FDA’s Office of the Chief Counsel is seeking to fill a GS-15 supervisory attorney position. This position offers intellectually challenging work, a variety of interesting assignments, and the satisfaction of working with highly motivated colleagues who are dedicated to integrity, excellence, and respect. We promote a culture where diversity, equity, and inclusion are valued, and where we enjoy our work. The duties of the position include:

• Serves as a lead attorney and in this capacity is responsible for planning, organizing, directing, assigning, and coordinating the activities of the attorneys assigned to one or more teams, or sub-teams, in the Office of the Chief Counsel.
• Directs the team in the selection and application of appropriate legal problem-solving methods and techniques.
• Provides advice on work methods, practices, and procedures, and assists the team and/or individual team members in identifying the parameters of the appropriate legal solution or advice.
• Provides authoritative legal advice, guidance, assistance, interpretations and/or recommendations to senior FDA staff and senior staff throughout HHS Office of General Counsel.
• Reviews, evaluates, and recommends the disposition of petitions submitted to FDA by affected individuals or firms.
• Reviews legislative proposals originating with FDA or referred by HHS.
• Reviews, drafts, or prepares substantive rules and regulations, general policy statements, of interpretations of applicability promulgated by the agency.

Candidates must have a record of strong academic achievement, along with outstanding legal research, writing, oral, analytical, and supervisory skills and be adept at working with and advising clients. Recognizing that diversity is a strength, the Office of the Chief Counsel values varied backgrounds and encourages members of historically underrepresented groups to apply. Additional information on the Office of the Chief Counsel is available at FDA Office of the Chief Counsel.

This career position is in the Excepted Service under a Schedule A appointment. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or Nationals. If selected, an applicant must submit a copy of the applicant’s state bar card or a certificate of good standing from all jurisdictions in which the applicant holds an active license to practice law prior to appointment and must complete an OGE 450 Confidential Financial Disclosure Form within thirty (30) days of entrance on duty. FDA is an equal opportunity employer and a smoke-free workplace.

Basic Qualifications Requirements:

• Possess a Juris Doctorate (J.D.) or LL.B from an accredited ABA law school, active bar status in good standing, and four years of professional legal experience post bar admission equivalent to the GS-14 level.

Additional Information:

• Travel, transportation, and relocation expenses will not be paid.
• Incentives may be authorized; however, this is contingent upon availability of funds. 

Conditions of Employment

• Background Investigation Requirement: All employees must pass a security investigation. Failing to pass the background check may be grounds for removal or legal action. If hired, you may be subject to additional investigations at a later time.
• This position may be subject to completion of a 2-year trial period (unless you have already satisfied this obligation within Health and Human Services).
• All qualification requirements must be met by February 23, 2024

How to Apply

To be considered, send an email to OCOCCAttorneyAPP@fda.hhs.gov by March 1, 2024, with the following:

• A resume (indicating full-time or part time employment. If part-time, please indicate the number of hours per week. Additionally, specify the to and from dates specifically month/year. Example: December 2024)
• Law school transcript
• A cover letter stating you are applying for a supervisory attorney position. The cover letter can also describe any areas you are particularly interested in (e.g., human drugs; tobacco products); why you are interested in the position; and how your legal experience, education, or training qualify you for this position.

If you have questions about submitting your materials or need more information, please email OCOCCAttorneyAPP@fda.hhs.gov.