Pursue a Purpose-Driven Legal Career: Assistant United States Attorney (Civil) in Houston, Texas

Are you an accomplished attorney seeking a role where your legal expertise directly contributes to the nation's justice system? The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Texas, a vital component of the Department of Justice, is actively seeking a skilled and motivated Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) to join their Civil Division in Houston. This position offers a unique opportunity to represent the United States in significant civil matters, tackle complex legal challenges, and uphold the rule of law in one of the country's busiest districts. If you are driven by public service and aspire to a career with profound impact, this role is designed for you.

About the Agency: Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys and the Southern District of Texas

The Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys (EOUSA) supports and oversees the U.S. Attorney Offices nationwide, ensuring the consistent and vigorous enforcement of federal laws. The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Texas (SDTX) stands at the forefront of critical national legal work. Spanning 43 counties and covering 44,000 square miles, it serves over 10 million people. The SDTX is deeply involved in securing the border, dismantling drug trafficking operations, prosecuting fraudsters who exploit the public, and apprehending violent criminals. Employment here is not merely a job; it's a challenging, rewarding, and impactful career dedicated to public service and the administration of justice.

Your Role: Job Responsibilities as an Assistant United States Attorney (Civil)

As an Assistant United States Attorney in the Civil Division's Affirmative Civil Enforcement (ACE) section, you will play a pivotal role in representing the interests of the United States. Your caseload will focus on complex civil matters, potentially including affirmative actions brought under significant legislation such as the False Claims Act, Stark Law, Anti-Kickback Statute, and FIRREA. Your duties will encompass the full spectrum of civil litigation, from the initial stages of investigation through potential settlement or trial.

Key responsibilities include:

• Legal Research and Analysis: Conducting in-depth research on complex legal issues and providing thorough analysis.
• Document Drafting: Preparing a wide range of legal documents, including pleadings, motions, briefs, and legal memoranda.
• Discovery Management: Drafting and responding to discovery requests, managing document review, and organizing case files.
• Depositions: Taking and defending depositions of parties and witnesses.
• Court Representation: Representing the United States as primary or secondary counsel in various judicial proceedings, including hearings, arbitrations, and trials.
• Investigation Oversight: Guiding and overseeing investigations from inception.

As you gain experience, your responsibilities will expand, and you will be assigned increasingly complex cases, offering continuous professional growth.

Qualifications You'll Need

To be considered for this critical role, you must meet the following essential qualifications:

Required Qualifications:

• Education: A Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree or an equivalent legal qualification is mandatory by your official start date.
• Bar Membership: You must be an active member in good standing of the bar of any U.S. jurisdiction by your start date.
• Citizenship: U.S. citizenship is a requirement for this position.
• Application Submission: Your resume must not exceed two pages and should comprehensively detail your relevant employment history, including official position titles, employer contact information, start and end dates (month, day, year), and a list of duties and accomplishments. Failure to adhere to the page limit will result in ineligibility.
• Cover Letter: A cover letter addressed to United States Attorney Aaron F. Reitz is required.
• Writing Sample: Submit a persuasive writing sample, no more than 20 pages, demonstrating your individual legal writing ability. This sample should have been composed within the last three years.
• Selective Service: Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must certify registration with the Selective Service System or exemption.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Active membership in the Texas bar is highly desirable.
• Demonstrated experience and familiarity with key statutes such as the False Claims Act, Stark Act, Anti-Kickback Statute, and FIRREA.
• Superior legal writing and research abilities.
• Outstanding organizational and time management skills.
• Strong academic credentials.
• A proven commitment to professionalism, ethics, civility, and public service.
• Excellent judgment and a dedicated work ethic.
• The capacity to work both independently and collaboratively with legal teams and staff.
• Proficiency in legal analysis, research, and writing.

Note: All qualifications must be met as of the announcement's closing date.

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive annual salary ranging from $88,510 to $197,100. The specific salary level will be determined administratively, primarily based on the number of years of professional attorney experience you possess. This range reflects the AD grade structure within the federal attorney system.

A Glimpse at Federal Benefits

Joining the Department of Justice as an AUSA comes with a comprehensive benefits package designed to support federal employees:

• Paid Time Off: Generous vacation and sick leave.
• Holidays: Paid time off for federal holidays.
• Insurance: Comprehensive health benefits and life insurance options.
• Retirement: Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS), a robust retirement plan.

For a more detailed overview of benefits available to federal employees, please refer to the USAJOBS Pay and Benefits section.

Application Process and Tips

Applying for this esteemed position requires careful attention to detail. The application must be submitted through USAJOBS by September 30, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time.

Key Steps:

1. Create/Log In: Access your USAJOBS account.
2. Complete Questionnaire: Fill out the online occupational questionnaire.
3. Upload Documents: Submit your resume (max 2 pages), cover letter, and writing sample.
4. Veterans' Preference: If applicable, indicate and document your preference.
5. Submit: Review and submit your complete application package.

Application Tips:

• Resume Precision: Strictly adhere to the two-page limit for your resume. Ensure it is error-free and highlights relevant experience and accomplishments.
• Writing Sample Quality: Your writing sample is crucial. Choose a piece that best showcases your persuasive legal writing skills and represents your individual work.
• Cover Letter: Personalize your cover letter to express your interest and qualifications for this specific role.
• Verification: After submission, check your USAJOBS application status to confirm receipt and processing.
• Early Application: Consider submitting your application well before the deadline, as reviews may occur periodically.
• Alternative Application: If unable to apply online, contact the Southern District of Texas office for guidance before the closing date.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

| Question | | :---------------------------------------------------------------------------- | : | What is the salary range for this Assistant United States Attorney position? | The annual salary ranges from $88,510 to $197,100, based on experience. | What are the core responsibilities of this role? | Handling civil cases, investigations, legal research, drafting, and court representation for the U.S. | | What qualifications are strictly required for this position? | A J.D. degree, active bar membership in any U.S. jurisdiction, and U.S. citizenship are required. | | What makes the Southern District of Texas unique for an attorney? | It's one of the largest and busiest districts, offering extensive experience in critical legal areas. | | Will relocation expenses be covered? | No, relocation expenses will not be authorized. | | What is the application deadline? | September 30, 2026, at 11:59 PM ET. |

Serving as an Assistant United States Attorney in the Southern District of Texas is more than a legal career; it's a commitment to justice and public service. This role offers unparalleled opportunities for professional growth, challenging casework, and the satisfaction of making a significant contribution to the legal landscape of the United States. If you possess the requisite legal acumen, a dedication to public service, and the drive to excel in a demanding environment, we encourage you to apply and become a vital part of the Department of Justice.