ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Federal Government Attorney Jobs (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsFederal Government Attorney Jobs

Federal Government Attorney information

See salary details

$38.5K

$90.2K

$146.5K

How much do federal government attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for federal government attorney in the United States is $90,223.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,500.00 and $97,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Federal Government Attorney vs State Government Attorney?

AspectFederal Government AttorneyState Government Attorney
CredentialsJurisdiction-specific law degree, bar admissionJurisdiction-specific law degree, bar admission
Work EnvironmentFederal agencies, courts, departmentsState agencies, courts, departments
Employer & IndustryU.S. government, federal legal systemState government, state legal system
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Federal Government Attorneys work within federal agencies and courts, handling cases and legal matters at the national level. State Government Attorneys serve within state agencies and courts, focusing on state laws and issues. Both roles require similar credentials but differ mainly in jurisdiction and scope of work.

What is a federal government attorney?

A federal government attorney is a lawyer who works for the United States government, representing federal agencies, departments, or the government itself in legal matters. These attorneys handle a wide range of cases, including civil, criminal, regulatory, and administrative law. They may provide legal advice, draft legislation, litigate in federal courts, or help enforce federal laws. Federal government attorneys can work in agencies such as the Department of Justice, the Department of Homeland Security, or the Environmental Protection Agency, among others. Their work is crucial in ensuring the federal government operates within the bounds of the law.

What are the most common challenges faced by Federal Government Attorneys in their daily work?

Federal Government Attorneys often navigate complex regulations and must remain up-to-date with frequently changing laws and policies. Balancing a high caseload while ensuring thorough legal research and compliance with strict ethical standards can be demanding. Additionally, collaborating with multiple agencies and stakeholders requires strong communication skills and adaptability. These challenges are balanced by the opportunity to work on impactful cases and contribute to the public good.

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

To thrive as a Federal Government Attorney, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, active bar membership, and a strong understanding of federal laws and regulations. Familiarity with legal research databases (such as Westlaw or LexisNexis), case management systems, and sometimes security clearance are typically required. Outstanding analytical thinking, ethical judgment, and communication skills are crucial for effective advocacy and collaboration. These competencies ensure sound legal advice, uphold public trust, and support effective government operations.
More about Federal Government Attorney jobs
What cities are hiring for Federal Government Attorney jobs? Cities with the most Federal Government Attorney job openings:
What states have the most Federal Government Attorney jobs? States with the most job openings for Federal Government Attorney jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Federal Government Attorney jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Federal Government Attorney jobs are:
Federal Government Attorney jobs near you
Infographic showing various Federal Government Attorney job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% Internship, 22% As Needed, 50% Full Time, 11% Temporary, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,223 per year, or $43.4 per hour.
ATTORNEY-ADVISOR (CONTRACT)

ATTORNEY-ADVISOR (CONTRACT)

US Department of the Air Force

West Chester, OH • On-site

$143K/yr

Other

Posted yesterday

Job description

The primary purpose of this position is:??The Office of the General Counsel (Acquisition, Technology and Logistics) serves its client, the Department of the Air Force, by providing members of the Secretariat, Air Staff, Assistant Secretary (Acquisition, Technology and Logistics), Program Executive Officers (PEOs), and field level offices with actionable, candid, and independent legal advice and counsel.Qualifications:GENERAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • You MUST have successfully completed a full course of study in a school of law accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA) and have the first professional law degree (LLB or JD). NOTE: You must provide a copy of your Official College Transcripts
  • In addition, at the time of application, you must provide proof, dated within four months of application, of "active" status with a bar of the highest court of a State, U.S. commonwealth, U.S. territory, or the District of Columbia. On-line information is allowed as long as it shows that you are in "active" status.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: In addition to the basic requirement, applicants must have at least (3) years of professional legal experience that commensurate with the position's duties and responsibilities.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs): Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the following areas:
1. Superior knowledge of applicable substantive federal laws, regulations, and policies with specific focus on government acquisition, intellectual property and defense industrial base matters.
2. Knowledge of the role and duties of a senior government attorney.
3. Ability to successfully accomplish specialized projects and resolve novel problems by applying facts to applicable law to achieve Air Force objectives.
4. Skilled in various research methodologies, including computer-assisted technologies; ability to gather, analyze, and coherently communicate data involving complex legal issues and theories.
5. Knowledge of communication methodologies and staffing processes peculiar to the legal profession.
6. Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; skilled at communicating, coordinating, and collaborating in order to foster effective working relationships.
At the time of application, you must provide proof, dated within four months of application, of "active" status and in good standing with a bar of the highest court of a State, US commonwealth, US territory, or the District of Columbia. On-line information is allowed as long as it shows that you are in "active" status and dated within four months of application.
PART-TIME OR UNPAID EXPERIENCE: Credit will be given for appropriate unpaid and or part-time work. You must clearly identify the duties and responsibilities in each position held and the total number of hours per week.
VOLUNTEER WORK EXPERIENCE: Refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service Programs (i.e., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student and social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge and skills that can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
OTHER CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT
This position is designated as a Testing Designated Position (TDP) under the Air Force Civilian Drug Testing Program illegal drug use by employees in sensitive positions present a clear threat to the mission of the Air Force, national security, and public safety. It is required that you (a) refrain from use of illegal drugs and (b) if requested, submit to urinalysis testing.Education:Must be a graduate of a law school accredited by the American Bar Association, and be currently licensed as an attorney, in active (or equivalent) status and in good standing, with the bar of a U.S. state, territory, or commonwealth. The attorney must maintain such bar membership in at least one jurisdiction during the entire course of employment with the Air Force.Employment Type: OTHER

Apply