
- ✓Paid federal holidays
- ✓Potential for telework eligibility
- ✓Structured career development programs
- ✓Professional growth and promotion potential
💡 How to Apply Attorney Advisor (General) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Attorney Advisor (General) Job
- Log in to your USAJOBS account to prepare your profile.
- Compile your two-page resume, law school transcripts, bar membership proof, and a writing sample.
- Click the 'Apply' button on the official USAJOBS listing to access the assessment questionnaire.
- Upload all required documentation as a PDF, TXT, or Word document (under 5MB).
- Submit the complete application before the nearest monthly cut-off date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume is strictly two pages; exceeding this limit will result in immediate disqualification.
- Highlight specific experience related to federal statutes and administrative law in your work history.
- Turn on email notifications in your USAJOBS profile to track your status.
- Submit early if possible; while this is an open-continuous position, evaluators review applications at monthly cut-offs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the format for the resume?
Resumes must be limited to two pages. SMEs will only review the first two pages, starting from the work experience section.
Is this a remote position?
No, this position is based in Washington, D.C., though it may be eligible for telework.
How often are applications reviewed?
The announcement features monthly cut-off dates. Initial review starts after November 14, 2026, with subsequent reviews held monthly.
Is veteran's preference applied to this position?
*A: This position is filled via Direct Hire Authority, meaning traditional veteran's preference does not apply, though veterans are encouraged to apply.*
Can I submit a resume longer than two pages?
*A: No. Doing so will result in your application being removed from consideration.*
Job from Office Of The General Counsel
The USDA is responsible for managing federal programs related to food, agriculture, and rural development. The Office of the General Counsel acts as the legal backbone of the department, ensuring that all policy initiatives and regulatory actions are legally sound. Joining this team means contributing to a vision of sustainable food production and the conservation of the nation’s natural resources.