You will serve as an Attorney Advisor (Veterans) for the Board of Veterans' Appeals (Board). The jurisdiction of the Board extends to all questions of law and fact under the laws that affect the provision of benefits by the Secretary to Veterans, or their dependents or survivors. This position requires expert knowledge of the laws and regulations pertaining to Veterans' benefits, as set forth primarily in Title 38 of the United States Code and Code of Federal Regulations.
Summary
You will serve as an Attorney Advisor (Veterans) for the Board of Veterans' Appeals (Board). The jurisdiction of the Board extends to all questions of law and fact under the laws that affect the provision of benefits by the Secretary to Veterans, or their dependents or survivors. This position requires expert knowledge of the laws and regulations pertaining to Veterans' benefits, as set forth primarily in Title 38 of the United States Code and Code of Federal Regulations.
Reviews the record and prepares tentative decisions on appeals for benefits for the review and approval of a Veterans Law Judge (VLJ or "Member of the Board"), including appeals involving formal personal hearings held before VLJs. At the Full Performance Level, Is assigned among the most difficult or complex cases involving appeals requiring research or involving unusual areas of the law.
Conducts research on questions encountered in case review or as directed by a VLJ. Drafts legal briefs, including bench memoranda for hearings, outlining the facts at issue, and containing recommendations for appropriate action by the VLJ.
Attends formal personal hearings with VLJs for training purposes or to assist in the preparation of a tentative decision in that appeal. May assist with pre-hearing meetings and discussions with attorneys, appellants, and veterans service organizations to assure due process of law and to expedite the hearing process.
Independently perform special assignments from the Chairman, Vice Chairman, DVC, or VLJ to assist in the continued improvement of appellate service or operations.
Provides subject matter expertise on Veterans' benefits claims and serves as a resource for answering procedural and substantive questions from junior members of the incumbent's VLJ team of attorneys.
In consultation with the VLJ, may assist with formulation written training materials, sample decisions and decision language, and other relevant documents to assist the VLJ or other members of the VLJ Team. Assists with ensuring that the VLJ and VLJ team members remain informed of changes in the statutes, regulations, and case law governing the administration of veterans' benefits.
Under the supervision of the VLJ or the direction of a senior attorney, may serve as a mentor to lower graded attorney advisors on the VLJ team and assist with training designed to develop strong interpersonal skills, time management/organizational skills, knowledge of the law, efficient claims file/evidence review, and veteran centric decision writing. May assist with career mentoring of lower graded attorney advisors on the VLJ team.
Prepares tentative decisions on cases before the Board through petition for reconsideration, when briefs or hearings show error in a prior appellate decision have been presented and where the decision requires three VLJ signatories for a de novo appellate decision.
This is a bargaining unit position.
This position is in the Excepted Service under authority 5 CFR Part 6, Exceptions from the Competitive Service, Rule VI and does not confer competitive status.
Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8:00am - 4:30pm Compressed/Flexible Schedule: May be available with supervisor approval. Telework: Available Duty Location Status: Will work remotely from home or will work from a VA owned or leased space. Position Description Title/PD#: Attorney-Advisor (Veterans)/ PD19453A, PD19454A, PD19455A, and PD19453A Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized. Financial Disclosure Report: Not Required. Physical Demands: The work is primarily sedentary. There are no special physical demands for this position.
This position is in the Excepted Service and does not confer competitive status.
Must be a citizen of, or owe allegiance to, the United States.
Selectees are subject to a background/suitability investigation.
Selectees may be required to serve a one year trial period.
Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959.
A complete application package, i.e., Resume, Transcripts, etc., as required by job announcement.
Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process.
Participation in the Seasonal Influenza Prevention Program for VHA Health Care Personnel (HCP) is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs HCP.
All applicants tentatively selected for VA employment in a testing designated position are subject to urinalysis to screen for illegal drug use prior to appointment. Applicants who refuse to be tested will be denied employment with VA.
Must be proficient in written and spoken English.
Qualifications
To qualify for this position, applicants must meet all requirements by the time of the application, 09/30/2022.
Basic Requirements:
Citizenship. Be a citizen of, or owe allegiance to, the United States.
Bar Membership Requirements. All attorneys in the GS-0905 series must be active members in good standing of the bar of a state or territory of the United States or the District of Columbia and must hold a current, unrestricted license to practice law. Employees must maintain their compliance with this requirement. The duties of the position call for appearance in court. The applicant must be a member in good standing of the bar or be eligible for admission to the bar, of the state or territory of the United States or the District of Columbia.
Loss of Good Standing/Bar Membership. Employees must maintain good standing in a bar of a state or territory of the United States or the District of Columbia while employed as an attorney with VA. Failure to maintain good standing in a bar of a state or territory of the United States, or the District of Columbia provides grounds for removal and possible termination from employment with the VA.
Applicants may qualify based on education and/or experience as described below.
Reference: VA Handbook 5005/148, Part II, Appendix F36, Qualification Standard, General Attorney, GS-0905-11/15.
Quality of Experience. For each grade, applicants must have one or a combination of the following types of Quality of Experience in the amount indicated for the Grade Determination applicable to each grade level you are applying to.
Practice of law includes private, state, or Federal practice in any field of law.
Other legal experience of a responsible nature is experience in any one or a combination of the following performed in a law office, government office, or in the legal department of a business establishment, in the armed forces, or other Federal service:
Writing authoritative or advisory legal opinions involving interpretation of state or Federal laws, regulations, and orders, or the drafting of such regulations or orders; or
Drafting, analyzing, and other legal activities with respect to bills, regulations, Executive Orders, proclamations, or statutory provisions.
Experience working in Veteran's Law.
Superior Qualification Program: Applicants may apply for the GS-11 and GS-12 level under this option and are required to furnish certification from the registrar of ranking and other attainments in law school. To meet this requirement, applicants must graduate in the upper one-third of your law class and achieve one of the following accomplishments:
Work or achievement of significance on their school's Official Law Review;
Special high-level honors for academic excellence in law school, such as election to the Order of the Coif;
Winning a moot court competition or membership on the moot court team which represents the law school in competition with other law schools;
Full-time or continuous participation in a legal aid program as opposed to intermittent or casual participation;
Significant summer law-office clerk experience; or
Other equivalent evidence of superior achievement.
Grade Determinations.
For the GS-11 level, applicants must:
(a) Possess one year of experience or less in the practice of law as described in the Quality of Experience; or
(b) Meet the qualification through the Superior Qualification Program.
For the GS-12 level, applicants must:
(a) Possess a Master of Laws (LL.M.) degree; or
(b) Possess a Juris Doctor (JD) degree in a field of law directly pertinent to the work of the position to be filled as evidenced by transcript(s); and
(c) Possess two years of progressively responsible experience as described in Quality of Experience of which a maximum of one year of the required experience may be acquired prior to admission to the bar, and that demonstrates experience performing similar legal work and responsibilities as described in Nature of Cases or Legal Problems, Type I, in the OPM Position Classification Standard for General Attorney Series, GS-0905; or
(d) Meet the qualification through the Superior Qualification Program.
Note: For the GS-12 and GS-13 grade levels, copies of official transcripts are required that include the degree awarded and the date conferred.
Education
PLEASE NOTE: Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications (particularly positions with a positive education requirement). Therefore, applicants must report only attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Applicants can verify accreditation at the following website: http://www.ed.gov/admins/finaid/accred/index.html. All education claimed by applicants will be verified by the appointing agency accordingly. If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education.
Additional information
The Career Transition Assistance Plan (CTAP) provide eligible displaced VA competitive service employees with selection priority over other candidates for competitive service vacancies. To be well-qualified, applicants must possess experience that exceeds the minimum qualifications of the position including all selective factors if applicable, and must be proficient in most of the requirements of the job. Information about CTAP eligibility is on OPM's Career Transition Resources website which can be found at https://www.opm.gov/.
Receiving Service Credit for Earning Annual (Vacation) Leave: Federal Employees earn annual leave at a rate (4, 6 or 8 hours per pay period) which is based on the number of years they have served as a Federal employee. VA may offer newly-appointed Federal employee's credit for their job-related non-federal experience or active duty uniformed military service. This credited service can be used in determining the rate at which they earn annual leave. Such credit must be requested and approved prior to the appointment date and is not guaranteed.
In accordance with 5 C.F.R. § 302.101(c), Veterans' preference applies as far as administratively feasible.
This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies.
If you are unable to apply online or need to fax a document you do not have in electronic form, view the following link for information regarding an Alternate Application.
PLEASE NOTE: This is a Bargaining unit position represented by American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), Local 17
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.
IN DESCRIBING YOUR EXPERIENCE, PLEASE BE CLEAR AND SPECIFIC. WE WILL NOT MAKE ASSUMPTIONS REGARDING YOUR EXPERIENCE.
Narrative responses are not required at this time. If you are referred for consideration, you may be asked to submit additional job related information, which may include, but not limited to; responses to the knowledge, skills and abilities; completion of a work sample, and/or contact for an interview. Your resume and/or supporting documentation will be verified. Please follow all instructions carefully. Errors or omissions may affect your rating or consideration for employment.
It is the policy of the VA to not deny employment to those that have faced financial hardships or periods of unemployment.
Veterans and Transitioning Service Members: Please visit the VA for Vets site for career-search tools for Veterans seeking employment at VA, career development services for our existing Veterans, and coaching and reintegration support for military service members.
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.
To apply for this position, you must provide a complete Application Package which includes:
Proof of Bar Admission
Law School Transcript
Resume
The following documents are accepted, and may be required if applicable to your eligibility and/or qualifications for this position. Please use this checklist to make sure you have included other documents required for your application, such as a copy of your transcript (if using education to qualify), SF-50's (current/former Federal employees), documentation to support Veterans Preference claims, or CTAP documentation (for displaced Federal employees). You will not be contacted for additional information.
DD-214/ Statement of Service
Disability Letter (VA)
Proof of Bar Admission
Law School Transcript
Resume
Separation Notice (RIF)
SF-15
SF-50/ Notification of Personnel Action
SF-50, Notification of Personnel Action:
Most recent SF-50 if you are a current or former Federal employee
SF-50's reflecting the highest grade held.
Veterans' Preference: When applying for Federal Jobs, eligible Veterans should claim preference for 5pt (TP), 10pt (CP/CPS/XP), or for Sole Survivor Preference (SSP) in the questionnaire. You must provide a legible copy of your DD214(s) which shows dates and character of service (honorable, general, etc.). If you are currently serving on active duty and expect to be released or discharged within 120 days you must submit documentation related to your active duty service which reflects the dates of service, character of service (honorable, general, etc.), and dates of impending separation. Additionally, disabled veterans and others eligible for 10-point preference (such as widows or mothers of eligible Veterans) must also submit an SF-15 "Application for 10 Point Veteran Preference" with required proof as stated on the form. Documentation is required to award preference. For more information on Veterans' Preference, please visit Feds Hire Vets - Veterans - Job Seekers - Veterans' Preference.
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.
All applicants are encouraged to apply online. To apply for this position, you must complete the questionnaire and submit the documentation specified in the Required Documents section below. The complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on 09/30/2022 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/11427394.
To begin, click Apply Online to create a USA JOBS account or log in to your existing account. Follow the prompts to select your USA JOBS resume and/or other supporting documents and complete the occupational questionnaire.
Click Submit My Answers to submit your application package.
NOTE: It is your responsibility to ensure your responses and appropriate documentation is submitted prior to the closing date.
To verify your application is complete, log into your USA JOBS account, https://my.usajobs.gov/Account/Login, select the Application Status link and then select the more information link for this position. The Application page will display the status of your application, the documentation received and processed, and any correspondence the agency has sent related to this application. Your uploaded documents may take several hours to clear the virus scan process. To return to an incomplete application, log into your USA JOBS account and click Update Application in the vacancy announcement. You must re-select your resume and/or other documents from your USA JOBS account or your application will be incomplete.
Board of Veterans' Appeals
425 I St NW
Washington, DC 20001
US
Next steps
Once your online application is submitted you will receive a confirmation notification by email. After we receive application packages (including all required documents) and the vacancy announcement closes, we will review applications to ensure qualification and eligibility requirements are met. After the review is complete, a referral certificate(s) is issued and applicants will be notified of their status by email. Referred applicants will be notified as such and may be contacted directly by the hiring office for an interview. All referred applicants receive a final notification once a selection decision has been made.
You may check the status of your application at any time by logging into your USA Jobs account and clicking on Applications. Information regarding your application status can be found in the USAJobs Help Center.
NOTE: Participation in the seasonal influenza program is a condition of employment and a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP). It is a requirement that all HCP to receive annual seasonal influenza vaccination or obtain an exemption for medical or religious reasons. Wearing a face mask is required when an exemption to the influenza vaccination has been granted. HCP in violation of this directive may face disciplinary action up to and including removal from federal service. HCP are individuals who, during the influenza season, work in VHA locations or who come into contact with VA patients or other HCP as part of their duties. VHA locations include, but are not limited to, VA hospitals and associated clinics, community living centers (CLCs), community-based outpatient clinics (CBOCs), domiciliary units, Vet centers and VA-leased medical facilities. HCP include all VA licensed and unlicensed, clinical and administrative, remote and onsite, paid and without compensation, full- and part-time employees, intermittent employees, fee basis employees, VA contractors, researchers, volunteers and health professions trainees (HPTs) who are expected to perform any or all of their work at these facilities. HPTs may be paid or unpaid and include residents, interns, fellows and students. HCP also includes VHA personnel providing home-based care to Veterans and drivers and other personnel whose duties put them in contact with patients outside VA medical facilities.
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
To apply for this position, you must provide a complete Application Package which includes:
Proof of Bar Admission
Law School Transcript
Resume
The following documents are accepted, and may be required if applicable to your eligibility and/or qualifications for this position. Please use this checklist to make sure you have included other documents required for your application, such as a copy of your transcript (if using education to qualify), SF-50's (current/former Federal employees), documentation to support Veterans Preference claims, or CTAP documentation (for displaced Federal employees). You will not be contacted for additional information.
DD-214/ Statement of Service
Disability Letter (VA)
Proof of Bar Admission
Law School Transcript
Resume
Separation Notice (RIF)
SF-15
SF-50/ Notification of Personnel Action
SF-50, Notification of Personnel Action:
Most recent SF-50 if you are a current or former Federal employee
SF-50's reflecting the highest grade held.
Veterans' Preference: When applying for Federal Jobs, eligible Veterans should claim preference for 5pt (TP), 10pt (CP/CPS/XP), or for Sole Survivor Preference (SSP) in the questionnaire. You must provide a legible copy of your DD214(s) which shows dates and character of service (honorable, general, etc.). If you are currently serving on active duty and expect to be released or discharged within 120 days you must submit documentation related to your active duty service which reflects the dates of service, character of service (honorable, general, etc.), and dates of impending separation. Additionally, disabled veterans and others eligible for 10-point preference (such as widows or mothers of eligible Veterans) must also submit an SF-15 "Application for 10 Point Veteran Preference" with required proof as stated on the form. Documentation is required to award preference. For more information on Veterans' Preference, please visit Feds Hire Vets - Veterans - Job Seekers - Veterans' Preference.
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.
All applicants are encouraged to apply online. To apply for this position, you must complete the questionnaire and submit the documentation specified in the Required Documents section below. The complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on 09/30/2022 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/11427394.
To begin, click Apply Online to create a USA JOBS account or log in to your existing account. Follow the prompts to select your USA JOBS resume and/or other supporting documents and complete the occupational questionnaire.
Click Submit My Answers to submit your application package.
NOTE: It is your responsibility to ensure your responses and appropriate documentation is submitted prior to the closing date.
To verify your application is complete, log into your USA JOBS account, https://my.usajobs.gov/Account/Login, select the Application Status link and then select the more information link for this position. The Application page will display the status of your application, the documentation received and processed, and any correspondence the agency has sent related to this application. Your uploaded documents may take several hours to clear the virus scan process. To return to an incomplete application, log into your USA JOBS account and click Update Application in the vacancy announcement. You must re-select your resume and/or other documents from your USA JOBS account or your application will be incomplete.
Board of Veterans' Appeals
425 I St NW
Washington, DC 20001
US
Next steps
Once your online application is submitted you will receive a confirmation notification by email. After we receive application packages (including all required documents) and the vacancy announcement closes, we will review applications to ensure qualification and eligibility requirements are met. After the review is complete, a referral certificate(s) is issued and applicants will be notified of their status by email. Referred applicants will be notified as such and may be contacted directly by the hiring office for an interview. All referred applicants receive a final notification once a selection decision has been made.
You may check the status of your application at any time by logging into your USA Jobs account and clicking on Applications. Information regarding your application status can be found in the USAJobs Help Center.
NOTE: Participation in the seasonal influenza program is a condition of employment and a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP). It is a requirement that all HCP to receive annual seasonal influenza vaccination or obtain an exemption for medical or religious reasons. Wearing a face mask is required when an exemption to the influenza vaccination has been granted. HCP in violation of this directive may face disciplinary action up to and including removal from federal service. HCP are individuals who, during the influenza season, work in VHA locations or who come into contact with VA patients or other HCP as part of their duties. VHA locations include, but are not limited to, VA hospitals and associated clinics, community living centers (CLCs), community-based outpatient clinics (CBOCs), domiciliary units, Vet centers and VA-leased medical facilities. HCP include all VA licensed and unlicensed, clinical and administrative, remote and onsite, paid and without compensation, full- and part-time employees, intermittent employees, fee basis employees, VA contractors, researchers, volunteers and health professions trainees (HPTs) who are expected to perform any or all of their work at these facilities. HPTs may be paid or unpaid and include residents, interns, fellows and students. HCP also includes VHA personnel providing home-based care to Veterans and drivers and other personnel whose duties put them in contact with patients outside VA medical facilities.
Fair and transparent
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
