Become a General Attorney for the DOJ: Serving Justice through the RECA Program
The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) is currently accepting applications for a General Attorney within the Civil Division's Constitutional and Specialized Tort Litigation (CSTL) Section. This unique position offers attorneys the chance to serve the public by administering the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) Program. If you are a dedicated legal professional with a passion for justice and complex litigation, this could be the next step in your career.
Job Responsibilities
As a General Attorney (RECA), you will be at the front lines of claim adjudication. Your core responsibilities include:
- Legal Analysis: Interpreting complex statutes, rules, and regulations concerning radiation exposure claims.
- Evidence Development: Collaborating with state and federal agencies to build comprehensive evidentiary records.
- Fraud Evaluation: Analyzing claims to detect potential fraud or risks.
- Litigation Support: Assisting trial attorneys with pleadings, motions, and document preparation for matters that proceed to federal court.
- Stakeholder Management: Engaging with opposing counsel and local stakeholders regarding the adjudication process.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, you must:
- Hold a J.D. or equivalent law degree.
- Be a member of a bar in good standing.
- Meet the required years of post-J.D. experience for the grade level (GS-11 through GS-15).
- Be able to commit to an in-person work environment in Washington, D.C.
Grade Level Comparison
| Grade Level | Required Experience |
|---|---|
| GS-11 | Up to 1 year |
| GS-12 | 1+ year |
| GS-13 | 1.5+ years |
| GS-14 | 2.5+ years |
| GS-15 | 4+ years |
Salary Overview
The salary for this role is competitive, reflecting the complexity of federal legal work. Depending on experience and qualifications, the annual pay range is $85,447 to $197,200.
Benefits
Employees of the Department of Justice enjoy a robust federal benefits package, including:
- Comprehensive health insurance and dental/vision options.
- Retirement savings via the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Generous paid annual and sick leave.
- Opportunities for ongoing professional training and career advancement.
Application Tips
- Clarity is Key: Since this is a competitive role, ensure your resume is concise and highlights your courtroom and drafting experience clearly.
- The Writing Sample: Select a sample that demonstrates your ability to argue complex legal points effectively.
- Check Dates: The application window is strict. Ensure all documents are submitted well before the closing date.
Serving as a General Attorney for the RECA Program is more than just a job; it is an opportunity to provide tangible restitution to citizens who suffered as a result of Cold War national defense efforts. If you are prepared for the challenge, we encourage you to apply.
Why This General Attorney (Reca) Job Matters
Shape the future of justice and provide restitution to those affected by Cold War-era radiation exposure as a General Attorney with the Department of Justice.
General Attorney (Reca) Job Overview
The Department of Justice, Civil Division, is seeking dedicated legal professionals to join the Constitutional and Specialized Tort Litigation (CSTL) Section. This role focuses on the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) Program, which provides critical compensation to individuals impacted by nuclear weapons testing and uranium mining. You will play a vital role in investigating claims, evaluating evidence, and defending the interests of the United States in a high-impact, mission-driven environment.
Requirements for General Attorney (Reca)
- Possess a J.D. or equivalent law degree from an accredited institution.
- Must be an active, licensed member of the bar in good standing in any U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia.
- Must be able to work in-person five days per week in Washington, D.C.
- Meet specific post-J.D. legal experience requirements based on the targeted GS grade level (ranging from 0 to 4+ years).
- Must be a U.S. citizen and successfully pass a high-risk security clearance and drug screening.
- Males born after December 31, 1959, must be registered with the Selective Service System.
Preferred Qualifications for General Attorney (Reca)
- Proven track record in legal advocacy and high-level legal writing.
- Demonstrated experience in courtroom litigation, including handling discovery and taking depositions.
- Experience in drafting and arguing motions in complex cases.
- History of managing expert witness testimony and trial preparation.
- Expertise in evaluating claims for fraud and assessing complex factual evidence.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance and retirement plans.
- ✓Competitive federal salary structure with promotion potential up to GS-15.
- ✓Opportunities for professional growth within the Department of Justice.
- ✓Paid federal holidays, annual leave, and sick leave.
- ✓Access to federal life insurance programs and flexible spending accounts.
💡 How to Apply General Attorney (Reca) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for General Attorney (Reca) Job
- Prepare a resume (max 2 pages), cover letter, and a writing sample (max 10 pages, created within the last 3 years).
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Click the Apply Online button to initiate the process.
- Complete the online questionnaire and verify eligibility requirements.
- Upload all required documentation, ensuring files are under 3 MB.
- Review and certify your submission through the DOJ Application Manager portal.
- Submit your application and monitor your email for the confirmation notification.
💡 General Tips
- Submit your application as early as possible to ensure technical issues do not prevent timely arrival.
- Ensure your resume explicitly maps your experience to the qualifications listed for your target GS grade.
- Proofread your writing sample thoroughly; it is a primary indicator of your professional quality.
- If claiming veteran preference, ensure all supporting documentation, such as the DD-214 or SF-15, is attached.
- Use the specific document categories provided in the portal to ensure your uploads are correctly categorized.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is remote work available for this position?
No, this is an in-person position. The incumbent is expected to work on-site five days per week in Washington, D.C.
What happens after the initial two-year appointment?
The appointment is for two years with the option for one-year extensions, not to exceed a total of four years.
How is the grade level determined?
Grade level is determined based on the total amount of relevant post-J.D. legal experience you possess at the time of application.
Do I need a security clearance?
Yes, this position requires a high-risk, special-sensitive security clearance.
Is there flexibility for remote work?
No, this position is strictly on-site in Washington, D.C.
Job from Offices, Boards And Divisions
The Department of Justice is the cornerstone of the federal legal system. Specifically, the Civil Division represents the United States in significant litigation, including claims brought under the RECA program. RECA provides compassionate, fixed-payment compensation to individuals who developed specific illnesses due to exposure to radiation during Cold War-era nuclear testing or uranium mining.