The Office of the General Counsel (OGC) provides legal services to the Chairman, Commissioners, Executive Director, and all Commission Divisions regarding litigation, statutory interpretation, rulemaking, proposed legislation, and other legal matters arising under the Commodity Exchange Act (the Act). OGC addresses matters that are often novel, complex, and sensitive in nature.
Summary
The Office of the General Counsel (OGC) provides legal services to the Chairman, Commissioners, Executive Director, and all Commission Divisions regarding litigation, statutory interpretation, rulemaking, proposed legislation, and other legal matters arising under the Commodity Exchange Act (the Act). OGC addresses matters that are often novel, complex, and sensitive in nature.
This position is located in the Secretariat and Information Management Branch, Library Unit. The Law Librarian serves the entire CFTC, providing support for staff in headquarters and in the three regional offices (New York, Chicago, and Kansas City). As such, the incumbent is responsible for the full range of library services. At the full performance level these duties include working with the Senior Librarian or independently to:
Deliver advanced legal and regulatory reference services to Commission staff using specialized databases and print resources; develop and conduct training and create research guides that support legal and policy work.
Support the law library’s collection and program by acquiring, organizing, and maintaining legal and regulatory materials; recommend improvements to metadata, access, and collection development.
Manage library contracts, purchase card actions, database licenses, and vendor relationships; coordinate with IT and vendors to resolve access issues and evaluate new research resources.
Maintain and enhance the integrated library system (ILS) and electronic research tools, including troubleshooting, access management, and development of web content and digital interfaces.
Assist the Team Leader/Senior Librarian with budget planning by preparing usage data, cost analyses, and recommendations that inform resource allocation and program improvements.
Perform or lead advanced library operations, including circulation, interlibrary loan, serials control, collection maintenance, and participation in special projects to improve digital access and research services.
Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959
May be required to serve a one-year probationary period.
Qualifications
BASIC QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS
Completion of 1 full academic year of graduate study in library science in an accredited college or university, in addition to completion of all work required for a bachelor's degree; OR
A total of at least 5 years of a combination of college-level education, training, and experience. To qualify on this basis, the applicant must establish conclusively that the education, training, and experience provided a knowledge and understanding of the theories, principles, and techniques of professional librarianship; a knowledge of literature resources; and the knowledge and abilities essential for providing effective library and information services.
In addition to meeting the Basic Qualification Requirement above, candidates must also meet the specialized experience requirement below for consideration.
SPECIALIZED KNOWLEDGE REQUIREMENTS
4-year course of study in an accredited college or university that meets all academic requirements for a bachelor's degree that included at least 24 semester hours in the specialized field for which the applicant is being considered; or that included any combination of subjects with at least 15 semester hours in a major subject that is especially applicable to the position; OR
Completion of at least 24 semester hours of legal study in an accredited law school for positions primarily concerned with providing library services in law or legislative reference; OR
Four years of pertinent experience of such nature and level to provide a knowledge of the basic principles, theories, practices, techniques, terminology and expressions of the appropriate discipline or subject-matter field; an understanding of the standard methods, procedures, and techniques of research and analysis in the subject-matter field; ability to acquire additional information about the field and related fields; and some knowledge of literature resources in the field; OR
Any time equivalent combination as described in (3) with education as described in (1) or (2) above.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENT: In addition to meeting the basic requirement and specialized experience above, applicants must also meet the minimum qualification requirement listed below.
CT-11 Level: To qualify for the CT‑11 level, you must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to the CT/GS‑09 level.
Specialized experience is defined as experience that demonstrates professional knowledge of library science and involves:
Providing legal reference services;
and one or more of the following law‑library functions:
Assisting with collection development, developing or updating law‑library procedures, maintaining legal research guides; OR
Assisting users in navigating legal research tools and delivering introductory training sessions to help users improve their research skills; OR
Maintaining and updating the library website and the integrated library system (ILS); OR
Supporting acquisitions activities by monitoring orders for legal materials, preparing procurement documentation, tracking budget information, and coordinating with vendors regarding requests.
OR
3 full years of progressively higher level graduate education in library science or doctoral degree (Ph.D. or equivalent) related to the position
Or a combination of graduate level education and specialized experience that together meet the qualification requirements of this position.
CT-12 Level: To qualify for the CT‑12 level, you must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS/CT‑11 level.
Specialized experience is defined as experience demonstrating professional knowledge oflibrary science and involves experience:
Providing legal reference services;
And two or more of the following law-library functions:
Assisting with collection development, developing or updating law‑library procedures, maintaining legal research guides; OR
Assisting users in navigating legal research tools and delivering training sessions to help users improve their research skills; OR
Maintaining and updating the library website and the integrated library system (ILS); OR
Supporting acquisitions activities by monitoring orders for legal materials, preparing procurement documentation, tracking budget information, and coordinating with vendors regarding requests.
Selective Placement Factor: Applicants must demonstrate the ability to perform professional‑level legal reference using major legal research databases such as Westlaw, Lexis, or Bloomberg Law. Experience must include locating, interpreting, or summarizing statutes, case law, regulations, administrative decisions, or other legal authorities. Failure to provide evidence of this experience in your resume will result in an ineligible rating.
Education
Please refer to the OPM Librarian Series for the specific Education/Experience requirements for this position.
To be creditable, education must have been obtained in an accredited college or university. You must report only attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions that are recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. For a list of schools that meet this criterion, see www.ed.gov.
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR FOREIGN EDUCATION: If you are using education completed in foreign colleges or universities to meet the qualification requirements, you must show that the education credentials have been evaluated by a private organization that specializes in interpretation of foreign education programs and such education has been deemed equivalent to that gained in an accredited U.S. education program; or full credit has been given for the courses at a U.S. accredited college or university. For further information, visit: http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ous/international/usnei/us/edlite-visitus-forrecog.html
Additional information
This is a Bargaining Unit Position located in the National Treasury Employee Union (NTEU) Chapter 337.
Relocation: Relocation expenses will not be paid.
Probationary Period:
As a condition of employment for accepting this position, you may be required to serve a 1-year probationary period during which we will evaluate your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. In determining if your employment advances the public interest, we may consider:
Your performance and conduct;
The needs and interests of the agency;
Whether your continued employment would advance organizational goals of the agency or the Government; and
Whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service. Upon completion of your probationary/trial period your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest.
More than the number of positions listed may be filled through this vacancy announcement.
The overall salary range is provided for informational purposes as it represents the full range that is applicable to current employees in this occupation/grade. A new hire's direct and overall experience are critical factors in determining a salary offer, therefore, it is important that your resume fully reflects all of your work experience. Note that the upper end of each range is typically applicable only to candidates with significant years of work experience and qualifications Please review the CFTC Compensation Program website for additional information.
The law prohibits public officials from appointing, promoting, or recommending their relatives. The law prohibits requesting, making, transmitting, accepting, or considering political recommendations for employment or other personnel actions for non-political positions. This includes recommendations from Members of Congress, Congressional employees, elected state or local officials, and political party officials and any recommendation based on party affiliation.
Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
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.
First, your application will be reviewed to determine whether you meet the minimum qualification requirements. Applicants who meet these requirements will then be assessed against the core competencies for this role using the method described below.
As part of the assessment, you must submit an Accomplishment Record. This includes written narratives describing your past achievements as they relate to the specific core competencies for this position. The rating panel will review both your accomplishment record and your resume, and will place applicants into one of the following categories: Highly Qualified, Well Qualified, or Qualified.
Highly Qualified — Meets the minimum qualification requirements and has extensive skills and experience in most of the job-related competencies above.
Well Qualified — Meets the minimum qualification requirements and has a moderate amount of skills and experience in most of the job-related competencies above.
Qualified — Meets the minimum qualification requirements, but may have a limited amount of experience in several of the job-related competencies.
Each competency narrative must:
Describe one specific and relevant example from your training or experience
Be no more than 300 words
Be fully supported by information contained in your resume
The assessments for this position are designed to evaluate your proficiency in the following competencies:
Legal Reference - Conducts advanced legal reference using statutes, regulations, case law, administrative decisions, and authoritative databases to provide accurate, timely information that supports legal and policy work.
Information Management - Organizes, maintains, and provides access to legal and regulatory information.
Technological Proficiency - Uses library systems, digital tools, legal research platforms, and authentication technologies to improve access, resolve technical issues, and support efficient legal research services.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student; social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
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.
Resume showing all relevant and related experience (two pages max). If selected, your resume will be used to determine your initial pay setting decision;
Cover letter (optional);
Most recent performance appraisal (optional);
SF-50 showing you meet time in grade requirements, if applicable;
Transcripts (unofficial final copy with date degree was awarded; unofficial copy is accepted for application package, but an official copy is required prior to firm offer letter being extended;
Schedule A, Persons with Disabilities: Schedule A letter from a physician, local, state or federal rehabilitation office citing eligibility under 5 CFR 213.3102 (u).
If you wish to be considered under a Veteran’s authority (VEOA, 30%+ disabled, etc.), submit Veteran documentation such as your DD-214 (member 4 copy preferred or any copy showing dates and character of service), along with a VA letter, SF-15, or other applicable forms. Active‑duty members must provide an official statement of service from their command.
Other Special Hiring Authorities: If you are claiming eligibility under a Special Hiring Authority, you must submit supporting documents to receive consideration.
Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program (ICTAP): The ICTAP provides eligible displaced federal competitive service employees with selection priority over other candidates for competitive service vacancies. If your agency has notified you in writing that you are a displaced employee eligible for ICTAP consideration, you may receive selection priority if: 1) this vacancy is within your ICTAP eligibility, 2) you apply under the instructions in this announcement, and 3) you are found well-qualified for this vacancy. To be well qualified, you must score 85 or better on established ranking criteria. You must provide proof of eligibility with your application to receive selection priority. Additional information about ICTAP eligibility is at: http://www.opm.gov/ctap/index.asp.ICTAP
Career Transition Assistance Program (CTAP). Provides eligible surplus and displaced competitive service employees in the CFTC with selection priority over other candidates for competitive service vacancies. If CFTC has notified you in writing that you are a surplus or displaced employee eligible for CTAP consideration, you may receive selection priority if: 1) this vacancy is within your CTAP eligibility, 2) you apply under the instructions in this announcement, and 3) you are found well-qualified for this vacancy. To be well qualified, you must rate equivalent to the Well Qualified or better category using established rating criteria. You must provide a copy of your written notification of CTAP eligibility with your application. Additional information about CTAP eligibility is at: http://www.opm.gov/ctap/index.asp.
Candidates for CTAP/ICTAP MUST submit: 1. A copy of their agency reduction-in-force notice; 2. A copy of your most recent Performance Rating; 3. A copy of your most recent SF-50 noting current or last position held, the grade level, and the duty location; and 4. A copy of your notice of proposed removal for declining a directed reassignment or transfer of function outside the local commuting area or documentation showing you were separated as a result of RIF or declining a directed reassignment or transfer of function outside the local commuting area.
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.
RESUME REQUIREMENT:Your resume may NOT exceed two pages, and the font size should not be smaller than 10 pts. Please ensure your resume clearly demonstrates how you meet the qualifications for the position within the two-page limit.
YOU MUST APPLY ONLINE: Your complete application, including required documents, must be received by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time (EST) on the closing date of this announcement. You must complete and submit an application by accessing the USAJOBS website at USAJOBS.GOV. To begin, click the Apply Online button within the vacancy announcement and follow the prompts to create an account using LOGIN.GOV, if you have not done so already. LOGIN.GOV will walk you through each step of the account set-up and will automatically link your USAJOBS profile to LOGIN.GOV. Once you have established an account using LOGIN.GOV, you will then go back to USAJOBS.GOV using your LOGIN.GOV username and password to answer the questions and submit all required documents. If you already have established an LOGIN.GOV account or want to return to your saved application, go to USAJOBS.GOV using your LOGIN.GOV username and password to apply or view your profile. If you have problems completing your on-line application, including problems submitting your supporting documents, please contact the Help Desk by e-mail at mgshelp@monster.com or phone at 1-866.656.6831. The help desk is available Monday-Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. EST.
To verify the status of your application, log into your USAJOBS account (https://my.usajobs.gov/Account/Login), all of your applications will appear on the Welcome screen. The Application Status will appear along with the date your application was last updated. For information on what each Application Status means, visit: https://www.usajobs.gov/Help/how-to/application/status/.
Please notify us if your contact information changes after the closing date of the announcement. Also, note that if you provide an email address that is inaccurate or if your mailbox is full or blocked (e.g., spam-blocker), you may not receive important communication that could affect your consideration for this position.
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
Resume showing all relevant and related experience (two pages max). If selected, your resume will be used to determine your initial pay setting decision;
Cover letter (optional);
Most recent performance appraisal (optional);
SF-50 showing you meet time in grade requirements, if applicable;
Transcripts (unofficial final copy with date degree was awarded; unofficial copy is accepted for application package, but an official copy is required prior to firm offer letter being extended;
Schedule A, Persons with Disabilities: Schedule A letter from a physician, local, state or federal rehabilitation office citing eligibility under 5 CFR 213.3102 (u).
If you wish to be considered under a Veteran’s authority (VEOA, 30%+ disabled, etc.), submit Veteran documentation such as your DD-214 (member 4 copy preferred or any copy showing dates and character of service), along with a VA letter, SF-15, or other applicable forms. Active‑duty members must provide an official statement of service from their command.
Other Special Hiring Authorities: If you are claiming eligibility under a Special Hiring Authority, you must submit supporting documents to receive consideration.
Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program (ICTAP): The ICTAP provides eligible displaced federal competitive service employees with selection priority over other candidates for competitive service vacancies. If your agency has notified you in writing that you are a displaced employee eligible for ICTAP consideration, you may receive selection priority if: 1) this vacancy is within your ICTAP eligibility, 2) you apply under the instructions in this announcement, and 3) you are found well-qualified for this vacancy. To be well qualified, you must score 85 or better on established ranking criteria. You must provide proof of eligibility with your application to receive selection priority. Additional information about ICTAP eligibility is at: http://www.opm.gov/ctap/index.asp.ICTAP
Career Transition Assistance Program (CTAP). Provides eligible surplus and displaced competitive service employees in the CFTC with selection priority over other candidates for competitive service vacancies. If CFTC has notified you in writing that you are a surplus or displaced employee eligible for CTAP consideration, you may receive selection priority if: 1) this vacancy is within your CTAP eligibility, 2) you apply under the instructions in this announcement, and 3) you are found well-qualified for this vacancy. To be well qualified, you must rate equivalent to the Well Qualified or better category using established rating criteria. You must provide a copy of your written notification of CTAP eligibility with your application. Additional information about CTAP eligibility is at: http://www.opm.gov/ctap/index.asp.
Candidates for CTAP/ICTAP MUST submit: 1. A copy of their agency reduction-in-force notice; 2. A copy of your most recent Performance Rating; 3. A copy of your most recent SF-50 noting current or last position held, the grade level, and the duty location; and 4. A copy of your notice of proposed removal for declining a directed reassignment or transfer of function outside the local commuting area or documentation showing you were separated as a result of RIF or declining a directed reassignment or transfer of function outside the local commuting area.
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.
RESUME REQUIREMENT:Your resume may NOT exceed two pages, and the font size should not be smaller than 10 pts. Please ensure your resume clearly demonstrates how you meet the qualifications for the position within the two-page limit.
YOU MUST APPLY ONLINE: Your complete application, including required documents, must be received by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time (EST) on the closing date of this announcement. You must complete and submit an application by accessing the USAJOBS website at USAJOBS.GOV. To begin, click the Apply Online button within the vacancy announcement and follow the prompts to create an account using LOGIN.GOV, if you have not done so already. LOGIN.GOV will walk you through each step of the account set-up and will automatically link your USAJOBS profile to LOGIN.GOV. Once you have established an account using LOGIN.GOV, you will then go back to USAJOBS.GOV using your LOGIN.GOV username and password to answer the questions and submit all required documents. If you already have established an LOGIN.GOV account or want to return to your saved application, go to USAJOBS.GOV using your LOGIN.GOV username and password to apply or view your profile. If you have problems completing your on-line application, including problems submitting your supporting documents, please contact the Help Desk by e-mail at mgshelp@monster.com or phone at 1-866.656.6831. The help desk is available Monday-Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. EST.
To verify the status of your application, log into your USAJOBS account (https://my.usajobs.gov/Account/Login), all of your applications will appear on the Welcome screen. The Application Status will appear along with the date your application was last updated. For information on what each Application Status means, visit: https://www.usajobs.gov/Help/how-to/application/status/.
Please notify us if your contact information changes after the closing date of the announcement. Also, note that if you provide an email address that is inaccurate or if your mailbox is full or blocked (e.g., spam-blocker), you may not receive important communication that could affect your consideration for this position.
Fair and transparent
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
