The Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) is seeking a qualified attorney for a prisons attorney job, to join its Office of General Counsel, Employment Law Branch (ELB). This is a permanent federal attorney position offering hands-on litigation experience in labor and employment law across multiple forums.
The Employment Law Branch serves as the legal backbone for labor and employment matters within the BOP. ELB attorneys represent the agency before key federal bodies, including the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB), and the Office of Special Counsel (OSC).
Attorneys also collaborate with Assistant U.S. Attorneys and DOJ Civil Division lawyers in federal litigation, including proceedings before the United States Court of Federal Claims and the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit.
Beyond litigation, ELB lawyers provide advisory support on disciplinary actions, employment policies, and workplace compliance. The branch operates from Washington, D.C., with regional offices nationwide.
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Job Description
This role offers a blend of litigation and advisory responsibilities, including:
- Representing the BOP in administrative hearings before the MSPB, EEOC, and similar forums
- Assisting in the preparation and strategy of federal district court trials
- Advising management on labor and employment law issues
- Reviewing disciplinary and employment-related actions for legal sufficiency
This is a strong opportunity for attorneys seeking courtroom exposure and federal employment law experience.
Duty Locations
Applicants may indicate interest in one or more of the following locations:
- Washington, DC
- Grand Prairie, Texas
- Annapolis Junction, Maryland
- Phoenix, Arizona
Qualifications
Required:
- Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree
- Active bar membership in any U.S. jurisdiction
Preferred:
- Experience in labor and employment law
- Background in litigation or employment discrimination cases
Salary & Benefits
- Pay scale: GS-12 to GS-15 (depending on experience and location)
- Salary includes locality adjustments
- Federal employment benefits apply
Application Process for the Prisons Attorney Job
To apply, submit the following documents by May 8, 2026:
- Cover letter (include preferred duty location)
- Resume (maximum of 2 pages)
- List of references
- Writing sample
Send applications to: BOP-OGC-EmploymentLawApplications@bop.gov
Subject line: “ELB Attorney – May 2026”
Applicants must also disclose any potential conflicts of interest, including current representations or family affiliations involving the Office.
Why This Role?
This position provides a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of federal employment law and litigation. Attorneys gain exposure to high-level administrative proceedings and federal court practice while advising on impactful workplace policies within a major federal agency.
Application Deadline: May 8, 2026