Supervisory Attorney Advisor

Closing Date: 27th January, 2026

Description:

About the Office:
This position is open to current Federal Government attorneys-only.
The Office of the Pardon Attorney (PARDON) fulfills the duties of the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) in support of the President's clemency power under Article II, 2 of the Constitution. For over 130 years, the President has relied on the advice and assistance of the Attorney General in exercising clemency power. PARDON is the office designated to carry out this function under the direction of the Deputy Attorney General. PARDON receives petitions for executive clemency, initiates the necessary investigations, and prepares the recommendations for DOJ leadership and the President in the consideration of all forms of executive clemency, including commutation of sentence, pardon, reprieve, remission of fine, and commutation of the penalty of death. PARDON also investigates applications for the Restoration of Firearms Rights under 18 U.S.C. 925(c). For more information about the Office, please visit our Web page at https://www.justice.gov/pardon.

Job Description:
PARDON is seeking an experienced attorney to serve in the role of Supervisory Attorney Advisor. The Supervisory Attorney Advisor will be familiar with all aspects of executive clemency and other relief programs. Among other responsibilities, the Supervisory Attorney Advisor will review and evaluate the merits of clemency and relief petitions, confer with officials of the DOJ and external agencies regarding clemency or relief applications, collect information and records related to the clemency or relief investigation, produce high-quality detailed written recommendations, and advise the Pardon Attorney, the Deputy Attorney General, and the White House on the appropriate disposition of individual petitions for clemency or relief. Supervisory Attorney Advisors will interact with petitioners and their legal representatives and must demonstrate a high level of commitment to professionalism, courtesy, and public service. The position will also serve as a first-line supervisor of a team of attorneys and potentially legal support staff, overseeing regular and special assignments, reviewing work products, and rating overall performance.

Qualifications:
Applicants must possess a J.D. degree, be an active member of the bar (any U.S. jurisdiction), have a minimum of five years of post-J.D. experience, and be a U.S. citizen. Applicants must have Federal Government attorney experience.

The work of the Supervisory Attorney Advisor requires significant attention to detail and the ability to thoroughly evaluate large case files, identify relevant issues, and recommend decisions. In addition, excellent legal research and writing skills, and exemplary judgment and discretion are required. Individuals must perform research on assigned questions of law or policy and prepare reports and memoranda for the use of senior officials of the Department. This position also requires the interpretation of Rules Governing Petitions for Executive Clemency (28 CFR 1.1 et seq.,), procedures for the Restoration of Firearms Rights under 18 U.S.C. 925(c), and other mission-critical programs of PARDON. A successful candidate will have the ability to manage a significant caseload, provide guidance and oversight to other attorneys managing significant caseloads, and work both independently and collaboratively. The Office places a premium on the commitment and ability to prioritize assignments and efficiently produce high-quality work, including substantial, appropriately focused, and well-written work products.

Applicants should also demonstrate compassion and the ability to undertake fair and balanced evaluations of applications submitted by Federal clemency and relief petitioners. This position is located in Washington, DC. This is NOT a fully remote position and employees will be required to come into the office. An out-of-area applicant who is selected for this position will be expected to relocate at their own expense. This position is telework-eligible consistent with the Office's telework policy.

Preferred Qualifications:
Federal Government supervisory experience is preferred. Applicants must have at least 5 years of experience in post-J.D., legal work. Practice experience in federal criminal law, including a thorough understanding of federal sentencing law and the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, prior federal or administrative legal experience, and excellent legal research and writing skills are also preferred qualifications. Applicants must also demonstrate exceptional communication skills and the ability to meet deadlines under pressure.

Salary:
The salary range for this position is GS-15.

Number of Positions
1

Travel:

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