The Constitutional and Specialized Tort Litigation (CSTL) Section is the largest section of the Torts Branch in the Civil Division, Department of Justice. CSTL includes three groups: Constitutional Torts, Vaccine Litigation, and the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) Program.
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. To qualify at the GS-11 grade level, applicants must have up to one (1) year post-J.D. legal experience. To qualify at the GS-12 grade level, applicants must have up to one (1) or more years post-J.D. legal experience, one of which was specialized experience at, or equivalent to, the GS-11 grade level. Examples of specialized experience include: performing legal analysis; composing pleadings, briefs and other court documents. Preferred qualifications: Applicants with experience or interest in administrative law, workers compensation systems, and benefits administration are preferred. The ideal applicant demonstrates capability to manage multiple assignments with short deadlines to reliable, well-supported outcomes in a high-volume and dynamic setting. 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 General Attorney, the incumbent: Conducts legal research and analysis on legal and factual issues arising in connection with claims for compensation under the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act. Researches issues of administrative law, appropriations law, federal benefits law, and other subject areas as necessary to guide determinations of entitlement to compensation. Prepares initial drafts of memoranda, briefing materials, external correspondence, and other documents related to cases filed under the RECA Program. Reviews the work of claim examiners and recommends actions in development of the administrative record to support decisions of entitlement to compensation and the amount of such compensation. Works closely with federal, state, and local agencies to collect evidence relevant to the Department's position. This is not a remote location position. You will be required to work in person five days a week.