About the position
The position of Law Clerk/Attorney Advisor (General) is located within the Office of the Undersecretary, Office of General Counsel (OGC) at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) in Silver Spring, MD. This role is part of the Attorney Honors Program, which is designed for law students and recent graduates who are interested in public service and environmental law. As an Attorney-Advisor, you will collaborate closely with experienced NOAA scientists and program specialists on a variety of pressing issues related to the management and conservation of natural resources. This position requires significant interaction with other attorneys in the NOAA General Counsel Office, NOAA scientists, policymakers, technical staff, and officials from the Department of Commerce, as well as representatives from federal and state agencies, the regulated community, and public interest organizations. Your responsibilities will include active participation in prosecuting and defending cases under various federal laws, including the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, the Endangered Species Act, and the Marine Mammal Protection Act, among others. The work involves navigating complex legal issues that are critical to the agency's mission of protecting and managing the nation's natural resources. The NOAA Office of the General Counsel employs approximately 110 attorneys and provides legal advice on a wide range of issues, including fisheries, marine mammals, and coastal preservation. This position is a developmental role that offers the opportunity to gain valuable experience in environmental law and policy while contributing to NOAA's mission of enriching life through science. The NOAA is a premier environmental agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce, employing over 12,000 individuals nationwide. The agency's work spans from weather forecasting to fisheries management and coastal restoration, impacting a significant portion of the U.S. economy. As a participant in the Honors Program, you will engage in three six-month rotations in various legal sections, with the possibility of working in regional offices. At the end of the program, you will be placed in a specific legal section based on your preferences and the needs of the Office. This position is ideal for individuals who are passionate about public service and environmental law, and who are eager to contribute to the protection of natural resources.
Responsibilities
- Collaborate with NOAA scientists and program specialists on natural resource management and conservation issues.
- Participate in prosecuting and defending cases under federal environmental laws.
- Interact with various stakeholders, including other attorneys, policymakers, and public interest organizations.
- Provide legal advice on a wide range of issues related to fisheries, marine mammals, and coastal preservation.
- Engage in complex legal research and analysis to support NOAA's mission.
Requirements
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
- Must be a law student expected to receive a J.D. by June 30, 2025, or a recent law school graduate with a J.D. who will complete a judicial clerkship or relevant fellowship by September 2025.
- Significant academic achievement in law school (top 20% of class, graduation with honors, judicial clerkship experience, or participation in law review) is preferred.
- Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
- Ability to manage large projects independently and work effectively in a team.
Nice-to-haves
- Experience practicing environmental law is favorable.
- Participation in moot court or law review is a plus.
Benefits
- Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
- Health, life, dental, vision, and long-term care insurance.
- Flexible spending accounts.
- Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System.
- Telework options available with supervisor approval.
