The Register of Copyrights (the Register) is the director of the U.S. Copyright Office, the principal federal agency that administers the U.S. Copyright Act. The Register is responsible for administering the provisions of copyright and related laws set out in Title 17 of the United States Code.
Summary
The Register of Copyrights (the Register) is the director of the U.S. Copyright Office, the principal federal agency that administers the U.S. Copyright Act. The Register is responsible for administering the provisions of copyright and related laws set out in Title 17 of the United States Code.
Anyone may apply - By law, employment at most U.S. Government agencies, including the Library of Congress, is limited to U.S. citizens. However, non-citizens may be hired, provided that other legal requirements are met and the Library determines there are no qualified U.S. citizens available for the position.
The Register of Copyrights is appointed by the Librarian of Congress, and acts under the Librarian’s general direction and supervision. The law directs the Register to advise Congress on national and international issues related to copyright matters, provide information and assistance to other federal agencies and the judiciary, participate in meetings of international intergovernmental organizations and meetings with foreign government officials, conduct studies and programs regarding copyright, and to perform other functions Congress may direct or as may be appropriate in furtherance of the functions identified in 17 U.S.C. 701. Empowered to make office-wide, day-to-day decisions consistent with the Librarian's executive direction and established Library policies. Monitors and oversees the management and progress of subordinate units to ensure the organization's overall mission and strategic objectives are met. Responsible for allocating financial and other resources to ensure the organization's programmatic mission and objectives are met. Oversees Copyright Office employees performing a wide range of public services, including functions such as registration, recordation, statutory licensing, law and policy, public information and education, operations, and modernization program activities. The Register keeps the Librarian informed of significant developments affecting Office operations.
Full responsibility for the oversight, administration and operations of the Office. Directly responsible for planning, reviewing, monitoring, and directing overall programmatic and operations consistent with copyright law, the Office’s mission, and the Library of Congress’s (LOC’s) strategic plan. Primarily responsible for the direction and management of large-scale operations to efficiently and effectively achieve specified goals and objectives. Evaluates current and proposed programs and operations, and initiates, modifies, recommends, or discontinues actions as appropriate.
Responsible for the formulation and administration of policies affecting the mission of the Office. Advises Congress on the need for changes in legislation relating to copyright and, as directed by Congress, produces studies on timely topics with recommendations for congressional action. Consults formally and informally through hearings and otherwise with interested members of the public, bar committees, representatives of authors and other creators, representatives of the educational and library communities, representatives of the creative industries, and legal professionals concerning the need for legislative, policy, and administrative changes. Testifies before committees of Congress and prepares statements and opinions concerning proposed legislation. Devises methods and procedures to implement enacted legislation.
Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with various high-level individuals, including Members of Congress and their staff, other legislative and executive agencies, executives of major corporations and trade associations, and distinguished members of the public. Establishes and maintains close and cooperative working relationships with the Librarian and senior Library officials and other institutions with related interests, and works to advance the programs and objectives of the U.S. copyright system. Actively participates in boards and committees as the Library of Congress representative.
Oversees the human resource management functions relative to the staff supervised. Establishes performance expectations for staff members, which are clearly communicated. Actions include providing informal feedback, periodically evaluating staff on organizational performance, resolving informal complaints, and taking personnel actions and implementing disciplinary measures as necessary. Provides advice and counsel to staff members and subordinate managers related to work and policy matters, and reviews and approves or disapproves leave requests. Ensures that organization staff at all levels are trained and fully comply with the provisions of the safety regulations.
Serves as primary advisor to Congress on copyright law and related matters. Advice and assistance is provided to other federal agencies and the judiciary. Provides advice to the LOC on issues or programs that may have copyright implications, and advises on the appropriate methods and techniques to use to achieve program goals and objectives.
Advises other U.S. Government officials on questions concerning copyright treaties, proclamations, and conventions and whether the United States should advocate for or become a party to such agreements.
See requirements listed below under Qualifications Required.
Your resume is important to this application process. It will be reviewed to determine whether you possess the qualifications referenced above. All applicants are required to submit a resume that provides specific information (to include accomplishments, work experience and education/training) that clearly describes what you would bring to the position.
The Supervisor leads his/her staff toward meeting the Library’s vision, mission, and goals by acting decisively, leveraging diversity and inclusiveness, demonstrating flexibility and resilience, fostering continuous improvement and innovation, and fostering integrity and honesty. To view the Library’s Supervisory Core Competencies click the following link: http://www.loc.gov/hr/employment/uploads/loc_supervisor_core_competencies.pdf.
Qualifications
The competencies below are required for this position. Those marked with a double asterisk (**) are considered the most critical competencies for this position.
A candidate's resume must show they possess an LL.B. or J.D., or higher degree from a full course of study in a school of law accredited by the American Bar Association or a state-accredited school of law and be a current active (or equivalent) member in good standing of the bar of a state, the District of Columbia, a territory of the United States, or the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico AND show a proven record of accomplishment that clearly demonstrates he or she has:
Ability to lead, manage and oversee the administrative and/or operational programs of an office or agency**: The person in this position must have the ability to lead, manage and oversee the administrative and/or operational programs of an office or agency. This includes the ability to accomplish strategic and organizational goals by ensuring the effective interaction and integration of processes; delegating and managing multiple tasks; and planning and organizing resources, people, and activities effectively and efficiently. This also includes the ability to take ownership of the organization’s work and results and to determine the most effective methods necessary to get things done.
Knowledge of U.S. and foreign copyright law**: The person in this position must have the ability to apply knowledge of and analyze issues related to U.S. and foreign copyright law.
Ability to develop and/or administer policies and propose legislation related to copyright**: The person in this position must have the ability to develop and/or administer policies, propose legislation, and prepare statements and opinions related to copyright and affecting the mission of USCO.
Ability to lead a diverse workforce: The person in this position must have the ability to lead a diverse workforce including: managing and resolving conflict; fostering an inclusive workplace where diversity and individual differences are valued; developing others and inspiring and fostering team building.
Ability to convey legal analysis and information orally through briefings, consultations and other presentations: The person in this position must have the ability to convey legal analysis and information orally through briefings, consultations and other presentations.
Ability to communicate in writing and review the writing of others: The person in this position must have the ability to communicate in writing and review the writing of others.
Ability to serve as a liaison, build coalitions and interact collaboratively with others: The person in this position must have the ability to communicate effectively in both formal and informal settings with colleagues and others. This includes the ability to represent, present, negotiate, defend, explain, advocate and express facts and ideas in a convincing manner in order to negotiate with individuals and groups in a manner that influences them to support a program and achieve results; developing and maintaining coalitions with other organizations. This includes the ability to lead and effect change in carrying out the organizational mission; championing ideas that promote the mission with enthusiasm, conviction, and assertiveness; gaining support and commitment from others; motivating and inspiring others to improve work efficiencies, productivity, and customer service.
Ability to communicate effectively other than in writing: The person in this position must have the ability to speak articulately, clearly, politely, and under control to others to both provide and seek information. This also includes targeting the amount, style and content of the information to the needs of the receiver, actively listening to and understanding information; and listening to and answering questions thoughtfully and completely.
Education
Applicants must possess an LL.B. or J.D., or higher degree from a full course of study in a school of law accredited by the American Bar Association or a state-accredited school of law and be a current active (or equivalent) member in good standing of the bar of a state, the District of Columbia, a territory of the United States, or the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico.
Appointees must maintain active membership in good standing of the bar throughout their employment.
Applicants for vacancies with education, licensing, and/or certification requirements must submit copies of their documentation. These (official or unofficial) documents may be scanned or mailed to the Staffing Specialist or hand-delivered to the Interview Panel. They must be received prior to a full interview. Applicants who do not submit the required documentation will not be interviewed and will be disqualified from further consideration. Official documentation will be required if selected for the position. Failure to complete all mandatory sections of the on-line application form or failure to submit a resume will disqualify applicants from further consideration for the vacancy for which they are applying.
Additional information
All initial appointments, permanent or indefinite, to the Library of Congress require completion of a one-year probationary period. In addition, all newly appointed Senior Level executives, from outside the Library as well as from within, must serve a one year probationary period in accordance with the Library of Congress Regulations (LCRs) 2017.2-1, Senior Level Executive System.
The Library of Congress is the national library of the United States and is part of the Legislative Branch of the Federal government. As such, all positions are in the excepted service.
Appointment/retention is subject to a favorable evaluation of an appropriate personnel security/suitability investigation.
Appointee must meet eligibility requirements for a Top Secret clearance.
This is a supervisory, non-bargaining unit position.
The position description number is 396670.
The Library of Congress is an equal opportunity employer. All who meet the eligibility requirements are encouraged to apply.
Applicants must submit a complete application package that is received by the closing date of this announcement.
This agency provides reasonable accommodation to applicants with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process, please email ADA@loc.gov. The decision on granting reasonable accommodation will be determined on a case-by-case basis.
The Library of Congress may offer repayment for all or part of federally insured student loans. However, not all service units within the Library of Congress participates in the repayment of federally insured student loans. Therefore, determination to repay a federally insured student loan is subject to approval by the appropriate service unit.
The selected applicant will be required to file a financial disclosure statement with the House of Representatives, U.S. Congress, in accordance with the provisions of Public Law 95-521, the Ethics in Government Act of 1978.
Are you a veteran? Please indicate the type of veterans' preference you are claiming in your application materials and/or applicant profile and provide the appropriate supporting documentation to validate your claim. Those applying for 5-point preference must submit Member Copy 4 of your DD 214. Those applying for 10-point preference must fill out an SF-15 (click here for the form) and provide the required documentation listed on the back of the form. If required supporting documentation is not attached, Veterans' Preference will not be considered in the application process.
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
How you will be evaluated
You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.
The Library of Congress will evaluate applicants using the information provided in your resume. Reviews are intended to explore applicants' experience, knowledge, and training directly related to the job in order to identify the best qualified applicants for selection. For Senior Level positions, applicants do not need to respond to specific competency questions but will be requested to answer one question related to how they became aware of this job opportunity. To preview questions please click here.
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
Current or former federal employees must submit their most recent Notification of Personnel Action (SF-50 or equivalent).
Applicants with disabilities may be considered under special hiring procedures and must submit an appropriate certificate of eligibility when applying for this position. The proof or disability/certification may be issued by the State Vocational Rehabilitation Office, Disability Services or Career Services office of the applicant’s college or university, or the Department of Veterans Affairs. The letter must verify that the applicant has a severe disability and must be dated within three years of the date of the application. The program does not accept certification from health care providers. For more information contact the Library's Office of Equal Employment Opportunity and Diversity Programs at 202-707-6024 or email spp@loc.gov. FAILURE TO SUBMIT YOUR CERTIFICATION WILL CAUSE YOUR APPLICATION TO NOT BE CONSIDERED UNDER THE SELECTIVE PLACEMENT PROGRAM.
If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:
Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
Please carefully follow all instructions under the How to Apply tab to ensure that you are considered for the position.
Step 1: If you do not already have one, create a resume on USAJOBS. Although you must enter your Social Security Number for USAJOBS, this information will not be provided to the Library of Congress.
Step 2: Review the Job Announcement. We recommend you go to the Qualifications and Evaluations section of the job announcement to review the qualifications listed to ensure that your resume reflects your accomplishments in those areas.
Step 3: Click on the "APPLY ONLINE" button to the right of this announcement. Follow USAJOBS' instructions to access your account and submit your resume. You will be redirected to the Hiring Management website to complete the application process. If this is your first time in Hiring Management, you will be asked to answer questions related to your eligibility for Federal employment. You will be able to update this information and save it to our account for future announcements.
Step 4: Click on "Finish" after you have completed your application. Once you have submitted your application, you can check your status online through your Hiring Management or MY USAJOBS account. If you are experiencing any technical difficulty with the online process, you MUST CONTACT THE POINT OF CONTACT FOR THIS ANNOUNCEMENT BEFORE THE CLOSING DATE. For all technical issues please contact jobhelp@loc.gov , no later than 4:30pm EST of the Closing Date.
LIBRARY OF CONGRESS
101 Independence Ave. SE
LM-107
Washington, District of Columbia 20540
United States
Next steps
Please review our evaluation process under Qualifications and Evaluations. You may check the status of your application for this position at any time by logging onto the USAJOBS "My USAJOBS" tab and clicking on "My Applications." You will receive final notification via e-mail when the vacancy has been filled.
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
Current or former federal employees must submit their most recent Notification of Personnel Action (SF-50 or equivalent).
Applicants with disabilities may be considered under special hiring procedures and must submit an appropriate certificate of eligibility when applying for this position. The proof or disability/certification may be issued by the State Vocational Rehabilitation Office, Disability Services or Career Services office of the applicant’s college or university, or the Department of Veterans Affairs. The letter must verify that the applicant has a severe disability and must be dated within three years of the date of the application. The program does not accept certification from health care providers. For more information contact the Library's Office of Equal Employment Opportunity and Diversity Programs at 202-707-6024 or email spp@loc.gov. FAILURE TO SUBMIT YOUR CERTIFICATION WILL CAUSE YOUR APPLICATION TO NOT BE CONSIDERED UNDER THE SELECTIVE PLACEMENT PROGRAM.
If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:
Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
Please carefully follow all instructions under the How to Apply tab to ensure that you are considered for the position.
Step 1: If you do not already have one, create a resume on USAJOBS. Although you must enter your Social Security Number for USAJOBS, this information will not be provided to the Library of Congress.
Step 2: Review the Job Announcement. We recommend you go to the Qualifications and Evaluations section of the job announcement to review the qualifications listed to ensure that your resume reflects your accomplishments in those areas.
Step 3: Click on the "APPLY ONLINE" button to the right of this announcement. Follow USAJOBS' instructions to access your account and submit your resume. You will be redirected to the Hiring Management website to complete the application process. If this is your first time in Hiring Management, you will be asked to answer questions related to your eligibility for Federal employment. You will be able to update this information and save it to our account for future announcements.
Step 4: Click on "Finish" after you have completed your application. Once you have submitted your application, you can check your status online through your Hiring Management or MY USAJOBS account. If you are experiencing any technical difficulty with the online process, you MUST CONTACT THE POINT OF CONTACT FOR THIS ANNOUNCEMENT BEFORE THE CLOSING DATE. For all technical issues please contact jobhelp@loc.gov , no later than 4:30pm EST of the Closing Date.
LIBRARY OF CONGRESS
101 Independence Ave. SE
LM-107
Washington, District of Columbia 20540
United States
Next steps
Please review our evaluation process under Qualifications and Evaluations. You may check the status of your application for this position at any time by logging onto the USAJOBS "My USAJOBS" tab and clicking on "My Applications." You will receive final notification via e-mail when the vacancy has been filled.
Fair and transparent
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
