Advance Your Legal Career as an Attorney-Advisor with the Air Force Materiel Command
The United States Air Force plays a critical role in global security, and behind every successful mission, there is a complex network of legal professionals ensuring compliance and strategic success. The Air Force Materiel Command (AFMC) is currently seeking a seasoned Attorney-Advisor to join their team in San Antonio, Texas. If you are an experienced legal professional with a passion for federal acquisition law, this role offers an unparalleled opportunity to impact national defense.
Job Responsibilities
As a senior legal counsel, your duties will be diverse and challenging. You will:
- Serve as the primary point of contact for program managers and contracting officers regarding complex acquisition matters.
- Review contractual documents for legal sufficiency and policy compliance.
- Provide formal legal opinions on fiscal, environmental, patent, and anti-trust issues.
- Advise senior leadership on negotiation techniques to protect the government's position.
- Mentor junior attorneys and staff members.
Requirements
This position requires a high level of expertise. Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- JD or LLB from an ABA-accredited law school.
- Active, valid bar license from any U.S. jurisdiction.
- Minimum of three years of professional legal experience.
- Ability to secure and maintain a government security clearance.
Comparison of Roles
| Feature | Attorney-Advisor (NH-04) | Private Sector Counsel |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Federal Acquisition Law | General/Corporate Law |
| Impact | Global Air Force Missions | Client/Corporate Growth |
| Benefits | Full Federal Benefits | Varying |
| Job Security | High (Federal Status) | Market Dependent |
Salary Overview
This position is listed under the NH-04 pay scale, offering a highly competitive salary range of $127,624 to $195,157 per year. Compensation is commensurate with experience and the specialized nature of federal acquisition law.
Benefits
Employees of the Air Force enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Health and Life Insurance.
- Federal pension plans (FERS).
- Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style) with employer matching.
- Robust paid time off and federal holidays.
- Opportunities for telework and flexible scheduling.
Application Tips
To be competitive, ensure your resume is concise—no more than two pages. Explicitly mention hours worked per week for every position to ensure your qualifications are accurately scored. Always include proof of active bar status dated within the last four months.
Serving as an Attorney-Advisor for the Air Force Materiel Command is a prestigious opportunity to combine legal expertise with public service. With competitive pay, top-tier benefits, and the chance to contribute to global security, this position is ideal for an attorney looking to pivot into or advance within federal service. Apply today to secure your place with the Air Force.
Why This Attorney-Advisor (Contract) - Direct Hire Authority Job Matters
Join the Air Force Materiel Command as a Senior Attorney-Advisor and steer the legal strategy behind global aerospace and defense innovation.
Attorney-Advisor (Contract) - Direct Hire Authority Job Overview
The Air Force Materiel Command (AFMC) is seeking a highly skilled Attorney-Advisor to serve as a cornerstone legal counsel for critical acquisition programs. Based in San Antonio, Texas, this Direct Hire Authority position provides comprehensive legal guidance to Commanders and staff across major commands. You will oversee complex contractual documents, resolve high-level legal inquiries, and ensure regulatory compliance in support of the United States Air Force's mission to maintain global superiority.
Requirements for Attorney-Advisor (Contract) - Direct Hire Authority
- Possess a Juris Doctor (JD) or Bachelor of Laws (LLB) from an ABA-accredited law school.
- Maintain an active, unrestricted license to practice law in any U.S. State, Territory, or the District of Columbia.
- Provide proof of active bar status dated within the last four months.
- Demonstrate at least three years of professional legal experience.
- Ability to obtain and maintain necessary security and program clearances.
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
Preferred Qualifications for Attorney-Advisor (Contract) - Direct Hire Authority
- Expertise in federal acquisition law, including Research & Development and systems acquisition.
- Deep understanding of fiscal, environmental, patent, and technical data rights law.
- Demonstrated ability to negotiate complex contractual agreements.
- Experience providing senior-level legal counsel within a high-stakes federal or military environment.
- Proven track record of working with substantial independence on complex legal matters.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary structure (NH-04 pay scale).
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs.
- ✓Generous retirement benefits, including the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Participation in the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching.
- ✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- ✓Access to professional development and training opportunities.
- ✓Work-life balance through telework eligibility.
💡 How to Apply Attorney-Advisor (Contract) - Direct Hire Authority Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Attorney-Advisor (Contract) - Direct Hire Authority Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two pages.
- Complete the online application questionnaire.
- Submit your active bar license proof and legal transcripts.
- Upload supporting documentation, such as the most recent SF-50 for current federal employees.
- Ensure all documents are submitted by the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- The two-page resume limit is strict; prioritize your most relevant acquisition law experience.
- Clearly state your hours worked per week and specific dates of employment to avoid being marked as 'insufficient'.
- Verify that your bar license status is current and documented within the four-month window.
- Avoid including personal information like social security numbers or photographs in your resume.
- Double-check that your questionnaire responses align perfectly with the details in your resume.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the pay scale for this position?
This role is classified under the NH-04 pay band, which is equivalent to GS-14/15, with a salary range of $127,624 to $195,157 annually.
Is telework available?
Yes, this position is eligible for telework, providing flexibility in how you manage your legal caseload.
Are there strict formatting requirements for the resume?
Yes, the resume must not exceed two pages, and the font size must be 10 points or larger to ensure it remains legible.
Is this a permanent position?
*A: This is an excepted service position under the Acquisition Demonstration Project.*
Do I need a specific security clearance?
*A: You must be able to obtain and maintain the required level of security clearance appropriate for the duties assigned.*
Job from Air Force Materiel Command
Headquartered at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, the Air Force Materiel Command is responsible for the research, development, and maintenance of the technology and equipment that powers the Air Force. Their mission centers on developing Airmen, fostering technology for warfighting, and integrating complex operations. As an Attorney-Advisor here, you are not just a lawyer; you are a strategic partner in the national defense mission.