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Role Description

The United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit is seeking a highly qualified Senior Staff Attorney to serve as the chief executive of the Staff Attorneys' Office.

The Senior Staff Attorney is the chief operating officer for the Staff Attorneys' Office. The Senior Staff Attorney is a statutory position appointed by the Court and reports to the Chief Circuit Judge. The Senior Staff Attorney directs attorneys and administrative staff, with full responsibility for the legal and administrative operations of the office, including:

• Ensure the high quality and timely submission of the office's work product.
• Establish and maintain sound working relationships with other court units.
• Advise the Court on legal and procedural matters.
• Serve on the Court's executive leadership team, staff Court committees, and advise the Administrative Office together with other Circuits' Senior Staff Attorneys.

Qualifications

• A Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school.
• Membership in good standing in the bar of a state, territorial or federal court of general jurisdiction.
• Expertise in federal appellate, civil, and criminal procedure, as well as significant understanding of constitutional law.
• At least ten years of experience in the practice of law, legal research, or legal administration, and at least five years of substantial management responsibility.
• Superior analytical, research, and writing skills; outstanding written and oral communication abilities; strong interpersonal skills; knowledge of automated systems; and a demonstrated ability to manage professional staff.

Requirements

• Related experience in a federal court, government agency, or equivalent environment.
• Specialized education in public or judicial administration.
• Training in court management.

Benefits

• Employer subsidized health and life insurance plans.
• Dental and vision insurance plans.
• Flexible spending accounts for health care, dependent care, and commuter expenses.
• Eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program and mass transit subsidies.
• On-site fitness center.
• Federal retirement entails a pension plan (FERS-FRAE) and employer-matching Thrift Savings Plan (similar to a 401K).
• Retirees may carry insurance plans into retirement while paying the same premiums as employees.
• Annual time off - 13 vacation days, 13 sick leave days, and 11 paid holidays. Vacation days increase to 20 days after three years and to 26 days after fifteen years.
• Hybrid telework schedule may be available.

How to Apply

Please submit a single PDF application packet, including (1) a cover letter addressing your qualifications and experience performing the representative duties and how you learned of the position, (2) a current resume, to the Director of Human Resources via the Apply to Position button on our online application system. Position is open until filled; preference given to applications received by March 26, 2026.