Launch Your Legal Career as a Board Law Clerk at the NLRB
Are you a recent law graduate with a passion for labor relations and administrative law? The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) is offering a unique opportunity to join the Office of Board Member Prouty as a Law Clerk (Trainee). This role serves as a foundational step for aspiring labor attorneys, offering deep involvement in the federal adjudication process.
Job Responsibilities
As a Board Law Clerk, you will perform high-level tasks that directly support the adjudicative functions of the agency. Key responsibilities include:
- Analyzing appeals from decisions made by Administrative Law Judges and Regional Directors.
- Drafting proposed Board decisions and opinions for the Member’s review.
- Conducting extensive research into case law, statutes, and legislative history.
- Assisting in the development of regulatory policies and procedural guidelines.
Requirements
To qualify for this GS-11 trainee role, you must meet specific standards:
- Education: You must hold a JD or LLB from an ABA-accredited institution.
- Bar Status: You must not be barred/licensed at the time of application but must secure it within 14 months.
- Documentation: A strict two-page resume limit and a professional writing sample are mandatory.
| Feature | Requirement Status |
|---|---|
| Degree Required | JD or LLB |
| Bar Membership | Not permitted at time of application |
| Resume Length | Maximum 2 pages |
| Citizenship | Required |
Salary Overview
This position is classified under the GS-11 pay scale, with a competitive annual salary range of $63,795 to $83,938. As you transition to a permanent role, you may qualify for performance-based increases and potential promotion opportunities up to the GS-14 level.
Benefits
Beyond the salary, the NLRB provides a comprehensive suite of federal benefits, including:
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Retirement security via the Thrift Savings Plan.
- Flexible schedules and telework opportunities.
- Paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
Application Tips
The competition for federal clerkships is high. To stand out, ensure your writing sample demonstrates exceptional analytical rigor and clarity. Furthermore, carefully follow the resume formatting instructions—failure to adhere to the two-page limit will result in immediate disqualification.
Serving as a Board Law Clerk at the NLRB is an excellent way to launch a career in public service and labor law. If you are prepared to analyze complex legal issues and support the rights of workers across the nation, apply through the USAJOBS portal before the vacancy closes.
Why This Law Clerk (Trainee) (Board Law Clerk) Job Matters
Launch your legal career at the heart of national labor policy—the National Labor Relations Board is seeking talented law graduates to join as Board Law Clerks.
Law Clerk (Trainee) (Board Law Clerk) Job Overview
The Office of Board Member Prouty at the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) is recruiting highly motivated Law Clerks to support its critical mission. This trainee position offers a unique gateway for law graduates to engage with complex labor law issues, analyze appeals, and assist in the development of agency policies. As a Board Law Clerk, you will gain unparalleled exposure to the adjudication process under the National Labor Relations Act while preparing for your legal career transition to a permanent role upon obtaining bar licensure.
Requirements for Law Clerk (Trainee) (Board Law Clerk)
- Completion of a full course of study at an ABA-accredited law school with an LLB or JD degree by the closing date.
- Must not be barred or licensed as an attorney as of the closing date.
- Ability to obtain Bar/License Certification within 14 months of appointment.
- Submission of a concise, maximum two-page resume.
- Submission of an unofficial transcript reflecting degree conferral.
- Submission of a personal legal writing sample (maximum five pages).
- U.S. Citizenship.
Preferred Qualifications for Law Clerk (Trainee) (Board Law Clerk)
- Strong demonstrated interest in the National Labor Relations Act and the Administrative Procedure Act.
- Proven ability to conduct sophisticated legal research and analysis.
- Exceptional written and oral communication skills.
- Demonstrated aptitude for reviewing evidence and drafting clear, professional legal documents.
- Ability to collaborate effectively with attorneys on litigation and compliance tasks.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program.
- ✓Participation in the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) retirement system.
- ✓Flexible Work Schedules and Telework eligibility.
- ✓Federal life and long-term care insurance options.
- ✓Child Care Subsidy Program.
- ✓Transit Benefit Program for commuting.
- ✓Employee Assistance Programs for work-life balance.
💡 How to Apply Law Clerk (Trainee) (Board Law Clerk) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Law Clerk (Trainee) (Board Law Clerk) Job
- Create or log into your account at USAJOBS.
- Prepare a two-page resume that details relevant work and education history.
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire.
- Upload required documents, including unofficial transcripts and a legal writing sample.
- Submit your final application package before the deadline.
- Monitor your status through the USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to the two-page limit; exceeding this will make you ineligible.
- Ensure your resume explicitly maps your experience to the job duties listed in the announcement.
- Proofread your writing sample thoroughly; it is a direct reflection of your professional capability.
- Use the online questionnaire as an opportunity to highlight your specific knowledge in labor law.
- Verify that your uploaded documents appear in your active application before the final submission.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply if I am already a member of the Bar?
No, this specific trainee position is designed for law school graduates who have not yet obtained their bar license.
What happens if I pass the bar exam after being hired?
Once you obtain your bar/license certification within the required 14-month window, you will be converted into a permanent position.
Is telework available?
Yes, the position is telework eligible, reflecting the NLRB's commitment to flexible work-life balance.
What is the trial period?
You will be subject to a 2-year trial period to evaluate your fitness and alignment with the agency's goals.
Are there travel requirements?
Yes, the position involves some travel in support of official agency duties.
Job from National Labor Relations Board
The National Labor Relations Board is an independent federal agency tasked with enforcing the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA). Since 1935, the agency has played a pivotal role in mediating disputes, protecting employee rights to organize, and ensuring fair bargaining practices between unions and employers. Working at the NLRB means contributing to the stability of the American workforce and the protection of essential labor rights.