Advance Your Legal Career: Senior Counsel at the SEC
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is seeking a highly skilled Attorney-Adviser to serve as Senior Counsel within the EDGAR Business Office (EBO). This role sits at the nexus of technology and securities law, offering a unique opportunity to shape the infrastructure of the U.S. capital markets.
Job Responsibilities
As a Senior Counsel, you will:
- Provide legal advice regarding the EDGAR system's development.
- Collaborate with SEC divisions to implement rulemaking changes.
- Draft action memoranda for Commission adoption.
- Support stakeholders by interpreting legal guidance.
Comparison: Standard vs. Specialized Federal Attorney Roles
| Feature | General Attorney | Senior Counsel (EBO) |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Broad Legal Support | Specialized EDGAR/Policy |
| Rulemaking | Occasional | Frequent & Direct |
| Stakeholder Interaction | Internal/Standard | High-Level/External |
| Pay Grade | Varies | SK-16 (High Level) |
Requirements
- Education: J.D. or LL.B. degree.
- Licensure: Active bar membership.
- Experience: At least one year at the SK-14/15 level.
- Documentation: Transcripts and specific Accomplishment Records are mandatory.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $161,608 to $292,300 annually. Employees benefit from the full breadth of Federal benefits, including health, retirement, and career advancement training.
How to Apply
- Prepare a resume not exceeding two pages.
- Submit the online questionnaire.
- Draft your competency-based Accomplishment Record.
- Apply via the USAJOBS portal by November 9, 2026.
This role is ideal for an experienced attorney looking to influence the future of securities technology. If you meet the criteria, prepare your materials now.
Why This Senior Counsel Job Matters
Shape the future of electronic filing and securities regulation as a Senior Counsel with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Senior Counsel Job Overview
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is hiring a Senior Counsel for the EDGAR Business Office (EBO) Office of the Chief Counsel. This pivotal role involves providing expert legal and policy guidance regarding the EDGAR system. You will collaborate on complex rulemaking, draft high-level policy documents, and ensure the integrity of filing operations. This is an exceptional opportunity for an experienced attorney to influence federal securities policy at a high-visibility agency.
Requirements for Senior Counsel
- Possess a J.D. or LL.B. degree from an accredited institution.
- Active membership in good standing in any state, territory, District of Columbia, or Puerto Rico bar.
- Minimum of one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS/SK-14 or 15 level.
- Proven experience in conducting complex legal research for agency programs.
- Proficiency in drafting legal memoranda, briefs, and rulemaking documents.
- Must be able to provide expert legal recommendations to senior management.
Preferred Qualifications for Senior Counsel
- Demonstrated ability in critical thinking and complex decision-making.
- Expertise in teamwork and collaboration within cross-functional government environments.
- Proven proficiency in conducting legal and regulatory analysis compliant with federal rulemaking standards.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive Federal employee benefits package.
- ✓Enhanced compensation programs.
- ✓Work-life balance initiatives.
- ✓Opportunities for professional growth and skill development.
- ✓Environment working with national subject matter experts.
💡 How to Apply Senior Counsel Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Senior Counsel Job
- Ensure your resume is limited to two pages.
- Complete the online questionnaire via the provided portal.
- Prepare your Accomplishment Record in advance, focusing on the four required competencies.
- Submit your complete application package, including transcripts, before the November 9, 2026, deadline.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS portal.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly under two pages; longer resumes will be disqualified.
- Address the four specific competencies in your Accomplishment Record clearly, using one specific example per competency.
- Respect the 300-word limit per competency narrative.
- Be ready to provide your Accomplishment Record within 3 business days if contacted.
- Ensure all educational transcripts are ready for upload.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of a Senior Counsel in the EDGAR Business Office?
You will act as a legal and policy expert, drafting rules, collaborating on SEC-wide rulemaking, and advising on EDGAR system development.
Is telework available for this position?
No, this position is not listed as eligible for telework or remote work.
Job from Securities And Exchange Commission
The SEC is the cornerstone of American financial integrity. Its mission is to protect investors, maintain fair and efficient markets, and facilitate capital formation. Working at the SEC means joining a team of experts dedicated to the stability and transparency of the nation's financial system.