1

Contract Attorney Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Our Legal team is seeking an Attorney (Contract Employee) to support our portfolio of public service campaigns. This role will report to the Chief Legal Officer (CLO) and partner closely with cross ...

Role Title: Funds Attorney Role Type: Contractor Location: Remote We are seeking seasoned Funds ... In this role, you will review, assess, and contribute to contract redlining workflows used to train ...

As Attorney IV, you will provide senior-level legal support to the Court Services and Offender ... Conducting legal research and reviewing policies, contracts, and regulations * Drafting formal ...

As Attorney IV, you will provide senior-level legal support to the Court Services and Offender ... Conducting legal research and reviewing policies, contracts, and regulations * Drafting formal ...

340B - Lawyer/Paralegal

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$50 - $125/hr

Contract Attorney or Paralegal - 340B Program (Remote) Remote (Any State License Accepted) Employment Type: Contract (Set your own hours for a project) About the Role: We are seeking a highly skilled ...

Legal AI Trainer - Remote

Washington, DC ยท Remote

$80 - $105/hr

Role Title: Funds Attorney Role Type: Contractor Location: Remote We are seeking seasoned Funds ... In this role, you will review, assess, and contribute to contract redlining workflows used to train ...

340B - Lawyer/Paralegal

Washington, DC ยท Remote

$80K - $107K/yr

Contract Attorney or Paralegal - 340B Program (Remote) Remote (Any State License Accepted) Employment Type: Contract (Set your own hours for a project) About the Role: We are seeking a highly skilled ...

340B - Lawyer/Paralegal

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$50 - $125/hr

Contract Attorney or Paralegal - 340B Program (Remote) Remote (Any State License Accepted) Employment Type: Contract (Set your own hours for a project) About the Role: We are seeking a highly skilled ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Contract Attorney information

See Reston, VA salary details

$54.2K

$124.2K

$208.5K

How much do contract attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract attorney in Reston, VA is $124,226.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,300.00 and $144,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Contract Attorney vs Staff Attorney?

AspectContract AttorneyStaff Attorney
CredentialsJuris Doctor (JD), licensed to practice lawJuris Doctor (JD), licensed to practice law
Work EnvironmentTemporary, project-based, often remote or on-siteFull-time, permanent, typically office-based
Employer & Industry UsageLaw firms, corporations, government agencies for specific projectsLaw firms, legal departments, courts for ongoing legal work
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Contract Attorneys are hired for specific projects or durations, offering flexibility and specialized expertise. Staff Attorneys hold permanent positions within organizations, providing ongoing legal support. Both roles require a JD and legal licensure but differ mainly in employment type and work setting.

What Is a Contract Attorney?

A contract attorney conducts research, prepares legal documents, and represents clients in a court of law. Contract attorneys are not permanent employees of law firms; they handle cases on behalf of law firms on a case-by-case basis. Much like standard attorneys, contract attorneys may specialize in a specific legal area, such as corporate law, family law, or criminal law. Law firms expect contract attorneys to uphold the same legal standards as traditional attorneys.

What are contract attorneys?

Contract attorneys are legal professionals who are hired on a temporary basis to perform specific legal tasks or projects for law firms, corporations, or government agencies. They may handle duties such as document review, legal research, drafting contracts, or assisting with litigation. Unlike full-time associates, contract attorneys typically work on a project-by-project basis, offering flexibility for both the attorney and the employer. This role can be ideal for those seeking diverse experiences or a more flexible work schedule.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Contract Attorney, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Attorney, you need a solid understanding of contract law, strong legal research abilities, and a Juris Doctor (JD) degree with bar admission. Proficiency with legal research databases such as Westlaw or LexisNexis, and familiarity with document management systems, are typically required. Exceptional attention to detail, negotiation skills, and clear written and verbal communication distinguish top performers in this field. These skills are crucial for drafting, reviewing, and interpreting complex contracts while protecting clients' interests and minimizing legal risks.

What are the typical challenges a Contract Attorney faces when managing multiple clients or cases simultaneously?

Contract Attorneys often juggle several assignments from various clients or law firms, which can present challenges in time management, prioritization, and maintaining clear communication. Each client may have different expectations, document management systems, and deadlines, making it essential to stay organized and proactive in scheduling. Developing strong project management skills and using legal technology tools can help Contract Attorneys efficiently track tasks, ensure confidentiality, and meet deliverables across diverse projects.
What are the most commonly searched types of Attorney jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of Attorney jobs in Reston, VA are:
What are popular job titles related to Contract Attorney jobs in Reston, VA? For Contract Attorney jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Contract Attorney jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Attorney jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Contract Attorney jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Contract Attorney job openings:
Infographic showing various Contract Attorney job openings in Reston, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 8% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $124,226 per year, or $59.7 per hour.

Government Contracts & National Security Associate Attorney

Pernini Legal, LLC

Washington, DC โ€ข On-site

$260K - $365K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

GOVERNMENT CONTRACTS & NATIONAL SECURITY ASSOCIATE ATTORNEY
Government Contracts & National Security Practice Group
Location: Washington, D.C.
A leading AmLaw 100 firm is seeking a talented mid-level Associate Attorney to join its highly regarded Government Contracts & National Security practice in Washington, D.C. This practice is widely recognized for its market-leading work across litigation, investigations, export controls, cybersecurity, mergers and acquisitions, and regulatory counseling. The team advises prominent clients in the aerospace, defense, and technology sectors on complex, high-stakes matters, including bid protests, government investigations, and cutting-edge transactional issues involving federal funding and national security concerns.
Candidate Profile
  • JD from a top-tier law school with an excellent academic record.
  • Active Bar Admission in Washington, D.C., in good standing.
  • 3+ years of substantive experience in government contracts law
  • Demonstrated experience or strong interest in government contracts, including litigation, investigations, or regulatory counseling
  • Strong research, writing, and analytical skills, with the ability to manage complex legal issues
  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment
  • Experience with mergers, acquisitions, or transactional matters involving government contractors (including due diligence, purchase agreements, and novations) is a plus
  • Judicial clerkship experience with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit or the Court of Federal Claims is highly valued
  • Academic training or coursework in government contracts law is a plus
  • Large law firm experience preferred

Key Responsibilities
  • Handle a broad range of government contracts matters, including bid protests, litigation, and internal or government-facing investigations
  • Advise clients on compliance with federal procurement regulations, grant requirements, and national security-related laws
  • Support transactional matters involving government contractors, including M&A diligence and regulatory approvals
  • Assist in negotiating complex agreements with government agencies, including OTAs, CRADAs, and TIAs
  • Counsel clients on federal funding programs, including compliance with statutes such as the Inflation Reduction Act and CHIPS Act
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to address regulatory, transactional, and enforcement risks

Why Join Us?
This is an opportunity to join a nationally recognized Government Contracts & National Security team at the forefront of issues impacting global security, innovation, and public policy. The practice offers exposure to sophisticated, high-value matters that are often closely tied to current geopolitical and economic developments. Attorneys benefit from a collaborative environment, meaningful client interaction, and strong mentorship, providing an excellent platform for professional growth and advancement.
Compensation & Benefits
Compensation: Includes an expected salary range of $260,000 - $365,000, commensurate with experience, bonus eligibility, and profit-sharing.
Benefits: Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance; FSA/HSA plans; 401(k) retirement plan; PTO; paid parental leave; commuter benefits; and professional development resources.
Additional Perks: Include pet insurance, health advocates, flex-time and compressed work schedules, adoption and surrogacy reimbursement, fertility treatments benefits, and full-time and back-up child care, among others.
Application Requirements
Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and law school transcript for consideration.
Our client is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
#LI-DNP