Become an Assistant United States Attorney: A Career in Federal Prosecution
Are you a dedicated attorney with a passion for justice and a desire to tackle complex financial crime? The U.S. Attorney's Office (USAO) for the Middle District of North Carolina is currently seeking experienced legal professionals to join their Criminal Division as an Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA). This is an opportunity to serve the public, manage a high-stakes caseload, and contribute to the integrity of the U.S. legal system.
Job Responsibilities
As an AUSA in the white-collar section, your primary duties will involve investigating and prosecuting a wide array of financial crimes. Responsibilities include:
- Leading complex investigations into health care fraud and taxpayer-funded program abuse.
- Prosecuting mail, wire, and bank fraud schemes.
- Pursuing cases of money laundering, public corruption, and tax evasion.
- Managing a professional caseload from inception to trial.
- Representing the United States in the federal District Court and the Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit.
Qualifications
To be considered for this high-responsibility role, candidates must meet specific criteria:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Education | J.D. Degree from an accredited law school |
| Experience | Minimum 3 years of post-J.D. legal practice |
| Bar Membership | Active member in good standing in any U.S. jurisdiction |
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
| Suitability | Must pass extensive background checks, including drug and credit screenings |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $82,459 to $197,100 per year, which includes locality pay based on the region. Beyond the salary, AUSAs enjoy the comprehensive benefits package typical of federal employment, including generous leave, life and health insurance, and a robust retirement plan.
Application Tips
- Respect the Limits: Your resume must not exceed two pages. This is a strict requirement for all AUSA applicants.
- Documentation is Key: Have your references, cover letter, and writing sample (max 20 pages) ready to upload.
- Clarity: Clearly detail your legal history, including specific types of cases handled and court experience.
Joining the U.S. Attorney's Office is a significant career milestone that offers unparalleled litigation experience. If you are ready to represent the United States with excellence and integrity, apply today.
Why This Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal White-Collar) Job Matters
Launch a high-impact legal career as a federal prosecutor fighting white-collar crime in North Carolina.
Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal White-Collar) Job Overview
The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Middle District of North Carolina is seeking highly motivated attorneys for the position of Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA). This role is critical to the mission of upholding the rule of law by investigating and prosecuting complex white-collar financial crimes. You will represent the United States in federal court, manage your own diverse caseload, and work alongside a team of expert federal agents and auditors to ensure justice is served.
Requirements for Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal White-Collar)
- J.D. degree from an accredited law school.
- Current, active member in good standing of the bar of any U.S. jurisdiction.
- Minimum of three years of post-J.D. legal experience.
- U.S. citizenship.
- Successful completion of a comprehensive background check, including drug testing, credit, and tax audits.
Preferred Qualifications for Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal White-Collar)
- Proven track record in the investigation and prosecution of white-collar crime.
- Experience with complex litigation involving health care fraud, public corruption, tax evasion, and financial crimes.
- Strong courtroom advocacy, research, and legal writing skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively with law enforcement and diverse professional teams.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with locality pay
- ✓Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) participation
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance options
- ✓Life insurance coverage
- ✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays
- ✓Telework opportunities where applicable
💡 How to Apply Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal White-Collar) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal White-Collar) Job
- Create a profile on USAJOBS and ensure your resume is formatted correctly (maximum 2 pages).
- Complete the mandatory online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit all required documents: Resume, 20-page max writing sample, three professional references, and a detailed cover letter.
- Ensure your application is submitted before the closing date of September 30, 2026.
- Monitor your status through the USAJOBS portal.
💡 General Tips
- Adhere strictly to the two-page limit for your resume; exceeding this will disqualify your application.
- Be specific in your cover letter, detailing your relevant experience, including dates and full-time/part-time status.
- If you are claiming Veterans' Preference, ensure you attach the necessary supporting documentation like the DD-214.
- Have your writing sample ready before starting the application, as it must be 20 pages or fewer.
- Double-check your email address provided in the application for potential interview notifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this AUSA position?
This role focuses on prosecuting white-collar criminal matters, including health care fraud, money laundering, public corruption, and complex financial schemes.
Are relocation expenses covered?
No, relocation expenses are not authorized for these positions.
Is a security clearance required?
While it is a sensitive position, the primary requirement is a successful pre-employment suitability/fitness background investigation, including drug testing and credit checks.
Job from Executive Office For U.S. Attorneys And The Office Of The U.S. Attorneys
The Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys and the Office of the U.S. Attorneys are the backbone of the federal litigation system. The Middle District of North Carolina office serves approximately 3 million residents across 24 counties. With headquarters in Greensboro and a branch office in Winston-Salem, the office provides a dynamic and challenging environment for attorneys who want to sharpen their litigation skills while working on high-profile investigations and federal prosecutions.