Launch Your Career as an Assistant United States Attorney in California
The Department of Justice (DOJ) and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of California are looking for dedicated, high-caliber legal professionals to fill the role of Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) within the Immigration Unit. This is an exceptional opportunity to handle complex federal litigation and contribute to the mission of upholding the rule of law.
Location Highlights
| City | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Sacramento | State capital, cultural hub, access to Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Nevada. |
| Fresno | Central California location, proximity to Yosemite and Sequoia National Parks. |
Job Responsibilities
As an AUSA in the Immigration Unit, you will:
- Defend the government against habeas corpus and mandamus petitions.
- Prosecute affirmative immigration enforcement actions.
- Represent federal agencies in district court.
- Gradually take on more complex litigation as your expertise grows.
Requirements
Candidates must hold a J.D. degree, be active members of the bar in good standing, and be U.S. citizens. You must demonstrate exceptional writing and courtroom abilities, as well as the capacity to work independently in a demanding environment.
Salary and Benefits
Compensation is determined by experience, with locality pay adjustments for specific cities. Federal employees receive a robust package, including:
- Comprehensive health and life insurance.
- Federal pension benefits.
- Paid time off and federal holidays.
If you are ready to apply your legal expertise in a high-impact federal role, we invite you to submit your application package. Join a team where your work directly impacts the safety and integrity of the nation.
Why This Assistant United States Attorney (Immigration) Job Matters
Advance the rule of law while building a high-impact career in federal immigration litigation with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of California.
Assistant United States Attorney (Immigration) Job Overview
The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of California is actively seeking a skilled, motivated attorney to join the Criminal Division’s Immigration Unit. This position offers a unique opportunity to represent the federal government in complex immigration-related litigation, including habeas corpus, mandamus, and Administrative Procedure Act challenges. You will serve as a key advocate in federal district court, contributing to critical enforcement actions while enjoying the potential for growth into broader civil or criminal practice areas.
Requirements for Assistant United States Attorney (Immigration)
- Possess a J.D. degree or equivalent from an accredited law school.
- Be an active member in good standing of the bar in any U.S. jurisdiction.
- Must be a United States citizen.
- Successfully pass a pre-employment background investigation including drug testing, fingerprinting, and credit/tax checks.
- Submit a resume not exceeding two pages.
- Complete the required online occupational questionnaire.
Preferred Qualifications for Assistant United States Attorney (Immigration)
- Three to five years of litigation experience involving discovery, trials, and appeals.
- Familiarity with federal grand jury practice and multi-agency task forces.
- Proven experience with complex investigative techniques, such as electronic surveillance, search warrants, and asset forfeiture.
- Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively in a collaborative, team-oriented legal office.
- High level of computer literacy, including electronic court filing and automated legal research tools.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance programs.
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
- ✓Work-life balance through potential telework arrangements.
💡 How to Apply Assistant United States Attorney (Immigration) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Assistant United States Attorney (Immigration) Job
- Create or log into your account on the federal recruitment portal.
- Complete the mandatory online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload a resume (strictly limited to two pages) detailing employment history, duties, and accomplishments.
- Submit veterans' preference documentation if applicable (e.g., DD 214 or SF 15).
- Review your application status via the portal to ensure all documents have cleared the automated virus scan.
- Confirm submission prior to the 11:59 PM ET deadline on the specified closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume concise; the two-page limit is strictly enforced and failure to comply will result in disqualification.
- Ensure your employment history includes dates (month, day, and year) and clearly defines full-time or part-time hours.
- Highlight experience with multi-agency cooperation and investigative techniques if applicable to your career history.
- Apply early; the office conducts referrals at one-week intervals starting June 2026.
- Monitor your status through the portal frequently to ensure all uploaded files were successfully processed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply if I am not a U.S. citizen?
Generally, DOJ positions require U.S. citizenship. While rare exceptions exist under strict security requirements, most applicants must be citizens.
Are there different salary ranges for Sacramento and Fresno?
Yes. Due to locality pay adjustments, the salary range in Sacramento is $85,075–$197,100, while in Fresno, it is $77,135–$180,986.
Job from Executive Office For U.S. Attorneys And The Office Of The U.S. Attorneys
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of California serves the federal legal interests of the United States. Our mission is broad, covering criminal prosecutions, civil litigation, and the protection of civil rights. We pride ourselves on a professional, collaborative environment that values intellectual rigor and a commitment to public service.