Launch Your Legal Career as an Assistant United States Attorney in San Diego

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of California (SDCA) serves as a cornerstone of federal legal enforcement in one of the most dynamic and busiest districts in the nation. We are currently seeking highly motivated legal professionals to join our Civil Division as Assistant United States Attorneys (AUSAs). This role offers an unparalleled opportunity to represent the interests of the United States, its agencies, and its employees in high-stakes, meaningful litigation.

Job Responsibilities

As a Civil AUSA, your duties will be broad and intellectually stimulating:

Defensive Practice: Represent the U.S. in matters ranging from constitutional torts and medical malpractice to immigration law.
Affirmative Practice: Investigate and prosecute actions under vital statutes such as the False Claims Act and the Controlled Substances Act.
Litigation: Handle cases in both the District Court and the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals.
Professional Growth: Manage increasingly complex legal challenges as you gain experience and training within the DOJ ecosystem.

Requirements

To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Education: Must hold a J.D. degree.
Licensure: Must be an active member of the bar in any U.S. jurisdiction by the start date.
Background: Must pass a thorough FBI background investigation and a pre-employment drug screening.
Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.

Salary and Benefits Comparison

Feature	Details
Salary Range	$87,671 – $197,100 per year
Retirement	Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
Insurance	Comprehensive Health and Life Insurance
Work-Life	Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays

Application Tips

Respect the Limits: Your resume must not exceed two pages. Over-length resumes will be automatically rejected.
Documentation: Ensure your writing sample is a high-quality brief or memo under 15 pages.
Clarity: If claiming veteran preference, ensure all relevant forms (SF-15, DD-214) are attached.
Status Checks: Use the USAJOBS portal to track your application process throughout the recruitment lifecycle.

Serving as an Assistant United States Attorney is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the public good. If you possess the legal acumen, integrity, and drive to serve, we encourage you to submit your application by July 27, 2026. Join the Southern District of California and make a lasting impact on the legal landscape of our country.

Why This Assistant United States Attorney Job Matters

Launch a high-impact legal career with the Department of Justice in the Southern District of California, where your advocacy directly protects the nation's interests.

Assistant United States Attorney Job Overview

The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of California is seeking dedicated and skilled attorneys to join the Civil Division. As an Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA), you will represent the federal government, its agencies, and its employees in complex litigation. This role involves both defensive work—such as handling immigration, personal injury, and constitutional tort cases—and affirmative litigation, including enforcement under the False Claims Act. You will play a pivotal role in one of the country's most active districts, managing a high-volume caseload while contributing to the rule of law.

Requirements for Assistant United States Attorney

Possess a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree or equivalent.
Be an active member in good standing of the bar of any U.S. jurisdiction by the date of entry on duty.
Maintain United States citizenship.
Complete a successful FBI background investigation, including credit, tax, and arrest record checks.
Pass a mandatory drug test prior to appointment.
If male and born after December 31, 1959, you must be registered with the Selective Service System.

Preferred Qualifications for Assistant United States Attorney

Demonstrated ability to perform rapid, high-level legal analysis.
Superior writing, oral communication, and research capabilities.
Strong interpersonal skills and professional judgment.
Extensive experience with automated legal research, electronic court filing, and modern office software.
Proven experience working effectively with support staff and client agencies.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
✓Comprehensive health insurance plans
✓Life insurance options
✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays
✓Professional training opportunities through the Department of Justice

💡 How to Apply Assistant United States Attorney Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Assistant United States Attorney Job

Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
Complete the mandatory Online Occupational Questionnaire.
Prepare your resume (maximum two pages) ensuring it includes detailed employment history, hours worked, and specific accomplishments.
Draft a cover letter and select a legal writing sample (not to exceed 15 pages).
Complete the Civil AUSA Application Form.
Submit all materials via the USAJOBS portal before the closing date.
Monitor your application status through your USAJOBS account dashboard.

💡 General Tips

Follow the resume page limit strictly; applications exceeding two pages will be disqualified.
Clearly indicate your veteran status and attach relevant supporting documentation if applicable.
Start early to allow time for document virus scanning.
Double-check that your legal writing sample is a high-quality brief or memorandum.
If you have any conflicts of interest regarding current clients, disclose these clearly to the office.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of this appointment?

This is a term appointment that expires on September 30, 2029, though it may be extended or made permanent.

Is residency in San Diego required?

Yes, AUSAs generally must reside within the district or within 25 miles of the appointment location.

How is the salary determined?

Basic pay is administratively determined based on your professional legal experience and includes a 33.72% locality pay component.

What if I cannot apply online?

If you are unable to use the online portal, please reach out to the Southern District of California HR office at (619) 546-9474 before the closing date.

Is relocation assistance provided?

Relocation expenses may be authorized in accordance with federal regulations.

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

The Department of Justice (DOJ) is dedicated to upholding the rule of law, ensuring public safety, and protecting the civil rights of all citizens. As part of the Office of the U.S. Attorneys, the Southern District of California handles a diverse array of caseloads that require sharp intellect, absolute integrity, and a commitment to justice.