During this current situation with COVID-19, the ABA will
continue to accept and process applications for job opportunities.  We
will conduct our recruitment process via alternative means (virtual interviews)
for the time being.

The ABA recruits employees seeking opportunities for challenging and substantive work defending liberty and pursuing justice in the U.S. and around the world.  The ABA offers competitive employment benefits which include medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, flexible spending accounts, a 401(k), commuter benefits, and more.

The American Bar Association’s Governmental Affairs Office (GAO) seeks a bright, energetic attorney to advocate on behalf of the ABA before Congress and other governmental entities on issues regarding improving the immigration system. ABA advocacy efforts in this area center on supporting  access to counsel and preserving due process safeguards; opposing mandatory detention and  supporting alternatives to detention; improving the immigration court and adjudication system; and restoring access to humanitarian protections. Additional advocacy issues will be added to the portfolio based on experience.

 

Principal Duties/Job Responsibilities:

-Devises and carries out lobbying campaigns in support of ABA legislative priorities and other policy positions to achieve legislation or governmental action consistent with ABA policies.

-Works directly with Congress, the Executive Branch, the Judiciary, and representatives of private organizations to advance ABA policy objectives.

-Drafts and submits written statements, letters, and other communications to Congress and other governmental bodies and arranges for Association leaders to testify at hearings or meet personally with governmental leaders.

-Conducts legal and legislative research. Analyzes proposed legislation and regulations for consistency with ABA policy or to flag issues of potential concern to the ABA.

-Provides assistance to ABA volunteers and entities by coordinating advocacy efforts, advising them of legislative actions that require ABA attention. Provides regular updates of same.

-Provides direct staff support to presidentially-appointed committees and task forces.

-Other duties as assigned.

 

Education:

-Doctoral Degree (JD, PhD)

 

Skills and Experience:

-JD and at least 5 years of legal experience, including at least 3 years working with Congress or Executive Branch agencies, in or out of government, on legislative policy.

-Also requires the following: excellent oral and written communication skills; professional demeanor; strong analytical skills; ability to work independently and on multiple projects simultaneously; demonstrated ability to exercise independent judgment; and a team orientation.

-Familiarity with the Association and substantive knowledge of issues of concern to the legal profession and the Association are desirable.

 

Applicants are encouraged to describe applicable experience in a cover letter.

The American Bar Association is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action Employer of all protected classes including veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Women, minorities, veterans, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADAAA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with the American Bar Association please call 312-988-5188.

Residency requirements may apply.

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