Pursuing a Career as an Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA)

The United States Attorney’s Office (USAO) for the Central District of California represents one of the most high-profile and active legal jurisdictions in the country. Serving nearly 20 million people across seven counties, the office is a cornerstone of the federal justice system. We are seeking highly qualified, motivated legal professionals to fill Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) positions within our Criminal and National Security Divisions.

Job Responsibilities

As an AUSA, your responsibilities will grow alongside your experience. Core duties include:

Criminal Prosecution: Handling complex federal criminal cases through all stages of litigation.
Investigations: Providing counsel to federal law enforcement agents regarding ongoing investigations.
Grand Jury Proceedings: Presenting evidence and cases to grand juries.
Trial Practice: Representing the United States in high-stakes litigation before the U.S. District Court.
Appellate Work: Managing criminal appeals before the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals.
National Security: Combating cyber-threats and domestic/international security issues.

Requirements

Candidates must be prepared to meet rigorous standards:

Requirement	Description
Education	Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited institution.
Bar Status	Active membership in any U.S. jurisdiction; California bar required upon hire.
Citizenship	Must be a U.S. citizen.
Background	Must pass drug testing, credit, and tax checks.

Salary Overview

Compensation is determined administratively based on professional experience as a licensed attorney or law clerk:

AD-21: 0-2 years experience ($114,525)
AD-23: 3-4 years experience
AD-25: 5 years experience
AD-26: 6 years experience
AD-27: 7 years experience
AD-28: 8 years experience
AD-29: 9+ years experience (up to $197,100)

Benefits

Working for the federal government offers a robust benefits package, including health insurance, life insurance, retirement planning via the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS), and generous leave policies.

Application Tips

Format Matters: Keep your resume strictly to two pages or risk immediate disqualification.
Documentation: Ensure every job listed includes specific dates (month/day/year) and hours worked per week.
Clarity: Clearly state any veterans' preference documentation early in your cover letter.

Serving as an AUSA in the Central District of California is a significant career move for any attorney. If you possess a sharp legal mind, unwavering ethics, and a dedication to public service, we encourage you to submit your application to join our ranks.

Why This Assistant United States Attorney Job Matters

Step into a pivotal role as an Assistant United States Attorney in the Central District of California, where your legal expertise directly impacts federal law enforcement and national security.

Assistant United States Attorney Job Overview

The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Central District of California is seeking dedicated attorneys to join its prestigious Criminal and National Security Divisions. As an AUSA, you will manage complex litigation, prosecute federal cases, and represent the interests of the United States in a district serving over 20 million residents. This is an open continuous announcement for attorneys committed to the rule of law, public service, and protecting the safety and rights of citizens.

Requirements for Assistant United States Attorney

Possess a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree.
Must be an active member of the bar in any U.S. jurisdiction.
If not already admitted to the California Bar, must be willing and able to take and pass the California bar exam.
Must be a United States citizen.
Must satisfy all pre-employment background checks, including drug testing, fingerprinting, and credit/tax assessments.
Must reside within the district or within 25 miles of the appointment location.

Preferred Qualifications for Assistant United States Attorney

Demonstrated experience in federal or state litigation.
Superior academic credentials and exceptional legal writing abilities.
Proven interest in public service and commitment to the Department of Justice mission.
Courtroom presence and the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders.
Existing ties to the Central District of California.
Relevant experience as a judicial clerk or in private practice for several years.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options
✓Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) participation
✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays
✓Life insurance coverage
✓Potential for recruitment incentives
✓Professional development and training opportunities

💡 How to Apply Assistant United States Attorney Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Assistant United States Attorney Job

Create or log into your account at USAJOBS.
Complete the mandatory occupational questionnaire.
Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages, ensuring it contains all required employment details.
Submit your cover letter, writing sample, law school transcripts, and contact information for two references.
Upload any applicable documentation if claiming veterans' preference.
Submit your package online before the final closing date.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit; submissions exceeding this will be disqualified.
Double-check that your resume includes specific dates, hours worked per week, and a clear list of duties for every role.
Use the application status tracker in your dashboard to monitor for receipt of materials and correspondence.
If you have questions about conflict of interest, address them early by consulting the provided contact point.
Submit your application early to avoid last-minute technical delays.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be licensed in California to apply?

You must be an active member of a bar in any U.S. jurisdiction to apply. If hired, you are required to attain and maintain active membership in the California State Bar.

How is my salary determined?

Pay is administratively determined based on your total years of professional attorney experience, ranging from 0 years to 9+ years.

What is the background investigation process?

Initial appointment is conditional on fingerprinting, credit checks, tax verification, and drug screening. Ongoing employment depends on a full, favorable security background investigation.

Job from Executive Office For U.S. Attorneys And The Office Of The U.S. Attorneys

The Department of Justice (DOJ) serves as the primary enforcer of federal law in the United States. Our mission is to uphold the rule of law, protect civil rights, and ensure the safety of our nation. By joining the Central District of California, you will be part of a diverse, talented workforce committed to protecting the life, liberty, and property of the American public.