Trial Attorney (Vaccine Litigation Section)

Interested applicants must possess a J.D., or equivalent, degree, be duly licensed and authorized to practice as an attorney under the laws of any State, territory of the United States, or the District of Columbia, and be an active member of the bar in good standing.Possessing the minimum post law degree legal experience does not guarantee the applicant will be selected at that grade level.

To qualify at the GS-13 grade level, applicants must possess at least one and one-half (1.5) years of post-J.D. legal experience. To qualify at the GS-14 grade level, applicants must possess at least two and one-half (2.5) years of post-J.D. legal experience. To qualify at the GS-15 grade level, applicants must possess at least four (4) years of post-J.D. legal experience. This is not a remote location position. You will be required to work in person five days a week.

Qualifications must be met by the closing date of the vacancy announcement.

01Preferred qualifications

Applicants with proven advocacy, legal writing, negotiation skills, interpersonal skills and ability to exhibit good judgment preferred. Trial experience is strongly preferred, although not required. Trial Period Statement: As a condition of employment for accepting this position in accordance with section 11.5 of Executive Order 14284, you will be required to serve a 2-year trial period during which we will evaluate your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest.

In determining if your employment advances the public interest, we may consider: your performance and conduct; the needs and interests of the agency; whether your continued employment would advance organizational goals of the agency or the Government; and whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service.

Upon completion of your trial period your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest.

As a Trial Attorney, the incumbent: Prepares for and conducts hearings, settlement negotiations or trials of cases that may involve difficult and complex factual situations. Prepares memoranda such as pleadings, motions, briefs, and other documents on the basis of factual and legal research. Participates in pretrial and prehearing conferences. Conducts trials or presents oral arguments in federal courts, state courts and administrative proceedings, as appropriate. Examines formal filings for legal sufficiency.

Reviews submissions of party representatives to ensure procedural requirements are met. Responds to inquiries from the White House, Congress, federal departments and agencies, state and local authorities, and private individuals on matters within scope of assigned statutory responsibilities. Maintains personal contacts and works closely with officials and employees of the Division, officials and employees of the Department and other government agencies and the public on litigation and policy-related matters.

This is not a remote location position. You will be required to work in person five days a week.