Lead the Future of Market Integrity: Become an Exam Manager at the SEC
Are you a legal expert with a passion for financial oversight and protecting the American investing public? The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is currently seeking a highly qualified Supervisory Attorney-Adviser (Exam Manager) to join its Division of Examinations (EXAMS). This is a unique opportunity to play a leadership role in one of the nation's most respected regulatory agencies.
About the Securities and Exchange Commission
The SEC is the primary federal agency responsible for protecting investors, maintaining fair, orderly, and efficient markets, and facilitating capital formation. As an agency dedicated to high standards, the SEC offers professionals a chance to work alongside the nation's top financial experts. A career here means you contribute to the stability of the global market while enjoying the comprehensive benefits of federal service.
Your Role as an Exam Manager
The Exam Manager position is a critical function within the Office of Investment Advisers and Investment Companies (IA/IC). You will not only manage people but also direct the strategy behind high-stakes examinations.
Key Responsibilities:
- Team Leadership: Manage staff from diverse backgrounds, including legal and accounting professionals.
- Audit Oversight: Lead examinations of investment advisers, broker-dealers, and clearing agencies to ensure compliance with federal law.
- Strategic Reporting: Draft detailed findings and presentations for senior management to influence agency policy.
- Risk Identification: Leverage data-driven approaches to detect potential fraud and emerging market risks.
Requirements and Qualifications
To be eligible for this SK-15 position, candidates must meet stringent professional standards:
- Education: A J.D. or LL.B. degree from an accredited law school.
- Licensure: You must be an active member of the bar in good standing in any U.S. jurisdiction.
- Experience: At least one year of specialized experience at the SK-13 or GS-13 level or higher, involving complex legal advice regarding federal securities laws.
Comparison of Potential Candidate Backgrounds
| Feature | Entry-Level Attorney | Exam Manager (SK-15) |
|---|---|---|
| Complexity of Tasks | Supervised | Independent/Supervisory |
| Compliance Focus | Procedural | Risk-Based/Strategic |
| Team Interaction | Individual Contributor | Lead/Manager |
| Regulatory Scope | Narrow | Nationwide/Cross-Division |
Compensation and Benefits
This position offers a base and locality-dependent salary range of $150,009 to $292,300 per year. In addition to a competitive salary, the SEC provides standard federal benefits, including:
- Health and Life Insurance coverage.
- Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System.
- Annual leave and sick leave accrual.
- Work-life balance programs that support professional and personal development.
How to Apply Successfully
Applying for federal jobs requires precision. Follow these steps:
- Build Your Resume: Keep it to exactly two pages. Highlight your specific experience with financial audits or securities law.
- Answer Carefully: Complete the online questionnaire in the application portal.
- Prepare for the Narrative: If selected for the next round, you will have just three business days to submit an Accomplishment Record. Prepare your success stories (300 words each) in advance.
Becoming an Exam Manager at the SEC is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the integrity of the American financial system. If you meet the criteria and are ready for a leadership challenge, we encourage you to submit your application before the closing date. Your expertise could be the next asset in the SEC’s ongoing effort to build a safer investment landscape.
Why This Exam Manager Job Matters
Shape the future of financial oversight as a Supervisory Attorney-Adviser with the SEC, where your leadership directly impacts market integrity and investor protection.
Exam Manager Job Overview
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is hiring a Supervisory Attorney-Adviser (Exam Manager) within the Division of Examinations. This high-level position plays a pivotal role in the nationwide examination program, safeguarding market integrity and ensuring compliance across the investment industry. You will lead teams, direct complex audit programs, and provide expert legal analysis to support the agency's mission of protecting American investors.
Requirements for Exam Manager
- J.D. or LL.B. degree from an accredited institution.
- Active bar membership in good standing in any U.S. state, territory, D.C., or Puerto Rico.
- At least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the SK-13 level.
- Demonstrated expertise in federal securities laws and compliance for financial institutions.
- Proof of bar membership prior to entering on duty.
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
Preferred Qualifications for Exam Manager
- Strong leadership experience in managing diverse teams of legal and accounting professionals.
- Expertise in identifying emerging risks in investment advisers, broker-dealers, or clearing agencies.
- Proven ability to produce high-level written reports for senior agency staff.
- Advanced critical thinking skills applied to complex regulatory examinations.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with locality adjustments.
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance programs.
- ✓Federal Retirement System (FERS) participation.
- ✓Life insurance coverage.
- ✓Paid federal holidays and generous leave accrual.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and career advancement within the SEC.
💡 How to Apply Exam Manager Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Exam Manager Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Review the full vacancy announcement details.
- Prepare your resume (maximum of two pages).
- Submit your online questionnaire responses and supporting documentation by the closing date.
- If contacted, complete and submit your Accomplishment Record within three business days.
- Monitor your application status through your USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume specifically highlights dates of employment and relevant experience related to the SK-15 competencies.
- Do not exceed the two-page resume limit; non-compliant resumes will be disqualified.
- Begin drafting your Accomplishment Record narrative responses before you apply to ensure you can meet the quick turnaround time if requested.
- Verify all your education documents (transcripts) are ready for upload.
- Double-check that all required fields in the application questionnaire are completed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the salary range for this position?
The salary range is between $150,009 and $292,300 per year, depending on the specific duty location and pay-setting policies.
What happens if my Accomplishment Record is late?
The agency requires the Accomplishment Record within 3 business days of the request. Failure to meet this deadline will remove you from further consideration.
Can I apply if I don't have all my transcripts?
You must provide transcripts or documentation verifying your degree by the closing date. Incomplete packages are ineligible for review.
Can I submit my application via email?
No, you must use the online application portal via USAJOBS.
Is a security clearance required?
Yes, this position is designated as High Risk (HR), and you will be subject to a thorough background investigation.