Launch Your Career as an Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal)
Are you a motivated legal professional looking to make a significant impact on the American justice system? The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of Illinois is currently accepting applications for an Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) within its Criminal Division, based in Urbana, Illinois. This is more than just a job; it is a commitment to upholding the rule of law, protecting civil rights, and ensuring the safety of our nation.
Job Responsibilities
As an AUSA in the Criminal Division, your day-to-day will be dynamic and challenging. You will be responsible for the investigation and prosecution of a wide variety of federal crimes, including but not limited to:
- Violent crimes
- Crimes against children
- Immigration and human trafficking offenses
- Drug enforcement
- National security threats
- Firearms trafficking
- White-collar and financial crimes
You will work in close cooperation with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to build cases that stand up to the highest levels of judicial scrutiny.
Requirements
To be considered for this prestigious position, candidates must meet specific criteria:
- Degree: A Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
- Bar Membership: Must be an active member in good standing of the bar of any U.S. jurisdiction.
- Communication: Superior oral and written communication skills are essential for courtroom advocacy and drafting legal motions.
- Clearance: Ability to pass a high-level background investigation, including financial and drug testing.
Salary and Benefits
Working for the federal government offers competitive pay and robust security. Compensation for this role is determined based on your professional legal experience.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $80,000 - $165,000 (including locality pay) |
| Schedule | Full-Time, Permanent |
| Security Level | Special-Sensitive / High Risk |
| Location | Urbana, Illinois |
In addition to salary, employees enjoy comprehensive federal benefits, including health insurance, generous annual/sick leave, and federal retirement options.
Application Tips for Success
- Respect the Constraints: The two-page resume limit is strict. Do not ignore it, as your application will be automatically rejected.
- Be Comprehensive: Clearly define your previous employment duties, start and end dates (including month/day/year), and average hours worked.
- Tailor Your Writing Sample: Select a piece that demonstrates your ability to analyze complex issues and argue points of law clearly.
Serving as an Assistant United States Attorney is a career milestone that commands respect and provides unparalleled professional development. If you possess the advocacy skills, legal acumen, and ethical integrity required, we encourage you to apply. Help us serve the citizens of the Central District of Illinois and maintain the rule of law.
Why This Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal) Job Matters
Advance your legal career with the Department of Justice by championing justice as an Assistant United States Attorney in the heart of Urbana, Illinois.
Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal) Job Overview
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of Illinois is seeking a dedicated legal professional to join its Criminal Division. As an Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA), you will play a pivotal role in investigating and prosecuting a diverse spectrum of federal criminal cases. From white-collar crime and national security matters to cases involving violent crime and human trafficking, this position offers a unique opportunity to uphold the rule of law and protect the community. This role is ideal for an attorney who thrives in a fast-paced environment and is committed to public service.
Requirements for Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal)
- Possession of a J.D. degree or equivalent.
- Active member in good standing of the bar in any U.S. jurisdiction.
- Proven superior oral and written communication skills.
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to function with minimal guidance.
- Successful completion of a rigorous background investigation, including credit, tax, and fingerprint checks.
- Ability to pass a mandatory pre-employment drug screening.
- Residency within the district or within 25 miles of the appointment location.
- Registration with the Selective Service System for male applicants born after 1959.
Preferred Qualifications for Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal)
- Exceptional legal research and writing capabilities.
- Strong advocacy skills with the ability to articulate complex case-related issues precisely.
- Proven success in professional team environments, including collaborating with client agencies and support staff.
- Sound ethical judgment and high-level analytical abilities.
- Prior academic or professional experience demonstrating excellence in the legal field.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance plans.
- ✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- ✓Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) eligibility.
- ✓Life insurance options.
- ✓Opportunities for professional growth within the Department of Justice.
💡 How to Apply Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal) Job
- Create or log into your account on the official USAJOBS portal.
- Prepare your documentation: a two-page maximum resume, cover letter addressed to Acting U.S. Attorney Gregory M. Gilmore, J.D. and undergraduate transcripts, legal writing sample (5-10 pages), and proof of bar membership.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire via the application portal.
- Submit your full application package before the deadline.
- Monitor your status through the application dashboard on the USAJOBS website.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit; exceeding this will result in immediate disqualification.
- Highlight your specific criminal law experience in your resume and cover letter to make your candidacy stand out.
- Double-check that your transcripts, bar membership proof, and writing sample are uploaded clearly and in the correct format.
- Submit early to allow for the mandatory system virus scan of your documents.
- Include specific dates (month, day, year) for all prior work history to ensure your experience is properly credited.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the salary range for an AUSA?
The salary is administratively determined based on your professional attorney experience, ranging from $80,000 to $165,000 per year, inclusive of locality pay.
Can I apply if I am not currently a resident of the district?
Generally, AUSAs must reside within the district or within 25 miles of the appointed office; please review 28 U.S.C. 545 for specific requirements.
Is a security clearance required?
Yes, this position is categorized as Special-Sensitive/High Risk. Employment is contingent upon the successful adjudication of a thorough background investigation, including drug testing.
Is relocation assistance provided?
No, relocation expenses are not authorized for this position.
How often is the applicant pool reviewed?
Applicant lists are generally reviewed every 30 days until the position is filled.
Is telework available?
This position is not designated as telework-eligible.
Job from Executive Office For U.S. Attorneys And The Office Of The U.S. Attorneys
The Department of Justice (DOJ) is the premier law enforcement agency in the United States. With a workforce exceeding 100,000 dedicated professionals, the DOJ operates to ensure the fair and impartial administration of justice. As part of the Office of the U.S. Attorneys, you will work within a district dedicated to protecting the life, liberty, and property of citizens through rigorous federal prosecution and civil enforcement.