Summary
The Torts Branch defends the United States and its employees in litigation seeking monetary judgment for damages resulting from alleged negligent or wrongful acts. The Torts Branch is the principal guardian of the public fisc in tort suits that seek billions of dollars in monetary damages each year. The Vaccine Act is a critical component of our nation's vaccination system and ensures that the very rare cases where people are harmed by covered vaccines, appropriate compensation is available.
Duties
As a Trial Attorney, the incumbent: Prepares for and conducts hearings, settlement negotiations or trials of cases that may involve difficult and complex factual situations. Prepares memoranda such as pleadings, motions, briefs, and other documents on the basis of factual and legal research. Participates in pretrial and prehearing conferences. Conducts trials or presents oral arguments in federal courts, state courts and administrative proceedings, as appropriate. Examines formal filings for legal sufficiency. Reviews submissions of party representatives to ensure procedural requirements are met. Responds to inquiries from the White House, Congress, federal departments and agencies, state and local authorities, and private individuals on matters within scope of assigned statutory responsibilities. Maintains personal contacts and works closely with officials and employees of the Division, officials and employees of the Department and other government agencies and the public on litigation and policy-related matters. This is not a remote location position. You will be required to work in person five days a week.
Education
All academic degrees and coursework must be completed at a college or university that has obtained accreditation or pre-accreditation status from an accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. For a list of schools that meet this criteria, see www.ed.gov. OR Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the above education requirements if you can show that the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited educational institution in the United States. It is your responsibility to timely provide such evidence by submitting proof of creditability of education as evaluated by a credentialing agency with your application materials. More information may be found at https://www.ed.gov/about/initiatives/international-affairs/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications All documentation must be in English or include an English translation.
How you will be evaluated
The initial cut-off date for referral of eligible applicants will be on or about June 23, 2026. Additional referral lists will be issued every two weeks thereafter during the open period of this announcement. This announcement may close at any time once all selections have been made. Applicants are encouraged to apply early to ensure full consideration. Applications will be evaluated by a reviewing panel. Please Note: The Selecting Official may select additional candidates if more positions become available within 120 days after the closing date of the vacancy.