Become an Attorney-Adviser with the Defense Health Agency
Are you a seasoned legal professional looking to apply your expertise to a mission that supports millions? The Defense Health Agency (DHA) is currently seeking a highly qualified Attorney-Adviser to join the Office of General Counsel in Falls Church, Virginia. This role offers a unique opportunity to influence the legal framework of the Military Health System (MHS).
About the Defense Health Agency
The Defense Health Agency is an integrated healthcare system providing medical, dental, and pharmacy services to over 9.5 million uniformed service members, retirees, and their families. As a strategic partner within the Department of Defense, the DHA ensures readiness and health excellence globally, anytime and anywhere.
Job Responsibilities
The selected Attorney-Adviser will manage a diverse and complex legal portfolio, including:
- Fraud and Abuse: Coordinating civil, criminal, and administrative remedies for fraud within the TRICARE program.
- Litigation Support: Assisting the Department of Justice in civil litigation and representing the government in adversarial proceedings such as bid protests and contract appeals.
- Contract Management: Reviewing complex contractual documents for legal sufficiency and policy compliance.
- Suspension and Debarment: Overseeing the administrative process for suspension and debarment referrals.
Requirements
To qualify, candidates must meet the following criteria:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Education | JD or LLB from an ABA-accredited school |
| Bar Membership | Active, good standing in any U.S. jurisdiction |
| Experience | 3+ years of professional legal experience post-admission |
| Clearance | Ability to maintain a Secret security clearance |
Salary and Benefits
The salary for this position ranges from $143,913 to $197,200 per year, inclusive of locality pay. Employees benefit from the federal package, including robust retirement plans, health insurance, and paid leave.
Application Tips
- Watch the Length: Keep your resume to exactly two pages. The system will automatically reject longer submissions.
- Proof of Good Standing: Ensure your documentation is dated within 90 days of your submission.
- Clarity: Ensure your resume clearly maps to the 'Major Duties' listed in the announcement.
This position is a prestigious opportunity for legal professionals to contribute to the defense of our nation's healthcare system. Apply by November 3, 2026, to be considered for this high-impact role.
Why This Attorney-Adviser Job Matters
Protect the integrity of the nation's largest healthcare system as a Senior Attorney-Adviser for the Defense Health Agency.
Attorney-Adviser Job Overview
The Defense Health Agency (DHA) is seeking a skilled and experienced Attorney-Adviser to join the Office of General Counsel in Falls Church, Virginia. This pivotal role involves managing complex legal matters, including healthcare fraud, contract litigation, and regulatory compliance, directly supporting the mission of providing world-class care to over 9.5 million service members and their families.
Requirements for Attorney-Adviser
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Juris Doctor (JD) or Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree from an ABA-accredited law school.
- Current, active member in good standing of the Bar of any U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia.
- At least three years of professional legal experience acquired after Bar admission.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
- Financial disclosure reporting is required.
- Completion of the online application questionnaire by the closing date.
Preferred Qualifications for Attorney-Adviser
- Proven track record in managing healthcare fraud and abuse litigation.
- Experience with federal contract and acquisition law, including bid protests.
- Exceptional written and oral advocacy skills.
- Experience preparing litigation reports, administrative records, and legal briefings.
- Ability to work effectively with the Department of Justice and other federal stakeholders.
- Current or recent experience in federal administrative law.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with locality pay.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs.
- ✓Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) participation.
- ✓Paid federal holidays and leave accrual.
- ✓Opportunities for professional growth within the Department of Defense.
- ✓Telework eligibility as determined by agency policy.
💡 How to Apply Attorney-Adviser Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Attorney-Adviser Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume limited to exactly two pages.
- Gather your law school transcripts and current Certificate of Good Standing.
- Submit your application and required documents through the USAJOBS portal.
- Complete the mandatory online questionnaire.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Strictly adhere to the two-page resume limit; exceeding this will result in immediate disqualification.
- Ensure your Certificate of Good Standing is dated within the last 90 days.
- If your Bar status is pending documentation, include a screenshot of your active status.
- Highlight specific experience with TRICARE or healthcare fraud if applicable.
- Sanitize sensitive personal information from supporting documents before uploading.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is veteran's preference applied to this position?
As this is an excepted service attorney position, the formal point-preference system does not apply; however, the agency considers veteran status a positive factor.
What is the maximum resume length?
The resume must not exceed two pages. Applications exceeding this limit will not be considered.
Is this position eligible for telework?
Yes, this position is telework eligible, subject to office policy and supervisor approval.