Advance Your Legal Career: Supervisory Trial Counsel at the SEC
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is currently offering an exceptional opportunity for experienced litigators to join the Division of Enforcement as a Supervisory Trial Counsel in Los Angeles. This role is designed for senior legal professionals who are ready to take on the responsibility of managing complex enforcement actions, directing trial units, and upholding the integrity of the nation's securities markets. If you are looking to pivot into a high-impact federal role, this position offers unparalleled professional stakes.
Job Responsibilities
As a Supervisory Trial Counsel, your responsibilities extend beyond the courtroom. You will:
- Participate in the assessment of litigation risks during the investigative phase.
- Manage and mentor trial attorneys, ensuring high standards for all legal filings.
- Conduct litigation in federal district courts and administrative proceedings.
- Provide guidance on complex settlements and represent the SEC to external regulatory counterparts.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Education: A J.D. or LL.B. degree.
- Licensure: Active bar membership in any state or U.S. territory.
- Experience: At least one year of specialized experience at the GS/SK-14/15 level.
- Documentation: Ability to provide transcripts and an Accomplishment Record upon request.
Qualifications Comparison Table
| Criteria | Requirement Details |
|---|---|
| Education | J.D. or LL.B. degree from an accredited school |
| Experience | 1+ year at GS/SK-14/15 equivalent level |
| Specialization | Complex civil/criminal litigation |
| Documentation | 2-page resume limit + Accomplishment Record |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $188,851 to $292,300 per year, depending on experience and qualifications. In addition to the base salary, federal employees benefit from a robust health insurance package, retirement planning via the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), and a culture that respects work-life balance.
Application Tips
- Prepare Early: Because the Accomplishment Record has a 3-day turnaround time, draft your narratives regarding Civil Pre-Trial, Critical Thinking, Legal Analysis, and Leadership before you even apply.
- Resume Hygiene: Keep your resume under two pages. Federal hiring is strict regarding documentation; exceeding the page limit is an automatic disqualification.
- Use Data: In your accomplishments, focus on the 'Results' of your legal actions to show your impact.
Serving as a Supervisory Trial Counsel with the SEC is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the financial health of the nation. With significant salary potential and the chance to lead complex cases, this position is ideal for an accomplished attorney seeking to leave their mark on the regulatory sector. Submit your application before the closing date to be considered.
Why This Supervisory Trial Counsel Job Matters
Lead high-stakes litigation as a Supervisory Trial Counsel with the SEC in Los Angeles and shape the future of market integrity.
Supervisory Trial Counsel Job Overview
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is seeking a seasoned legal professional to serve as a Supervisory Trial Counsel within the Division of Enforcement, Trial Unit in Los Angeles. This leadership role involves guiding complex litigation, managing trial attorneys, and representing the agency in significant federal and administrative proceedings. If you are an expert in securities law with a passion for investor protection, this position offers a unique platform to drive enforcement strategy and lead high-profile legal initiatives.
Requirements for Supervisory Trial Counsel
- Possess a J.D. or LL.B. degree from an accredited institution.
- Maintain active membership in the bar of any U.S. state, territory, District of Columbia, or Puerto Rico.
- Must have at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS/SK-14/15 level.
- Demonstrated experience litigating complex civil or criminal cases in Federal Court or Administrative Proceedings.
- Must be able to provide transcripts or equivalent documentation of academic credentials.
- Submission of a concise, four-part Accomplishment Record upon request.
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Trial Counsel
- Expertise in developing and executing innovative trial strategies for high-profile cases.
- Proven track record of managing professional staff and fostering career development within a legal team.
- Strong background in analyzing complex financial regulations and applying legal statutes to sensitive enforcement actions.
- Experience representing regulatory agencies in multifaceted negotiations and settlements.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with locality adjustment.
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance options.
- ✓Federal retirement benefits including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- ✓Life insurance coverage.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and career growth.
- ✓Work-life balance initiatives.
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Trial Counsel Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Trial Counsel Job
- Create or update your profile on the official federal hiring portal.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages, highlighting specific litigation dates and experience.
- Submit your online application and required questionnaire via the portal by the closing date.
- Await contact from the Office of Human Resources to submit your 4-competency Accomplishment Record.
- Ensure all educational transcripts and bar membership proof are readily available for verification.
💡 General Tips
- Prioritize your Accomplishment Record by drafting your four narratives in advance; you will only have 3 business days to submit once requested.
- Keep your resume strictly under two pages to remain eligible for consideration.
- Focus your narratives on specific situations, your direct actions, and the measurable outcomes achieved.
- Ensure your resume provides evidence that directly supports the claims made in your Accomplishment Record.
- Use clear, professional language to demonstrate your ability to lead and mentor junior staff.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the page limit for the resume?
Resumes must not exceed two pages; submissions exceeding this limit will be deemed ineligible.
What happens after I apply?
Your application will be screened for minimum qualifications. If you qualify, you will be invited to submit an Accomplishment Record, which will be reviewed by a panel.
Is the Accomplishment Record mandatory?
Yes. Failure to submit the Accomplishment Record within the 3-day window will result in your removal from the hiring process.
Job from Securities And Exchange Commission
The SEC’s mission is to protect investors, maintain fair, orderly, and efficient markets, and facilitate capital formation. As an independent federal agency, the SEC provides a challenging environment where the nation’s top legal experts collaborate to enforce federal securities laws. Employees enjoy competitive federal benefits, professional growth, and the opportunity to make a tangible difference in the American financial landscape.