General Counsel Headquarters Mission and Values Statements Guidance Documents General Counsel Awards Vacancies

THE OFFICE OF GENERAL COUNSEL NATIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATION The Office of General Counsel provides legal advice and counsel for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) of the U.S. Department of Commerce. The General Counsel is appointed by the Secretary of Commerce, with the approval of the President. The Office of the General Counsel provides legal service and guidance for all matters that may arise in the conduct of NOAA's missions. The Organization Chart provides additional information as to the Office’s structure. MISSION AND VALUE STATEMENTS MISSION STATEMENT: The NOAA Office of the General Counsel is a team of professionals advancing the mission and objectives of NOAA by delivering legal services of the highest quality. We are committed to providing sound judgment, thoughtful analysis, and constructive advice through effective communication. In an environment fostering innovation and professional development, we apply the rule of law with integrity, respect for people, and commitment to excellence and the public trust. VALUES: Integrity, Innovation, Teamwork, Professional Excellence, Effective Communication, Public Service GUIDANCE DOCUMENTS On December 21, 2012, the NOAA Office of General Counsel issued NOAA-wide guidance on compiling Administrative Records. GENERAL COUNSEL AWARDS Each year, the Department of Commerce Office of General Counsel and the NOAA Office of the General Counsel recognizes attorneys, paralegals, administrative professionals, line and staff office personnel, and other Federal Agency employees for their exceptional performance and contributions. Information about past award winners can be found at our documents library. VACANCIES The Office of General Counsel periodically has legal job openings on a wide variety of issues involving preservation of coastal areas, marine sanctuaries and marine resources. Job announcements are made available through the USAJobs web site or NOAA’s new NOAA Careers employment information web site.