U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

Compensation

Full Description

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Office of General Counsel - Real Property Law Group is seeking qualified Government Procurement and Real Estate Attorneys in Washington, D.C., who are dedicated to public service and supporting the interests of the VA. GS 13/14 $121,785-$187,093 (Depending on Experience) Location: On-site in DC The Department of Veterans Affairs Office of General Counsel (OGC) is seeking an attorney to serve in its Real Property Law Group. The OGC Attorney will review procurement, construction, real property, personal property, leasing, enhanced-use leasing, energy, and environmental actions and counsel clients at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Headquarters in Washington, D.C. The Attorney will also provide legal support at all levels within VA’s three administrations—the Veterans Health Administration, the Veterans Benefits Administration, and the National Cemetery Administration. The VA is the nation’s largest integrated health care system. OGC major construction and real property attorneys support the VA’s annual multi-billion-dollar construction program and provide legal and policy advice on the Department’s high visibility and complex procurement program. OGC attorneys provide technical assistance on legislative proposals, advise on pending legislation, and review Congressionally- mandated reports. Job Description/Duties: Serves as an Attorney-Advisor in the Office of the General Counsel and renders legal advice primarily with respect to the Department of Veteran Affairs major construction procurement program. The attorney will work under the general supervision of the Deputy Chief Counsel and independently plan and execute assignments in specialty areas conferring with the Deputy Chief Counsel on unusual problems and unfamiliar matters. Primary assignments will be to handle litigation of matters relating to construction, leasing and Architect-Engineer contracts. The attorney will provide advice and guidance regarding complex and controversial contract formation and administration problems on construction and Architect-Engineer contracts. Serves as trial attorney in matters filed with the Civilian Board of Contract Appeals and represents the agency in protests before the Government Accountability Office (GAO). Prepares litigation reports, coordinate documentation of facts, analysis of law, assist in depositions, production and preparation of witnesses, draft pleadings, motions and briefs and assist with other essential elements necessary for the conduct of the case. Provides assistance to the US Attorney and Department of Justice on the defense or prosecution of lawsuits in federal court involving the above areas of law. Conducts legal reviews for sufficiency of solicitations within established thresholds to ensure that the specifications conform to regulatory guidance, are clear and free from significant defects and are achievable and otherwise defensible. Reviews and evaluates the results of sealed bidding process and pre- and post- negotiating memoranda/documentation on negotiated procurements and modifications and furnishes recommendations and comments thereon. Serves as the construction law subject matter expert, providing legal guidance and assisting in the formulation of the VA’s position on all contract claims, disputes and appeals, which routinely involve complex factual and legal issues, such as differing site conditions, impact, delay, acceleration, and suspension claims. Why work at OGC? • Compressed work schedule • Opportunities for advancement towards GS-15 and SES positions • Leadership development programs offered annually • OGC offers CLE (Continuing Legal Education) qualified programs • Interact with clients and veterans • No requirement to purchase professional liability insurance Benefits: • Thrift Savings Plan (401(k) equivalent, with matching) • Dental insurance • Health insurance • Life insurance • Paid time off • Retirement plan • Vision insurance Minimum requirements: • United States Citizen • Juris Doctorate • Unrestricted license to practice law in a State