Staff Counsel
Hybrid Schedule | Washington, D.C.
Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR)

$10K Signing Bonus + Amazing Litigation Work. Apply now! 

The Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR) is the nation’s leading public interest organization dedicated exclusively to immigration enforcement and the rule of law. For over four decades, FAIR has led the charge in advocating for secure borders, sensible immigration policies, and protecting the interests of American workers, families, and communities.

We are seeking a Staff Counsel to join our growing litigation program at a pivotal moment in the national immigration debate. This role offers a unique opportunity to shape impactful litigation strategy and support FAIR’s mission in both federal and state courts, as well as before government agencies.

The Staff Counsel will manage their own caseload and be responsible for all phases of litigation and pre-litigation advocacy. The role involves:

• Developing and executing litigation strategy, including case assessments and the drafting and editing of pleadings, motions, and briefs (including amicus filings) at both trial and appellate levels
• Preparing witnesses for interviews, depositions, and trial testimony
• Attending hearings, mediations, court conferences, and trials as necessary
• Collaborating with other attorneys, researchers, and policy staff to support broader organizational goals

Qualifications: Required

• J.D. degree and admission to the District of Columbia Bar (or eligibility to waive in)
• While litigation experience is preferred, exemplary recent law school graduates looking for a rewarding first job where they make a difference, learn litigation skills immediately and benefit from mentorship are encouraged to apply
• Strong legal research, writing, and oral advocacy skills
• Self-motivated, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to prioritize multiple tasks in a deadline-driven environment
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a resourceful, “can-do” approach

Qualifications: Preferred

• Experience writing appellate briefs
• Background in immigration law, constitutional law, or administrative law
• Deep understanding of FAIR’s mission and commitment to advancing it through the legal system

Position Details

• Status: Full-time, exempt
• Location: Washington, D.C. (hybrid schedule available)
• Compensation: Salary range $90,000 – $110,000, commensurate with experience
• Benefits: Competitive and comprehensive benefits package

How to Apply

To be considered, please send the following materials to jblue@fairus.org:

• Cover letter indicating your familiarity with FAIR’s mission, resume and one writing sample – preferably legal
• For more information about our work and mission, visit www.fairus.org

The Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR) provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetics.

About Federation for American Immigration Reform

Immigration policies can determine what kind of America future generations will inherit – livable or overcrowded, successful or overburdened. While we see our obligations to help the less fortunate around the world, we also know that irresponsible border policies can undermine our own nation’s ability to be a successful change agent for the human race. FAIR engages in community outreach to inform affected communities of how national immigration policies affect their own situation, and invites them to engage in a meaningful dialogue on how to shape immigration policies for the 21st Century and beyond. As a non-partisan, public interest organization with a support base comprising nearly 50 private foundations and over 3 million diverse members and supporters, FAIR is free of party loyalties and special interest connections. FAIR evaluates policies, seeking out solutions that help reduce the negative impact of uncontrolled immigration on the nation’s security, economy, workforce, education, healthcare, and environment.

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