Launch Your Legal Career as an Assistant United States Attorney

Are you a passionate litigator looking to serve the public interest? The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of California is actively recruiting Assistant United States Attorneys (AUSAs) to join its Criminal Division. This is a premier opportunity to represent the interests of the United States in federal court while tackling complex criminal matters that impact the safety and security of our nation.

Job Responsibilities

AUSAs in the Criminal Division handle a wide range of responsibilities that evolve with experience. Key duties include:

Conducting investigations into criminal violations of federal law.
Litigating cases in court, including motion practice, plea negotiations, and jury trials.
Collaborating with multi-agency task forces to dismantle criminal organizations.
Utilizing advanced investigatory tools, such as electronic surveillance and search warrants.
Handling appeals and complex white-collar, narcotics, and violent crime cases.

Requirements

To be eligible for this position, applicants must meet specific federal criteria:

Degree: A J.D. degree or equivalent is mandatory.
Bar Membership: Applicants must be active members in good standing of the Bar of any U.S. jurisdiction.
Citizenship: You must be a United States citizen.
Background: Candidates must pass a rigorous pre-employment security and suitability investigation, which includes drug testing, credit, and tax checks.

Salary and Compensation Comparison

Salaries for AUSAs are determined by professional experience and local cost-of-living adjustments. Below is a breakdown of the pay potential by region:

Office Location	Base Pay Range	Locality Adjustment
Sacramento	$85,075 - $197,100	29.76%
Fresno	$77,135 - $180,986	17.65%
Bakersfield	$89,474 - $197,100	36.47%

Benefits

Working for the DOJ provides more than just a paycheck; it offers a robust federal benefits package:

Health & Retirement: Access to the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and comprehensive health insurance plans.
Work-Life Balance: Generous accrual of paid vacation and sick leave, plus all federal holidays.
Professional Growth: Access to elite federal training programs and the opportunity to work alongside seasoned legal professionals.

Application Tips

Respect the Limits: Your resume must not exceed two pages. If it is longer, you will be automatically disqualified.
Detail is King: Ensure your work history includes the exact month, day, and year of employment, and specify if roles were full-time or part-time.
Use the Questionnaire: The online occupational questionnaire is part of the formal application package—take your time to answer honestly and thoroughly.

Becoming an Assistant United States Attorney is a career-defining move for any legal professional. If you possess the drive, analytical rigor, and commitment to justice, we encourage you to submit your application for these critical roles in the Eastern District of California.

Why This Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal Division) Job Matters

Launch a high-impact career in federal litigation with the Department of Justice. Join the Eastern District of California as an Assistant United States Attorney and represent the government in cases that shape justice.

Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal Division) Job Overview

The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of California is seeking dedicated, analytical, and skilled legal professionals to join its Criminal Division. As an Assistant U.S. Attorney (AUSA), you will litigate a wide spectrum of federal criminal matters—ranging from complex white-collar investigations to national security and violent crime prosecutions. With offices in Sacramento, Fresno, and Bakersfield, this role offers the unique opportunity to perform vital public service while enjoying the diverse landscapes and recreational opportunities of California.

Requirements for Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal Division)

Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree or equivalent from an accredited institution.
Active member in good standing of the Bar of any U.S. jurisdiction.
U.S. Citizenship.
Must be able to successfully complete a comprehensive background investigation, including drug testing, credit, and tax checks.
Submission of a complete application package, including a maximum two-page resume.

Preferred Qualifications for Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal Division)

Three to five years of litigation experience handling all phases of trial, discovery, and appeals.
Experience with federal grand jury practice and multi-agency task forces.
In-depth knowledge of investigatory techniques such as electronic surveillance, search warrants, and asset forfeiture.
Exceptional legal research, writing, and oral advocacy skills.
Demonstrated ability to function effectively in high-pressure, fast-paced environments.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs.
✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
✓Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
✓Life insurance coverage.
✓Opportunities for professional growth and specialized training.

💡 How to Apply Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal Division) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal Division) Job

Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
Review the vacancy requirements and prepare a two-page resume.
Complete the mandatory online occupational questionnaire.
Submit your resume and any required documentation through the online portal.
Monitor your application status via the USAJOBS dashboard.
Complete any follow-up assessments or interviews if invited.

💡 General Tips

Strictly adhere to the two-page limit for your resume; exceeding this will result in immediate disqualification.
Ensure your resume lists exact employment dates (month, day, and year) and weekly hours worked.
Clearly highlight your experience with grand juries, complex investigations, and trial litigation.
If claiming veterans' preference, ensure all required documentation (such as DD 214 or SF 15) is attached.
Submit your application before the initial cut-off date to ensure early consideration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for multiple office locations?

Yes, your application will be considered for vacancies in Sacramento, Fresno, and Bakersfield based on the preferences you indicate.

Is telework available for this position?

This position is not designated as telework-eligible; the nature of the work requires active, on-site presence in the courtroom and office.

What happens after I submit my application?

Applications are reviewed for eligibility. If selected for further consideration, you will be invited to interview with an attorney panel. Following a potential offer, you must clear a full security background investigation.

Is relocation assistance offered?

No, relocation expenses are not authorized for these positions.

What is the security clearance level?

This role is considered a special-sensitive/high-risk position and requires a full background check.

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 law enforcement arm of the federal government. The United States Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of California is responsible for enforcing federal laws, representing the government in civil litigation, and managing the collection of restitution for victims. Working here means becoming part of a diverse, mission-driven team dedicated to the principles of justice, integrity, and the rule of law.