Become an Attorney Advisor with the Department of the Interior
Are you a dedicated legal professional looking to serve the public interest? The Office of the Solicitor (SOL) is inviting applications for an Attorney Advisor (General) position based in the vibrant city of Phoenix, Arizona. This role is a unique gateway into federal service, focusing on the critical legal infrastructure of the American West.
About the Agency: Office of the Solicitor
The Department of the Interior (DOI) acts as the steward for the nation’s natural resources, cultural heritage, and trust responsibilities to Native American communities. Within the DOI, the Office of the Solicitor serves as the powerhouse for all legal operations. From ethics and FOIA administration to complex environmental litigation, the SOL ensures that the Department operates with the highest degree of integrity and legal precision.
Job Responsibilities
As an Attorney Advisor in the Intermountain Region, you will function as a vital legal consultant for the Bureau of Reclamation (BOR). Your daily impact will include:
- Legal Counseling: Providing advice on contractual matters, regulatory compliance, and environmental liability.
- Water & Wildlife Law: Assisting in matters involving water rights, endangered species, and land management.
- General Federal Law: Applying knowledge of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), federal appropriation laws, and the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR).
- Litigation Support: Preparing and coordinating legal strategies with the Department of Justice on behalf of the Secretary of the Interior.
- Collaboration: Negotiating with Tribes, State entities, and local stakeholders to secure cooperative agreements.
Requirements
To be considered for this high-stakes role, applicants must meet several baseline requirements:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen or national.
- Education: Completion of an LL.B. or J.D. from an accredited law school.
- Bar Admission: Active member in good standing in at least one U.S. jurisdiction.
- Experience: Professional legal experience ranging from 2 to 4.5 years depending on the grade level (GS-12 to GS-14).
- Documentation: Submission of transcripts, bar status, and a 2-page resume is mandatory.
Grade Level Comparison
| Grade Level | Minimum Years of Experience | Potential Salary Range |
|---|---|---|
| GS-12 | 2 Years | $93,629 - $121,720 |
| GS-13 | 3 Years | $111,338 - $144,741 |
| GS-14 | 4.5 Years | $131,568 - $171,043 |
Salary and Benefits
Federal employment offers a compensation package designed for long-term security. Beyond the competitive base salary, you will gain access to the federal health benefit system, retirement programs (FERS), and a generous leave structure. The ability to manage your work-life balance is supported through agency-wide telework policies.
Application Tips for Success
- Respect the Constraints: The 2-page resume limit is strictly enforced. Focus on quality and high-impact accomplishments over volume.
- Documentation Clarity: Ensure your proof of bar membership is current (dated within the last 3 months).
- Tailor Your Narrative: Explicitly connect your past experiences in litigation, real property, or environmental law to the duties described for the BOR.
- Utilize the Builder: We strongly recommend using the USAJobs Resume Builder to ensure your formatting complies with federal standards.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is this a permanent position? A: This is a term-limited appointment (not to exceed 5 years) that may be extended.
Q: Can I telework? A: Yes, telework is available subject to supervisor approval.
Q: Do I need a security clearance? A: A formal security clearance is not required, but you must undergo a suitability/fitness background investigation.
Working for the Office of the Solicitor in Phoenix provides an unparalleled opportunity to work at the intersection of natural resources and public law. If you are ready to apply your legal acumen to the preservation of our nation's resources, apply via the USAJobs portal today.
Why This Attorney Advisor (General) Job Matters
Join the Office of the Solicitor in Phoenix as an Attorney Advisor and play a pivotal role in shaping the legal future of the Bureau of Reclamation and the Department of the Interior.
Attorney Advisor (General) Job Overview
The Department of the Interior's Office of the Solicitor is seeking a dedicated Attorney Advisor to join the Intermountain Region team in Phoenix, Arizona. This position offers a unique opportunity to provide comprehensive legal guidance on critical matters involving the Bureau of Reclamation, including water rights, environmental law, and complex federal contractual agreements. This is a term-limited appointment (not to exceed 5 years) that provides a significant platform to influence federal natural resource policy while serving the public interest.
Requirements for Attorney Advisor (General)
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
- Must be an active member in good standing of a state, territory, DC, or Puerto Rico bar.
- Possess a professional law degree (LL.B. or J.D.).
- Minimum of 2 years of professional legal experience for GS-12; 3 years for GS-13; 4.5 years for GS-14.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a government travel and purchase card.
- Must pass a background investigation and E-Verify check.
- Males born after 12/31/59 must be registered for Selective Service.
- Must complete a 2-year trial period.
Preferred Qualifications for Attorney Advisor (General)
- Academic standing in the top one-third of law school graduating class.
- Demonstrated academic honors or law review participation.
- Significant experience in moot court or clinical legal aid programs.
- Relevant summer law office clerkship experience.
- Proven capability to negotiate effectively with Tribes, States, and local government entities.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs.
- ✓Federal retirement benefits (FERS).
- ✓Participation in the Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style).
- ✓Generous leave policies including paid federal holidays, sick leave, and annual leave.
- ✓Potential for flexible work arrangements and telework opportunities.
- ✓Extensive professional development and training programs.
💡 How to Apply Attorney Advisor (General) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Attorney Advisor (General) Job
- Log in or create an account on USAJOBS.
- Build or update your resume (limited to 2 pages maximum).
- Attach required documents: transcripts, active bar membership proof, and a 1-2 page cover letter.
- Submit your application online before the closing date.
- Complete the mandatory online assessment questionnaire.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS applicant dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Adhere strictly to the 2-page resume limit; excess length may disqualify you.
- Use the USAJobs Resume Builder to ensure all federal requirements are captured.
- Ensure your bar membership documentation is dated within 3 months of the closing date.
- Clearly highlight your specialized legal experience in environmental or contractual law.
- Double-check your eligibility responses against your resume content to ensure consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the term limit for this position?
This is a term-limited appointment not to exceed 5 years, though it may be extended based on organizational needs.
Is telework available?
Yes, this position is eligible for telework, subject to supervisor approval and agency policy.
What are the core duties regarding litigation?
The incumbent provides litigation support to the Department of Justice on behalf of the Secretary of the Interior and relevant agencies, including the Bureau of Reclamation.