Become an Assistant United States Attorney in the Middle District of Georgia
Are you an experienced attorney with a passion for public service and a background in criminal prosecution? The Department of Justice (DOJ) is seeking driven, capable professionals to serve as Assistant United States Attorneys (AUSAs) within the Middle District of Georgia. This role offers an unparalleled opportunity to work at the highest levels of the legal system, handling complex cases that serve the public interest.
Job Responsibilities
As an AUSA, you will be on the front lines of the criminal justice system. Your daily responsibilities will include:
- Managing a diverse criminal caseload involving white-collar crime, drug trafficking, and violent offenses.
- Drafting persuasive legal motions and briefs.
- Representing the government in hearings and trials.
- Collaborating with law enforcement agencies and investigative teams.
- Conducting complex legal research to build robust cases.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet several mandatory criteria:
- Education: A J.D. degree is required.
- Licensure: You must be an active member of the bar in any U.S. jurisdiction.
- Security: You must be eligible for a high-level security clearance, which involves a background investigation, credit checks, and drug testing.
- Citizenship: Only U.S. citizens are eligible for this appointment.
Comparison Table: Why Choose a Career as an AUSA?
| Feature | Private Practice | AUSA Position |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Goal | Profit/Client Success | Public Justice |
| Courtroom Exposure | Varies | Extensive |
| Case Variety | Client Dependent | Wide-reaching Federal Scope |
| Benefits | Firm Specific | Comprehensive Federal Package |
Salary and Benefits
Compensation for AUSAs is administratively determined based on professional legal experience. Salaries range from $76,748 to $190,431 annually, with locality pay adjustments based on your specific office location. In addition to a competitive salary, employees enjoy the standard federal benefits package, including health insurance, life insurance, and a robust retirement plan (FERS).
Application Tips
- Respect the Limits: Your resume must be two pages or less. Submissions exceeding this limit are automatically disqualified.
- Detail Your Experience: Clearly state hours worked for part-time roles and specific duties performed.
- Prepare Your Writing Sample: Select a piece that demonstrates your ability to write clearly and persuasively, keeping it under 25 pages.
- Veterans' Preference: If applicable, ensure you include all required documentation like the SF-15 to ensure your eligibility is considered.
Serving as an Assistant United States Attorney is more than a job—it is a calling. If you possess the legal acumen, integrity, and dedication required to uphold the rule of law, we encourage you to apply to the Middle District of Georgia today.
Why This Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal) Job Matters
Take your legal career to the front lines of justice with the Middle District of Georgia, where your prosecution work directly impacts the safety and integrity of our communities.
Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal) Job Overview
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Georgia is currently accepting applications for Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) positions within the Criminal Division. Based in either Columbus or Macon, these roles are ideal for experienced legal professionals looking to handle complex federal cases including white-collar crime, drug trafficking, and violent offenses. This is a critical opportunity to join a mission-driven organization dedicated to protecting civil rights and upholding the rule of law.
Requirements for Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal)
- Possession of a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree or equivalent.
- Active member in good standing of the bar in any U.S. jurisdiction.
- United States citizenship.
- Successful completion of a pre-employment adjudication, including fingerprinting, credit/tax checks, and drug testing.
- Must maintain residency within the district or within 25 miles of the assigned location.
- Registration with the Selective Service System for male applicants born after December 31, 1959.
Preferred Qualifications for Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal)
- Demonstrated expertise in complex criminal litigation.
- Superior legal research and persuasive writing skills.
- Proven capability to function effectively in high-pressure environments.
- Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate with diverse teams, agencies, and support staff.
- Established track record of negotiation excellence.
- Strong leadership qualities and a commitment to professional growth.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal salary structures.
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance plans.
- ✓Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) participation.
- ✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- ✓Life insurance coverage.
- ✓Telework opportunities where applicable.
💡 How to Apply Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal) Job
- Prepare a resume not exceeding two pages, a legal writing sample of up to 25 pages, a list of references, and a one-page cover letter.
- Create or log into your account on the federal application portal.
- Submit the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload all required documentation, including bar membership verification and academic transcripts.
- Ensure all materials are submitted before the application deadline.
- Monitor your application status via your user dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit; exceeding this will disqualify your application.
- Clearly document your work experience, including hours worked per week and specific dates of employment.
- If claiming Veterans' Preference, ensure you attach the required SF-15 and supporting discharge documentation.
- Be prepared for a 20-minute occupational questionnaire; allocate time to complete it carefully.
- Double-check your residency status against the district requirements before applying.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical caseload for this position?
The Criminal Division handles a variety of federal matters, including white-collar crimes, immigration-related offenses, large-scale drug trafficking, and violent crimes such as child exploitation.
Is relocation assistance available?
No, relocation expenses are not authorized for these positions.
How often is the application pool reviewed?
The office reviews applications on a rolling basis, beginning June 17, 2026, and every two weeks thereafter until all positions are filled.
How long does the hiring process take?
*A: The DOJ aims to issue final job offers within 120 days after the announcement closing date.*
Can I work remotely?
*A: This position is not remote, though it is eligible for telework opportunities as per agency policy.*
Will I receive relocation assistance?
*A: No, relocation expenses are not authorized.*
Job from Executive Office For U.S. Attorneys And The Office Of The U.S. Attorneys
The United States Attorney’s Office (USAO) for the Middle District of Georgia represents the interests of the United States in federal court. Spanning 70 counties and covering a vast geographic area, the district includes major military installations such as Robins Air Force Base and Fort Benning. Working here means joining a workforce dedicated to protecting civil rights, enforcing federal law, and ensuring the safety of over two million residents.
