Become an Assistant United States Attorney: A Career in the Middle District of Pennsylvania

The Department of Justice (DOJ) plays a pivotal role in maintaining the safety and civil rights of the American people. For legal professionals looking to transition into federal service, the position of Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) represents one of the most prestigious and impactful career paths available. The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania is currently seeking a motivated, skilled attorney to join its Civil Division. This is an exceptional opportunity to serve the public interest while engaging in high-stakes, intellectually rigorous litigation.

Job Responsibilities

As an AUSA in the Civil Division, your primary focus will be defensive litigation. Your day-to-day responsibilities will evolve as you grow in the role, but core tasks will include:

• Drafting high-quality, persuasive pleadings and motions.
• Conducting in-depth legal research to support complex arguments.
• Interviewing witnesses and preparing evidence for court.
• Taking and defending depositions.
• Negotiating settlements to resolve civil disputes.
• Representing the United States in cases involving inmate litigation, medical malpractice, and employment discrimination.

Requirements

To be considered for this position, candidates must meet the following criteria:

• Education: A Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree or equivalent is required by the date of entry.
• Bar Membership: Applicants must be an active member of the bar in any U.S. jurisdiction.
• Citizenship: You must be a United States citizen.
• Suitability: You must be able to successfully pass a comprehensive background investigation, including credit, tax, and fingerprint checks, as well as a pre-employment drug test.

Salary Overview

The Department of Justice offers a competitive salary structure based on professional experience. The salary for this position ranges from $76,748 to $197,100 per year, which includes locality pay based on the specific region. As an AUSA, you are entering a professional career path where remuneration is administratively determined based on your unique experience and qualifications.

Benefits of Federal Employment

Federal service comes with a robust benefits package designed to support both your professional and personal life. Key benefits include:

Benefit	Description
Health Insurance	Access to comprehensive federal employee health benefit plans.
Retirement	Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
Time Off	Generous accrual of paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
Insurance	Options for life and long-term care insurance.
Training	Access to federal-level legal training through the National Advocacy Center.

Application Tips

Securing a position as an AUSA is highly competitive. To maximize your chances:

1. Strict Compliance: Pay close attention to the two-page limit for your resume. Applications exceeding this length are automatically disqualified.
2. Detail is Key: When listing your employment history, provide specific duties and clear timelines (month/day/year) to ensure you receive full credit for your experience.
3. Use Available Resources: Always submit the supplemental questionnaire found on the District’s website along with your standard application materials.
4. Proofread: Your writing ability is a primary qualification. Ensure all documents are polished, professional, and free of errors.

Serving as an Assistant United States Attorney is more than just a job; it is a commitment to public service and the pursuit of justice. If you possess a passion for the law, excellent research and advocacy skills, and the drive to work in a demanding, intellectually stimulating environment, we encourage you to apply. Start your journey with the Department of Justice and help make a difference in your community.