Launching Your Career as an Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA)
Are you an experienced attorney with a passion for justice and a desire to serve the American public? The Department of Justice (DOJ) is currently seeking talented legal professionals to join the Criminal Division in the Middle District of North Carolina. This position offers a dynamic environment where you will manage high-stakes cases and contribute to the safety and security of the nation.
Job Responsibilities
As an Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal), you will be at the front line of federal law enforcement. Your responsibilities will grow in complexity as you gain experience, but will generally include:
- Prosecuting a wide array of federal crimes, including drug trafficking, fraud, violent crime, and human trafficking.
- Collaborating with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to conduct investigations.
- Representing the United States in federal District Court and the Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit.
- Managing your own caseload from investigation through trial and sentencing.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet strict federal hiring standards:
- Citizenship: You must be a United States citizen.
- Education: A Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree is mandatory.
- Bar Admission: You must be an active member of the bar in any U.S. jurisdiction.
- Experience: A minimum of 3 years of post-J.D. legal experience is required.
- Integrity: You must pass a comprehensive background check and drug screening.
Comparison of Attorney Roles
| Feature | Assistant US Attorney | Private Practice Attorney |
|---|---|---|
| Client Base | The United States of America | Individual/Corporate Clients |
| Primary Focus | Justice and Public Interest | Profitability and Advocacy |
| Courtroom Exposure | High, Frequent Federal Litigation | Varies significantly |
| Salary Structure | Government Pay Scale (AD) | Market-based/Billing Hours |
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a highly competitive salary range of $82,459 to $197,100, which includes locality pay adjustments. Beyond the salary, the federal government provides a robust benefits package, including comprehensive health insurance, life insurance, retirement savings through the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS), and generous paid leave (vacation, sick, and federal holidays).
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the USAJOBS portal. Ensure your resume is exactly two pages or less; failing to follow formatting instructions will result in immediate disqualification. You are encouraged to highlight your litigation experience and any relevant volunteer work that demonstrates your commitment to the law.
This position is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the rule of law. If you are prepared for the challenge of federal litigation and wish to make a lasting impact on your community, we encourage you to submit your application before the closing date of September 30, 2026.
Why This Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal) Job Matters
Launch a high-impact legal career serving the U.S. government in North Carolina. Join the Middle District of North Carolina’s Criminal Division as an Assistant United States Attorney.
Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal) Job Overview
The Department of Justice, specifically the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Middle District of North Carolina, is seeking motivated Assistant United States Attorneys to join their criminal litigation team. Based in Greensboro and Winston-Salem, you will manage complex caseloads, lead federal investigations, and represent the interests of the United States in federal court. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to public safety by prosecuting a wide spectrum of federal offenses, including violent crime, drug trafficking, and national security threats.
Requirements for Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal)
- Must be a United States citizen.
- Hold a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
- Maintain active membership in the bar of any U.S. jurisdiction.
- Possess at least 3 years of post-J.D. legal or relevant professional experience.
- Meet residency requirements for the Middle District of North Carolina (or within 25 miles thereof).
- Registration with the Selective Service System for male applicants born after December 31, 1959.
- Must successfully complete a thorough background investigation, credit and tax checks, and a pre-employment drug screening.
Preferred Qualifications for Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal)
- Superior analytical, research, and legal writing skills.
- Proven experience handling courtroom litigation.
- Ability to exercise sound, fair, and independent judgment.
- Strong interpersonal skills for collaborating with law enforcement and opposing counsel.
- Demonstrated dedication to public service and excellence in legal practice.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance and life insurance coverage.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
- ✓Telework options as permitted by agency policy.
💡 How to Apply Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal) Job
- Log in or create an account on USAJOBS.
- Review the vacancy announcement and ensure your resume is strictly limited to two pages.
- Complete the mandatory online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your resume, cover letter (optional but recommended), and any required supporting documentation (e.g., veterans' preference documents).
- Verify your application status via the 'Application Status' link in your USAJOBS account.
💡 General Tips
- Your resume must not exceed two pages; exceed this limit and you will be automatically disqualified.
- Ensure your resume provides specific details: official job titles, series/grades (for federal positions), employer contact details, start/end dates (month/day/year), and a detailed breakdown of duties.
- If claiming veterans' preference, ensure you attach the appropriate documentation, such as a DD-214, at the time of application.
- Apply well before the deadline; technical issues or high traffic can occur as the closing date approaches.
- Double-check that you have included your hours worked per week for all positions, as this is critical for verifying experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the geographic scope of this position?
These roles are based in the Middle District of North Carolina, with offices located in Greensboro and Winston-Salem.
Can non-citizens apply for this role?
Generally, DOJ positions require U.S. citizenship. Non-citizens are only considered in extremely rare circumstances where it is essential to the agency's mission and meets strict legal requirements.
What happens after I submit my application?
Your application will be reviewed for eligibility. Qualified candidates may be invited to interview with an attorney panel. If selected, the process continues with a background investigation, credit check, and drug test.
Job from Executive Office For U.S. Attorneys And The Office Of The U.S. Attorneys
The Department of Justice stands as the primary federal agency responsible for enforcing the law and defending the interests of the United States. Within the DOJ, the United States Attorney’s Offices (USAOs) act as the principal litigators for the government. The Middle District of North Carolina serves a population of approximately 3 million people across 24 counties, handling a diverse and active federal docket. Our offices in Greensboro and Winston-Salem are dedicated to high standards of professional development and excellence.