Become a General Attorney with the Office of the Chief Counsel
Are you a legal professional looking to pivot your career toward public service? The Office of the Chief Counsel at U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is currently seeking a highly motivated General Attorney to join their team. This role provides a unique opportunity to apply your legal expertise to the complex world of federal fiscal law, safeguarding the operations of a critical agency.
Job Responsibilities
Unlike traditional immigration attorney roles, this position is centered on fiscal law. Key duties include:
- Performing extensive legal research on fiscal statutes.
- Advising on the Anti-Deficiency Act and the Economy Act.
- Guiding agency leadership on acquisition, debt collection, and grants.
- Conducting training sessions regarding federal fiscal regulations.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $90,925 - $164,301 |
| Security Clearance | Secret |
| Telework | Eligible (Episodic) |
| Hiring Path | Open to the public |
Requirements
To be eligible, you must be a U.S. citizen, possess a valid law degree, and be an active member of the bar in any jurisdiction. You must also demonstrate clear professional writing ability and possess the aptitude to manage complex, deadline-driven legal assignments.
Salary Overview
This position is structured within the GS-13 to GS-15 grade levels. Compensation is determined by your specific experience, current salary, and the locality of your chosen duty station.
Benefits
Employees of the DHS enjoy a robust benefits package that balances career satisfaction with personal well-being. This includes comprehensive health insurance options, participation in the Thrift Savings Plan, and generous paid leave.
Application Tips
- Respect the Constraints: Keep your resume to exactly two pages. The automated system will not process longer files.
- Be Precise: When listing your work history, include start and end dates (month/day/year) and hours worked per week.
- Use the Right Category: Always upload your resume under the designated 'Resume' portal section.
This role is an ideal step for attorneys seeking to influence federal governance through rigorous legal research and advisory work. If you meet the criteria and are ready for a challenging new chapter, submit your application today.
Why This General Attorney Job Matters
Protect national interests and advance your legal career at the front lines of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.
General Attorney Job Overview
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is seeking a dedicated General Attorney for its Office of the Chief Counsel. This role involves complex fiscal law research, advising on appropriations, acquisition, and debt collection, and conducting training. This is a vital position for legal professionals committed to public service and the integrity of federal fiscal operations.
Requirements for General Attorney
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or U.S. National.
- J.D. or LL.M. degree from an ABA-accredited law school, or completed legal apprenticeship in specific states.
- Active member of the bar in any U.S. jurisdiction.
- Must pass a background investigation and drug screening.
- Male applicants born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
- Residency requirement: 3 of the last 5 years in the U.S. (unless serving abroad in federal/military capacity).
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
Preferred Qualifications for General Attorney
- Demonstrated ability to resolve complex legal questions for both legal and non-legal staff.
- Proven experience managing a high-volume workload and meeting strict deadlines.
- Strong legal aptitude demonstrated through high-quality research and writing samples.
- Existing experience with federal fiscal law, including the Anti-Deficiency Act and Economy Act.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style retirement).
- ✓Paid federal holidays and personal leave.
- ✓Flexible work schedules and telework opportunities.
- ✓Tuition reimbursement and professional development programs.
- ✓Fitness centers and wellness programs.
💡 How to Apply General Attorney Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for General Attorney Job
- Access the official online application portal via the provided link.
- Complete the mandatory questionnaires and assessments.
- Prepare a resume (max 2 pages), cover letter (max 1 page), and a writing sample (max 10 pages).
- Upload all required documentation, including bar certification and transcripts.
- Submit the full package before the closing date of November 2, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume specifically highlights federal experience by grade and duration if applicable.
- Review your resume length; the system will reject files exceeding two pages.
- Use 11-point font and 0.8-inch margins to maintain readability.
- Be specific about your duties, employer information, and timeframes for each role.
- Double-check your responses to the online questionnaire; honesty and accuracy are strictly monitored.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this an immigration law position?
No. This position focuses on federal fiscal law, such as the Anti-Deficiency Act and the Economy Act. Prior immigration law experience will not be considered qualifying for this specific role.
What is the security requirement for this role?
Selected candidates must be able to obtain and maintain a 'Secret' level security clearance.
Can I submit my resume as an 'Other Document'?
No, you must upload your resume specifically under the 'Resume' category in the application portal to ensure it is considered.
What is the deadline to apply?
*A: All applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on November 2, 2026.*
Can I apply if I don't have federal experience?
*A: Yes, the position is open to the public; however, you must meet the professional experience requirements for the specific grade level you are applying to.*
Job from Citizenship And Immigration Services
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is an integral component of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Beyond its well-known role in managing immigration benefits, the agency maintains a robust internal legal team responsible for ensuring fiscal integrity, regulatory compliance, and sound administrative decision-making. Working at USCIS means contributing to the nation's security while building a stable, long-term federal career.