Advance Your Legal Career with the USDA Office of the General Counsel
Are you looking for a legal career that combines rigorous advocacy with a commitment to the environment? The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Office of the General Counsel (OGC), Western Region, invites qualified attorneys to apply for the Attorney Advisor position. This is a unique opportunity to serve as legal counsel for the U.S. Forest Service, helping manage the diverse legal landscape of 165 million acres of public land.
Job Responsibilities
As an Attorney Advisor, your days will be dynamic and intellectually demanding. Key responsibilities include:
- Counseling: Providing authoritative advice on the management of National Forest System lands.
- Litigation Support: Collaborating with the Department of Justice on both affirmative and defensive federal litigation.
- Regulatory Compliance: Advising on mandates including the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), the Endangered Species Act, and the Clean Water Act.
- Transaction Drafting: Drafting and reviewing contracts, land acquisition agreements, and real estate documents.
- Claims Adjudication: Reviewing and resolving claims under the Federal Tort Claims Act.
Comparison of Qualifications
| Level | Experience Required | Complexity of Work |
|---|---|---|
| GS-11 | Entry Level | Supervised tasks, foundational law |
| GS-12 | 1 Year Post-JD | Independent handling of legal matters |
| GS-13 | 2 Years Post-JD | Expert analysis, complex counseling |
| GS-14 | 3+ Years Post-JD | Lead/First-Chair litigation, senior advisor |
Requirements
Applicants must demonstrate a successful completion of a J.D. or LL.B. from an ABA-accredited law school and hold a valid, active bar membership. Successful candidates will possess excellent research skills and the ability to rapidly master complex facts and scientific principles.
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a comprehensive federal compensation package, with base pay ranging from $63,795 to $139,684 annually. Beyond base pay, employees enjoy robust health coverage, generous leave policies, and participation in the federal pension system.
Working for the OGC Western Region means more than just practicing law; it means protecting the natural legacy of the United States. If you are an intellectually curious, collaborative, and mission-driven attorney, we encourage you to submit your application and join our team.
Why This Attorney Advisor (General) Job Matters
Protect the nation's natural heritage while advancing your legal career. Join the USDA Office of the General Counsel as an Attorney Advisor and influence the future of America's forests and public lands.
Attorney Advisor (General) Job Overview
The USDA Office of the General Counsel (OGC), Western Region, is seeking motivated and talented attorneys to join our mission-driven team. As an Attorney Advisor, you will provide critical legal support for the U.S. Forest Service, managing diverse issues ranging from natural resource policy and environmental compliance to complex litigation. Whether you are in Juneau, Davis, or Missoula, you will be part of a collaborative legal community dedicated to the sustainable stewardship of over 165 million acres of public land.
Requirements for Attorney Advisor (General)
- Possess a J.D. or LL.B. from an ABA-accredited law school.
- Current member in good standing of the bar of a state, D.C., or U.S. territory.
- Ability to demonstrate superior legal research, analytical, and writing abilities.
- For GS-12 and above: Minimum of 1 to 3 years of post-J.D. relevant legal experience.
- U.S. citizenship is required.
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a moderate-risk security clearance.
Preferred Qualifications for Attorney Advisor (General)
- Experience in natural resources or environmental law.
- Strong familiarity with the Administrative Procedure Act (APA).
- Proven experience in federal court litigation, especially in lead or first-chair roles.
- Experience drafting and negotiating complex legal instruments and agreements.
- Exceptional academic record and judicial clerkship experience.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal health, dental, and vision insurance options.
- ✓Competitive retirement plans including FERS.
- ✓Paid time off, including federal holidays, annual leave, and sick leave.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and career growth.
- ✓Telework eligibility for qualified positions.
- ✓Work-life balance in scenic locations like Alaska, California, and Montana.
💡 How to Apply Attorney Advisor (General) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Attorney Advisor (General) Job
- Prepare a resume not exceeding two pages, detailing your relevant experience and specific duties.
- Draft a cover letter identifying your preferred office location and explaining your qualifications.
- Compile proof of bar membership and law school transcripts.
- Create a written narrative (maximum 1,200 words) addressing the required competencies.
- Apply electronically through the USAJOBS portal before the monthly cut-off dates.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Adhere strictly to the two-page resume limit; excess pages will disqualify your application.
- Clearly articulate your litigation and natural resource law experience in your narrative.
- Submit all documentation in accepted formats (PDF, DOCX, etc.) and avoid encrypted files.
- Use the initial cut-off date to ensure your application is reviewed in the first round of selections.
- Double-check your transcripts and proof of bar membership to ensure all contact and degree information is legible.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of an Attorney Advisor in the OGC Western Region?
Attorneys primarily provide legal advice and litigation support to the U.S. Forest Service regarding land management, environmental regulations, contracts, and tort claims.
How does the open-continuous announcement work?
Applications are collected on an ongoing basis. There is an initial cut-off date, followed by monthly reviews for any subsequent vacancies.
Can I apply if I have no experience in natural resources law?
While natural resources experience is highly desirable, the agency values strong foundational legal skills and intellectual curiosity. Entry-level GS-11 candidates are encouraged to apply if they meet general bar and education requirements.
Job from Office Of The General Counsel
The USDA Office of the General Counsel acts as the legal arm of the Department of Agriculture. The Western Region, in particular, focuses on the unique challenges of the American West, providing critical advice on wildland fire, timber management, mineral rights, and endangered species protection. Our team values a collaborative approach, ensuring that our attorneys have the support they need to provide top-tier legal guidance while fostering growth and professional independence.