The mission of the Office of Legal Policy (OLP), located in Washington, DC, is to develop and implement the Department's significant policy initiatives, handle special projects that implicate the interests of multiple Department components, coordinate with other interested Department components and other Executive Branch agencies, and serve as the primary policy advisor to the Attorney General and the Deputy Attorney General. OLP also reviews and coordinates regulations promulgated by the Department and all of its components, assists the Attorney General with responsibilities in vetting candidates for federal judgeships, and coordinates the judicial nomination and confirmation process with the White House and the Senate.
As the federal agency whose mission is to ensure the fair and impartial administration of justice for all Americans, the Department of Justice is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment. To build and retain a workforce that reflects the diverse experiences and perspectives of the American people, we welcome applicants from the many communities, identities, races, ethnicities, backgrounds, abilities, religions, and cultures of the United States who share our commitment to public service.
OLP is seeking an experienced attorney to serve as Counsel or Senior Counsel to assist with policy work on a wide range of legal issues relevant to the Department’s work, including efforts to reduce violent crime, protect our national security, prevent and combat discrimination, advance an effective immigration system, and enforce the rule of law, as well as other policy issues as assigned. Experience with firearms and/or drug policy is preferred but not required. This position requires significant collaboration with Department components and other agencies on policy, legislation, and regulatory issues. As needed, this position may also involve assisting in OLP’s work relating to judicial nominations. Willingness to work on topics outside a specific area of expertise is also expected.
Applicants must possess a J.D. degree, have at least three years of post-J.D. legal experience, have strong research and writing skills, and be an active member of the bar of any state (or the District of Columbia). A demonstrated ability to navigate complex issue areas with competing interests and build consensus is a core skill required for the position. Prior experience working on policy or regulatory matters is strongly preferred but not required. Judicial clerkship experience is preferred but not required.
Applicants must submit a cover letter (highlighting relevant experience), a writing sample, and a resume or OF-612 (Optional Application for Federal Employment) to the following address via e-mail OLPinbox@usdoj.gov (Attn: Counsel/Senior Counsel).
No telephone calls please. Please reference this announcement, OLP ATY 22-006, in your cover letter. This vacancy will be open until January 6, 2023 or until a selection has been made.
Applicants should familiarize themselves and comply with the relevant rules of professional conduct regarding any possible conflicts of interest in connection with their applications. In particular, please notify this Office if you currently represent clients or adjudicate matters in which this Office is involved and/or you have a family member who is representing clients or adjudicating matters in which this Office is involved so that we can evaluate any potential conflict of interest or disqualification issue that may need to be addressed under those circumstances.