Become an Administrative Judge (Legal) with the NRC
Are you a seasoned legal professional with a passion for public service and technical oversight? The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) is currently seeking a highly qualified Administrative Judge (Legal) to serve on the Atomic Safety and Licensing Board Panel (ASLBP). This is a rare opportunity to contribute your expertise to one of the most critical safety and regulatory agencies in the United States federal government.
About the Agency: The Nuclear Regulatory Commission
The NRC is an independent federal agency dedicated to protecting public health, the environment, and the security of the nation. By regulating the peaceful use of nuclear energy, the NRC ensures that commercial nuclear power plants, research reactors, and industrial facilities operate within strict safety guidelines. Working at the NRC means collaborating with a diverse group of scientists, engineers, and legal professionals who are unified by a commitment to excellence.
Job Responsibilities
As an Administrative Judge on the ASLBP, you will be the cornerstone of the adjudicatory process. Your day-to-day duties will include:
- Prehearing Activities: Reviewing complex pleadings, filings, and evidence to prepare necessary orders.
- Hearing Coordination: Overseeing public hearings for nuclear facility licensing, including the examination of expert witnesses.
- Decision-Making: Studying the legal record, researching case precedent, and authoring clear, concise, and persuasive written decisions.
- Regulatory Advisory: Providing counsel to the Chief Administrative Judge on administrative and procedural matters as requested.
Qualifications Comparison
| Feature | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Degree | J.D., LL.B., or equivalent |
| Bar Status | Active and good standing |
| Experience | 10+ years (with substantial litigation) |
| Trial Experience | Required (Administrative or Court) |
| Citizenship | United States citizen |
Requirements
To be considered for this prestigious appointment, you must possess a degree from an accredited law school and maintain active bar status. The NRC places significant emphasis on your ability to synthesize technical subject matter with substantive law. You must demonstrate the temperament, collegiality, and professional stature necessary to preside over adversarial proceedings.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a fixed salary of $209,600 per year. Beyond the competitive compensation, NRC employees enjoy a robust federal benefits package:
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Participation in the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- Generous annual and sick leave accrual.
- 11 paid federal holidays.
Application Tips for Success
- Format Matters: Stick strictly to the two-page resume limit. Quality is more important than quantity.
- Highlight Litigation: Ensure your resume clearly details your experience as counsel for a party in litigation or adjudicatory proceedings.
- Be Direct: Avoid vague descriptions. Use results-focused language that highlights your achievements and decision-making capabilities.
This is a unique path to influence nuclear safety policy at the highest levels. If you possess the experience, temperament, and drive to serve in this critical role, we encourage you to submit your application by the closing date of April 26, 2027.
Why This Administrative Judge (Legal) Job Matters
Step into a pivotal role at the Atomic Safety and Licensing Board Panel, where your legal expertise directly safeguards the nation’s nuclear infrastructure and public safety.
Administrative Judge (Legal) Job Overview
The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission is seeking a dedicated and experienced Administrative Judge (Legal) to join the Atomic Safety and Licensing Board Panel (ASLBP) in Rockville, Maryland. This role is central to the NRC’s mission, involving presiding over complex adjudicatory hearings related to the licensing of civilian nuclear facilities. You will be responsible for interpreting substantive law, analyzing technical evidence, and delivering fair, timely, and impartial decisions in a highly professional and collegial environment.
Requirements for Administrative Judge (Legal)
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Juris Doctor (J.D.), LL.B., or equivalent law degree from an accredited institution.
- Current, active, and good-standing membership in the Bar of any U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia.
- At least one year of specialized experience at the next lower federal grade level or equivalent private sector experience.
- Minimum of 10 years of professional work experience with substantial litigation history.
- Ability to meet and maintain stringent security and suitability requirements.
- Successfully pass a pre-employment drug test.
- Commitment to a 1-2 year trial period.
Preferred Qualifications for Administrative Judge (Legal)
- Extensive experience in administrative law and environmental law.
- Demonstrated ability to preside over complex trials or administrative hearings.
- Deep familiarity with rules of evidence and witness examination procedures.
- Proven experience with alternative dispute resolution and modern courtroom technologies.
- Superior written and oral communication skills for drafting complex legal decisions.
- A track record of fostering consensus and collaboration within a team-based adjudicatory board.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance coverage
- ✓Dental and vision insurance options
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (401(k) equivalent)
- ✓Generous paid annual leave and sick leave
- ✓Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care
- ✓11 paid federal holidays
- ✓Transit benefits
- ✓Supportive work-life balance initiatives
💡 How to Apply Administrative Judge (Legal) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Administrative Judge (Legal) Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement details on USAJOBS.
- Prepare your resume (maximum two pages) using the USAJOBS Resume Builder for best results.
- Gather required documentation, including official or unofficial transcripts and proof of bar membership.
- Draft two writing samples that demonstrate your technical and analytical expertise.
- Complete the online application questionnaire through the NRC portal.
- Submit your entire application package before the closing date of April 26, 2027.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit.
- Be explicit in your resume about your litigation experience; the agency will not make assumptions.
- Include specific examples of how you have handled complex legal and technical issues in your past roles.
- Verify that your bar membership is in good standing before applying.
- Use the supplemental questionnaire to highlight your experience that aligns with the 'ideal candidate' criteria.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of the Atomic Safety and Licensing Board Panel?
The ASLBP conducts hearings and makes independent decisions regarding the licensing, suspension, or revocation of licenses authorized by the Atomic Energy Act for nuclear facilities.
Is telework available for this position?
Yes, this position may be eligible for situational telework, depending on current agency policy.
Do I need a security clearance for this role?
Yes, this position requires Q Access Authorization. You must be able to meet suitability and security requirements, and a 145(b) waiver may be required if a final clearance is not yet granted.