Assistant General Counsel (Administrative Law)
Department: Department of Justice
Location(s): Washington, District of Columbia
Salary Range: $102415 - $197200 Per Year
Job Summary: Corrections professionals who foster a humane and secure environment and ensure public safety by preparing individuals for successful reentry into our communities.
Major Duties:
- The mission of the Legislative and Correctional Issues Branch (LCI) is to provide legal advice to Bureau of Prisons (BOP) staff covering a broad range of subjects, including but not limited to: federal executions; civil commitment of sexually dangerous prisoners; Special Administrative Measures preventing threats from inmates associated with violence, national security, and terrorism; Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems to detect unauthorized drones; extradition of detainees from foreign courts; federal sentencing; First Step Act of 2018 implementation; reviewing and processing compassionate release / Reduction of Sentence requests; review of internal policies as well as proposed legislation that might affect BOP operations. The incumbent works with and advises senior leaders, supervisors, and staff concerning legal aspects of, and the interpretation, applicability, and compliance with state and federal statutes and regulations, and constitutional provisions relating to the confinement of inmates. The incumbent will work closely with other divisions within BOP, Department of Justice officials, United States Attorneys Office staff and officials within the Executive Branch on statutory matters that affect the BOP and to resolve correctional issues. It is anticipated the primary focus for this Attorney position will be implementation of the First Step Act of 2018, which will involve frequent collaboration with and providing advice to Central Office, Regional Office, and institution staff working throughout the BOP. The practice areas related to this position are: Constitutional Law, Criminal Law, and Prisoners' Rights.
Qualifications: Applicants must have a J.D. degree, be an active member of the bar (any U.S. jurisdiction). Preferred qualifications: Prior experience in correctional law is preferred, but not required.
How to Apply: Applicants must submit a cover letter highlighting relevant experience, resume (not to exceed two pages), writing sample, and a list of legal references by March 08, 2026 to Paul Irby, Associate General Counsel, at pirby@bop.gov. Please include in the subject line "LCI Assistant General Counsel." Applications must be received on or before the application deadline date below: March 08, 2026 FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE REFER TO: https://www.justice.gov/legal-careers/ DO NOT SUBMIT AN APPLICATION ON-LINE. Submit a complete/detailed resume or curriculum vitae. Limit your resume to 2 pages. If the only resume(s) received is/are longer than two pages, your application is ineligible for further consideration. Address quality ranking factor, if required. Resume or curriculum vitae must contain all information listed in the Qualifications Section. Submit supporting documents (i.e. transcripts, certification, registration, and/or license, if applicable). A complete application packet (including optional questionnaire responses) MUST be submitted directly to the following email address: pirby@bop.gov
Application Deadline: 2026-05-08