Senior Special Counsel: A Strategic Role at the SEC
Are you a seasoned legal professional with a focus on federal securities laws? The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is seeking a Senior Special Counsel to support the Office of the Chief Accountant (OCA). This role offers a unique platform to influence the national financial landscape and uphold the integrity of our capital markets.
About the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)
The SEC is the cornerstone of American financial regulation. Its mission is to protect investors, maintain fair, orderly, and efficient markets, and facilitate capital formation. Working within the Office of the Chief Accountant (OCA), you will be part of a specialized team that provides expert guidance on the intersection of legal policy and the accounting profession.
Key Responsibilities
As a Senior Special Counsel, your day-to-day work will be intellectually rigorous and highly impactful. Core responsibilities include:
- Legal Advising: Serving as an expert consultant for OCA programs.
- Regulatory Policy: Interpreting the Securities Act of 1933, the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
- Enforcement Support: Liaising with the Division of Enforcement to provide legal expertise on complex accounting and auditing matters.
- Stakeholder Briefings: Presenting legal briefings to Commissioners, their counsel, and other government entities.
Qualifications Overview
To be considered for this high-level position, you must meet stringent eligibility requirements:
| Requirement Type | Criteria |
|---|---|
| Education | J.D. or LL.B. degree from an accredited institution |
| Licensure | Active bar membership in good standing |
| Experience | 1+ year at the GS/SK-14 level or equivalent |
| Competencies | Legal analysis, regulatory compliance, information gathering, and advocacy |
Benefits of Federal Service
Working at the SEC provides more than just a competitive salary. Employees benefit from a collaborative work environment, access to some of the nation's leading legal and financial experts, and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support work-life integration.
Application Tips
- Resume Length: Resumes exceeding two pages will be automatically disqualified.
- Evidence-Based: Clearly map your professional history to the competencies of legal analysis and regulatory compliance.
- Timeliness: All documentation must be submitted by the deadline. Missing documents will lead to an incomplete application.
- Preparation: Review the online questionnaire early so you are prepared to articulate your experience accurately.
This role is an exceptional opportunity for an attorney to contribute to the nation's economic health. If you possess the required specialized experience and a deep understanding of securities law, we encourage you to review the full details and apply before the closing date.
Why This Senior Special Counsel Job Matters
Step into the inner circle of financial regulation as a Senior Special Counsel for the SEC’s Office of the Chief Accountant.
Senior Special Counsel Job Overview
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is hiring a Senior Special Counsel to join the Office of the Chief Accountant (OCA). This high-impact role places you at the intersection of federal securities law and the accounting profession, where you will provide expert guidance on enforcement and legal policy to help protect the American investing public.
Requirements for Senior Special Counsel
- Possession of a J.D. or LL.B. degree.
- Active, good standing membership in the bar of any U.S. state, territory, D.C., or Puerto Rico.
- At least one year of specialized experience at the GS/SK-14 level.
- Comprehensive knowledge of the Securities Act of 1933, Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
- Ability to pass a High Risk (HR) suitability/fitness background investigation.
Preferred Qualifications for Senior Special Counsel
- Extensive experience in analyzing complex legal and accounting policy issues.
- Proven expertise in drafting high-quality legal memoranda and policy briefs.
- Strong proficiency in oral and written advocacy for regulatory compliance matters.
- Demonstrated ability to synthesize large volumes of information into clear legal recommendations.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal salary and benefits package.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development alongside industry experts.
- ✓Meaningful work promoting capital formation and investor protection.
- ✓Strong emphasis on professional and family life balance.
💡 How to Apply Senior Special Counsel Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Senior Special Counsel Job
- Ensure your resume is no longer than two pages.
- Complete the online questionnaire via the official application portal.
- Gather required transcripts and bar membership documentation.
- Submit your full application package by 11:59 PM EST on the closing date.
- Monitor your USAJOBS account for status updates.
💡 General Tips
- Be sure your resume explicitly highlights dates of employment and specific experience with the Securities Act, Exchange Act, and Sarbanes-Oxley Act.
- The Accomplishment Record interview is a critical screening phase; prepare to articulate your mastery of the four identified core competencies.
- Check your USAJOBS account frequently for updates; do not rely solely on email notifications.
- Verify that your transcripts or educational documentation are clear and complete before submission.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of the Office of the Chief Accountant?
The OCA focuses on accounting, auditing, and financial disclosure issues, providing critical legal and policy advice to ensure compliance with federal securities laws.
Is a security clearance required?
A formal security clearance is not required, but the position is designated as High Risk (HR) and requires a suitability/fitness background investigation.
Can I submit an Accomplishment Record with my initial application?
No, please do not submit an Accomplishment Record with your initial application. You will be invited to participate in an accomplishment-based interview if you are found minimally qualified.
What is the salary range for this position?
The salary range is $174,859 – $292,300, depending on specific qualifications and duty location.
Is this a remote position?
No, this position is located in Washington, D.C.
How will I be evaluated?
Your application will first be screened for minimum qualifications. If you qualify, you will undergo an Accomplishment Record interview to assess your technical competencies.