Pursuing Justice: The Assistant United States Attorney (Appellate) Role in Texas
Are you a skilled litigator with a passion for appellate advocacy? The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Texas is currently seeking talented attorneys to serve as Appellate Assistant United States Attorneys (AUSAs). This is a unique opportunity to shape the law, protect the interests of the United States, and uphold the highest standards of justice.
Job Responsibilities
As an Appellate AUSA, your primary responsibilities will include:
- Representing the United States in the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals.
- Drafting complex appellate briefs and presenting oral arguments.
- Analyzing constitutional, statutory, and evidentiary matters.
- Providing high-level legal counsel to the U.S. Attorney.
- Participating in moot courts and peer review of legal briefs.
Requirements
To be considered, you must meet the following criteria:
- Education: Possession of a J.D. degree.
- Bar Admission: Active member of any U.S. jurisdiction bar.
- Experience: Minimum of one year post-J.D. legal experience.
- Citizenship: U.S. citizenship is strictly required.
Salary Comparison by Location
| Location | Base/Locality Range |
|---|---|
| Austin, TX | $78,905 - $197,100 |
| El Paso, TX | $76,748 - $197,100 |
| San Antonio, TX | $77,875 - $197,100 |
Benefits
The federal government provides a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement planning via the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS), and generous leave accrual.
Application Tips
- Respect the Constraints: The two-page resume limit is absolute. Exceeding it will result in disqualification.
- Be Specific: Explicitly rank your preferred locations in your cover letter.
- Detail Matters: Ensure all employment history includes exact start/end dates and detailed descriptions of duties.
Can I work remotely?
This position is generally not remote-eligible and requires physical presence in the district.
Serving as an Appellate AUSA is more than a job—it is a commitment to the rule of law. If you possess the legal acumen, integrity, and drive to represent the United States at the appellate level, we encourage you to submit your application before the July 31, 2026, deadline.
Why This Assistant United States Attorney (Appellate) Job Matters
Join the front lines of federal justice—the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Texas is seeking skilled legal minds to serve as Appellate Assistant United States Attorneys.
Assistant United States Attorney (Appellate) Job Overview
The Department of Justice, specifically the Western District of Texas, is recruiting dedicated legal professionals for Appellate AUSA positions based in Austin, El Paso, and San Antonio. This role offers a unique opportunity to represent the United States in the Fifth Circuit, influence federal jurisprudence, and work within one of the most dynamic legal districts in the nation. As an AUSA, you will manage complex litigation, provide expert legal guidance, and contribute to the high standards of the U.S. Attorney's Office.
Requirements for Assistant United States Attorney (Appellate)
- Possession of a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree.
- Active membership in the bar of any U.S. jurisdiction.
- At least one year of post-J.D. legal or other relevant experience.
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Ability to pass a comprehensive background investigation and drug screening.
- Must meet residency requirements for the appointed district.
Preferred Qualifications for Assistant United States Attorney (Appellate)
- Superior academic performance.
- Exceptional legal research and writing proficiency.
- Advanced analytical and organizational skills.
- Proven courtroom experience.
- Demonstrated commitment to public service, ethics, and professional civility.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs.
- ✓Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) participation.
- ✓Generous paid leave (vacation, sick time, and federal holidays).
- ✓Life insurance coverage.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
💡 How to Apply Assistant United States Attorney (Appellate) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Assistant United States Attorney (Appellate) Job
- Create or log into your account at USAJOBS.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two pages.
- Draft a cover letter specifying and ranking your location preferences.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit all materials by the closing date of July 31, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Adhere strictly to the two-page resume limit; non-compliance results in automatic disqualification.
- Clearly state and rank your office preference (Austin, El Paso, or San Antonio) in your cover letter.
- Highlight specific legal accomplishments and relevant experience in your resume.
- Ensure all contact information and employment dates are precise.
- Check your application status regularly through your user dashboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there specific residency requirements for this position?
Yes, Assistant United States Attorneys are generally required to reside within the district to which they are appointed or within a 25-mile radius.
Is travel expected in this role?
Occasional travel is required for this position.
How is the salary for this position determined?
Salary is administratively determined based on professional attorney experience and the specific locality pay of the assigned office (Austin, El Paso, or San Antonio).
Do I need a security clearance?
Yes, this position is designated as Critical-Sensitive and requires a successful background investigation.
Job from Executive Office For U.S. Attorneys And The Office Of The U.S. Attorneys
The Department of Justice (DOJ) serves as the legal arm of the U.S. government. The Western District of Texas is a critical hub, covering 93,000 square miles and significant portions of the U.S.-Mexico border. Working here puts you at the forefront of complex criminal and civil litigation, including transnational crime, constitutional law, and federal policy enforcement.