Pursue Justice: Launching Your Career as an Assistant United States Attorney in Austin
The Department of Justice (DOJ) remains the pinnacle of legal practice in the United States. For attorneys seeking a career defined by integrity, complexity, and a profound impact on the rule of law, the role of Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) offers an unparalleled experience. The Western District of Texas is currently accepting applications for an AUSA position within the Affirmative Civil Enforcement (ACE) unit in Austin. This role is a unique gateway for those dedicated to defending the interests of the American people.
Job Responsibilities
As an ACE AUSA, your duties will be diverse and intellectually demanding. You will represent the federal government in civil litigation, including:
- Leading investigations into healthcare and procurement fraud.
- Litigating False Claims Act (qui tam) cases.
- Enforcing the Controlled Substances Act.
- Drafting legal memoranda and conducting complex discovery.
- Appearing in trial and appellate court proceedings.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, candidates must meet specific criteria:
- J.D. degree from an accredited law school.
- Active bar membership in any U.S. jurisdiction.
- Minimum of one year post-J.D. legal experience.
- U.S. citizenship.
Salary and Benefits Comparison
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $78,905 - $197,100 |
| Grade | AD-21 to AD-29 |
| Benefits | Federal Health, Retirement, and Leave |
| Schedule | Full-time, Permanent |
Application Tips
- The Resume is Key: Keep your resume to exactly two pages. The automated systems are strictly enforced, and over-length resumes will lead to immediate disqualification.
- Detail Your Experience: Be explicit about your duties, including volunteer work, as these contribute to your overall competency profile.
- Use the Portal: Always apply through the official USAJOBS interface to track your application status effectively.
Serving as an AUSA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to public service. If you possess the legal acumen and the drive to tackle complex civil enforcement matters, we encourage you to submit your application to join our team in Austin, Texas.
Why This Assistant United States Attorney (Affirmative Civil Enforcement - Ace) Job Matters
Serve justice on the front lines: Join the Department of Justice as an Assistant United States Attorney in Austin and lead critical Affirmative Civil Enforcement initiatives.
Assistant United States Attorney (Affirmative Civil Enforcement - Ace) Job Overview
The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Western District of Texas is seeking a dedicated and skilled Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) to join its Civil Division. As an AUSA in the Affirmative Civil Enforcement (ACE) unit, you will represent the United States in high-stakes litigation, manage complex fraud investigations, and ensure the enforcement of laws protecting the nation’s health, safety, and economic welfare. This is a unique opportunity to work on cases ranging from False Claims Act litigation to healthcare fraud and drug diversion, all while serving in one of the most active federal districts in the country.
Requirements for Assistant United States Attorney (Affirmative Civil Enforcement - Ace)
- Possession of a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree.
- Current active member in good standing of the bar of any U.S. jurisdiction.
- At least one year of post-J.D. legal or relevant professional experience.
- United States citizenship.
- Ability to pass a comprehensive background investigation and drug test.
- Compliance with residency requirements (must reside within 25 miles of the district).
- Registration with the Selective Service System for male applicants born after Dec 31, 1959.
Preferred Qualifications for Assistant United States Attorney (Affirmative Civil Enforcement - Ace)
- Exceptional academic record.
- Superior legal research and writing proficiency.
- Strong courtroom experience and litigation skills.
- Proven ability to handle complex, high-volume investigative caseloads.
- Outstanding organizational and analytical judgment.
- Demonstrated dedication to public service, ethics, and professional civility.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance options.
- ✓Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) participation.
- ✓Generous paid vacation and sick leave.
- ✓Recognized federal holidays.
- ✓Life insurance coverage.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
💡 How to Apply Assistant United States Attorney (Affirmative Civil Enforcement - Ace) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Assistant United States Attorney (Affirmative Civil Enforcement - Ace) Job
- Create or log into a USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages, detailing your specific duties, dates of employment, and hours worked.
- Draft a professional cover letter.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire via the application portal.
- Submit your full application package before the closing date of July 31, 2026.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS portal to ensure all documents have cleared the system virus scan.
💡 General Tips
- Adhere strictly to the two-page limit for your resume; exceeding this will disqualify your application.
- Clearly label your federal experience with series and grade, and your private sector experience with detailed descriptions of duties.
- If claiming Veterans' Preference, ensure you attach the required DD-214 or SF-15 documentation.
- Apply well before the deadline to account for system processing times.
- If you have served as a political appointee in the last five years, ensure your SF-50 is attached to avoid compliance issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of the ACE unit?
The ACE unit focuses on affirmative civil litigation, including investigating False Claims Act violations, procurement fraud, healthcare fraud, and actions related to the Controlled Substances Act.
Is travel expected for this position?
Yes, this position requires occasional travel to support litigation and investigative activities.
How is the salary for this position determined?
Pay is administratively determined based on your years of professional legal experience within the AD pay scale, inclusive of the local Austin cost-of-living adjustment.
Job from Executive Office For U.S. Attorneys And The Office Of The U.S. Attorneys
The United States Attorney's Office for the Western District of Texas is a critical component of the federal justice system. Covering a vast territory that includes 93,000 square miles and a significant portion of the U.S.-Mexico border, our district addresses some of the nation’s most challenging legal issues. As an employee of the DOJ, you are part of a massive, mission-driven organization committed to safety, civil rights, and the fair administration of justice.