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Federal Attorney Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Associate Attorney

Portland, OR ยท On-site

$85K - $98K/yr

The Associate Attorney position is a two-year position with the possibility of promotion and ... Represent CFS and clients in state and federal rulemaking and agency engagement * Maintain and ...

Deputy District Attorney 2

Corvallis, OR ยท On-site

$96K - $146K/yr

Ongoing compliance with all Federal, State and Local statutes. The Ideal Candidate: * Will be a competent trial attorney, who enjoys trying cases to the court or jury. * Have an interest in becoming ...

Collaborate on federal, state, and local regulations related to senior living, healthcare, labor ... of attorney, and similar forms to understand authority and decision processes * Collaborate with ...

Collaborate on federal, state, and local regulations related to senior living, healthcare, labor ... of attorney, and similar forms to understand authority and decision processes * Collaborate with ...

Trial Attorney

Portland, OR ยท On-site

$140 - $202/hr

Because our attorneys are not billed by the hour, you have the opportunity to focus on strategy and ... You can also start a savings account or consider financing through our State Farm Federal Credit ...

Life Sciences Attorney (Remote)

OR ยท On-site +1

$309K/yr

We are seeking both experienced Promotional Review lawyers and Market Access lawyers who have at ... the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FDCA), federal and state Anti-Kickback Statutes ...

Showing results 21-40

Federal Attorney information

See Oregon salary details

$48.6K

$114.4K

$182.4K

How much do federal attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for federal attorney in Oregon is $114,356.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,600.00 and $137,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a federal attorney?

Federal attorneys are lawyers who represent the United States government in legal matters at the federal level. They may work for various federal agencies, including the Department of Justice, and handle cases involving federal laws and regulations. Their duties can include prosecuting federal crimes, defending the government in civil lawsuits, and providing legal advice to federal agencies. Federal attorneys play a crucial role in upholding the rule of law and ensuring that the government's actions comply with legal standards.

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

To thrive as a Federal Attorney, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, bar admission, and a solid grasp of federal laws, legal research, and litigation practices. Familiarity with legal research databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis and proficiency with case management systems are commonly required. Exceptional analytical thinking, written and verbal communication, and ethical judgment help set outstanding attorneys apart. These skills and qualifications are critical for effectively representing the government, interpreting complex statutes, and ensuring justice within the federal legal system.

What are some common challenges faced by federal attorneys when handling complex cases?

Federal attorneys often manage cases that involve intricate statutes, regulatory frameworks, and high volumes of evidence. One common challenge is coordinating with multiple agencies and stakeholders, which requires strong organizational and communication skills. Additionally, balancing a heavy caseload while keeping up with evolving federal laws can be demanding. Working under tight deadlines and maintaining the highest ethical standards are also integral to success in this role.

What is the difference between Federal Attorney vs Public Defender?

AspectFederal AttorneyPublic Defender
CredentialsJurisdiction-specific law degree, bar admission, often federal legal certificationsLaw degree, bar admission, specialized in criminal defense
Work EnvironmentFederal courts, government agencies, legal officesPublic defense offices, courts, legal aid organizations
Employer & IndustryFederal government, U.S. Department of Justice, federal agenciesGovernment-funded public defender offices, non-profit legal organizations
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Federal Attorneys and Public Defenders both work within the legal system but serve different roles. Federal Attorneys represent the government in federal cases, focusing on prosecution or legal advice for federal agencies. Public Defenders defend individuals accused of crimes who cannot afford private attorneys. While both require law degrees and bar admission, their work environments and employer types differ significantly, with Federal Attorneys working primarily for government agencies and Public Defenders serving in public defense roles.

What are the most commonly searched types of Federal Attorney jobs in Oregon?

The most popular types of Federal Attorney jobs in Oregon are:

What are popular job titles related to Federal Attorney jobs in Oregon?

For Federal Attorney jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Oregon are hiring for Federal Attorney jobs?

Cities in Oregon with the most Federal Attorney job openings:

Infographic showing various Federal Attorney job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,356 per year, or $55 per hour.

Chief Attorney

Metropolitan Public Defender Service Inc

Portland, OR โ€ข On-site

$130K - $174K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

MPD has been on the cutting edge of public defense since our inception in 1971. Formed as a non-profit law firm, MPD contracts with the State of Oregon for public defense services. MPD was the first public defender organization under this system. MPD is the largest single provider of trial level public defense services in the state of Oregon, with offices in both Multnomah and Washington counties.

Join our dynamic team and a part of MPD’s commitment to being a leader in public defense which includes not just excellence in client representation but a strong commitment to hiring and developing a professional staff of defenders. For more information on MPD and our work visit:www.mpdlaw.com

MPD is currently searching for a Chief Attorney to join our Multnomah County Office. The Chief Attorney is a management position that represents MPD in policy and operation discussions with criminal legal system stakeholders regarding issues and processes related to their supervised unit. This position manages a team of 8-12 attorneys with caseloads. The Chief Attorney mentors and trains all team members on a continuing basis, including staffing cases, trial observations, regular check-ins, and other related supervision. In addition to the management and policy responsibilities, the Chief Attorney will also handle a misdemeanor or felony caseload of 0.25-0.75, depending on team. This position receives general supervision from the Multnomah County Director.

This position pays $130,153.66 - $174,175.04 per year. Staff is an at-will employee. This is a full-time, in-office exempt position.

In addition to compensation, MPD also offers:

  • Medical (choice of PPO or HDHP), Dental (choice of PPO Base or PPO Enhanced) and Vision
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Basic Life, STD, LTD and AD&D – 100% employer paid
  • 401(K) – MPD will contribute 6% of your annual salary with full vesting after the completion of 5 years of service
  • PTO – 24 hours upon hire, accrues monthly up to 80 hours and increasing up to 120 hours starting at 24 months
  • 10 paid holidays + 2 Personal Equity Days
  • 4 Mental Health Days per year
  • Sick Leave – 48 hours upon hire + accrues monthly after the completion of six months of employment

Position Qualifications

  • Must be a current member of the Oregon State Bar in good standing or eligible for reciprocity admission.
  • Experience working in indigent criminal defense.
  • OPDC qualified to handle misdemeanor and felony cases
  • Ability to travel to and work within criminal justice system facilities and to testify in court without impeachment

Position Preferences

  • Excellent organizational and time management skills and attention to detail, with a proven ability to meet deadlines
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to lead by example in the handling of work assignments, as well as in the treatment of staff and others in the criminal justice system.
  • Experience with training, coaching and/or supervision
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Work Environment:

  • MPD fosters a work environment that is friendly, cooperative, and respectful.
  • Work is generally sedentary and in an office setting, courthouse, or jail facility.
  • Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times.
  • This is an in-person/in-office position.

Application Process:

  • Submit a resume and cover letter on why you are interested in this position and/or in support of public defense.

Diversity and Inclusion: At MPD, we do not just accept difference; we value it and support it to create a culture of dignity and respect for all our staff.

MPD is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, military status, national origin, or any other characteristic protected under federal, state, or applicable local law.

Accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act: We gladly provide reasonable accommodation to anyone whose specific disability prevents them from completing an application or participating in this recruitment process. Please contact Human Resources in advance to request assistance.