A Career in Justice: Becoming an Assistant United States Attorney in the Southern District of Texas

Are you a legal professional looking for more than just a paycheck? The United States Department of Justice (DOJ) is seeking driven, ethical, and high-performing attorneys to serve as Assistant United States Attorneys (AUSAs) within the Southern District of Texas (SDTX). This role is not for the faint of heart; it is for those who thrive in fast-paced environments and are dedicated to upholding the rule of law.

Job Responsibilities

As an AUSA in the Civil Division, your daily duties will evolve as your experience grows. You will be expected to:

Handle complex civil litigation in federal courts.
Manage land condemnation matters related to border security.
Issue warrants and defend asylum and passport cases.
Conduct independent legal research and prepare pleadings.
Collaborate with investigative agencies and support staff.

Work Environment Comparison

Feature	Private Practice	SDTX AUSA Office
Client Base	Corporate/Individual	The United States of America
Nature of Work	Profit-Driven	Public Service/Rule of Law
Courtroom Frequency	Variable	High
Impact	Client Interests	National Interest

Requirements

To be considered for this role, candidates must meet strict federal standards:

Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.
Education: Possession of a J.D. degree.
Licensure: Active member of the bar in any U.S. jurisdiction.
Clearance: Ability to pass a high-risk security background check.

Salary Overview

Compensation is administratively set based on your years of professional experience as an attorney. The range is competitive, starting at $76,748 and going up to $197,100 per year, reflecting the seniority and level of responsibility of the position.

Benefits

Federal employment with the DOJ comes with a comprehensive benefits package designed to support a healthy work-life balance, including federal health, dental, and vision insurance, the FERS retirement system, and generous leave accrual.

Application Tips

Watch the Clock: Applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM EST on September 30, 2026.
Keep it Short: Your resume cannot exceed two pages. Adhere to this, or your application will not be reviewed.
Quality Writing: Your writing sample is a critical reflection of your skill. Ensure it is persuasive and recent.

This position is a unique opportunity to serve your country while sharpening your litigation skills in one of the busiest legal districts in the nation. If you are ready to take the next step in your career, ensure your application is polished and submitted before the cutoff.

Why This Assistant United States Attorney - Term (Civil) Job Matters

Step into the front line of American justice—apply for an Assistant United States Attorney position in the Southern District of Texas and lead cases that truly impact the nation.

Assistant United States Attorney - Term (Civil) Job Overview

The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Texas is recruiting a temporary Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) for the Civil Division. Serving a massive geographic area spanning 43 counties, this office is one of the busiest in the country. This role offers an unparalleled opportunity for a dedicated legal professional to handle high-stakes litigation, including land condemnation, immigration enforcement, and complex civil matters, while protecting the life, liberty, and property of citizens.

Requirements for Assistant United States Attorney - Term (Civil)

Must be a U.S. citizen.
Possess a J.D. degree from an accredited law school.
Must be an active member in good standing of the bar (any U.S. jurisdiction).
Must pass a comprehensive background investigation.
Must pass a pre-employment drug screening.
Male applicants born after 1959 must be registered with the Selective Service System.

Preferred Qualifications for Assistant United States Attorney - Term (Civil)

Exceptional legal research and writing abilities.
Strong courtroom experience, including lead counsel roles in jury trials.
High-volume litigation experience.
Excellent organizational and time management skills.
Demonstrated commitment to ethics, civility, and public service.
Proficiency in drafting complex pleadings and correspondence.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options.
✓Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) participation.
✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
✓Life insurance coverage.
✓Opportunities for telework based on agency policy.
✓Structured training and mentorship programs.

💡 How to Apply Assistant United States Attorney - Term (Civil) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Assistant United States Attorney - Term (Civil) Job

Create or update your profile on the USAJOBS platform.
Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages, detailing your full employment history.
Draft a formal cover letter addressed to the United States Attorney.
Select a persuasive writing sample of 20 pages or less from the last three years.
Complete the online occupational questionnaire via the application portal.
Submit your full application package before the deadline.
Monitor your status via your USAJOBS account dashboard.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit to avoid disqualification.
Clearly indicate any veterans' preference eligibility in your documents and questionnaire.
Submit your application early; first-round consideration begins on August 7, 2026.
Verify that your writing sample is your own individual work.
Double-check all contact information for past employers listed on your resume.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a permanent position?

No, this is a temporary appointment with an expiration date of September 30, 2029.

Can I apply if I am not currently living in Texas?

Yes, but be aware that AUSAs are generally required to reside within the district or within 25 miles of their assigned office.

How is the salary determined for this position?

The salary is administratively determined based on your total years of professional legal experience, falling within the $76,748 to $197,100 range.

What if I have a conflict of interest?

You must disclose any potential conflicts, such as current representation of clients in matters involving the U.S. Attorney's office.

Is relocation assistance offered?

No, relocation expenses are not authorized for this position.

Job from Executive Office For U.S. Attorneys And The Office Of The U.S. Attorneys

The Southern District of Texas is a legal powerhouse, spanning 44,000 square miles and serving over 8 million people. As a Civil Division AUSA, you will be on the front lines of significant litigation, including land condemnation, immigration enforcement, and the defense of the United States in complex civil suits. Working here means joining a team of over 100,000 dedicated public servants.