Launch Your Career as an Assistant United States Attorney in Houston
Are you an attorney with a passion for public service and a drive for complex litigation? The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Texas (SDTX) is currently seeking experienced legal professionals to join its esteemed Criminal Division in Houston. This is a rare opportunity to contribute to some of the most significant legal matters in the United States while working alongside a dedicated team of public servants.
About the Southern District of Texas
The Southern District of Texas is a massive jurisdiction, encompassing 43 counties and covering over 44,000 square miles. With a responsibility to represent over 10 million people, this office handles an incredibly diverse and fast-paced workload. From dismantling international narcotics trafficking networks to holding fraudsters accountable for stealing from the public, the work performed here is essential to the safety and integrity of the nation.
Job Responsibilities
As an Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA), you will not be relegated to the sidelines. You will manage a varied caseload from your first day. Duties include:
- Prosecuting federal crimes including organized crime, immigration offenses, and public corruption.
- Handling white-collar criminal defense and asset forfeiture proceedings.
- Investigating complex crimes through grand jury proceedings.
- Representing the United States in courtroom litigation.
- Collaborating with investigative agencies to build strong, evidence-based cases.
Comparison: General Practice vs. Federal Prosecution
| Feature | General Practice | AUSA Role |
|---|---|---|
| Client | Individual/Corporate | United States of America |
| Caseload | Broad/Variable | Focused/Specialized |
| Impact | Client Success | Public Interest & Justice |
| Courtroom | Varies | High Intensity |
Requirements for Success
To be eligible, candidates must hold a J.D. degree and be active bar members. The office seeks individuals who demonstrate:
- Academic Excellence: A history of strong performance in law school.
- Analytical Precision: The ability to articulate complex legal issues under pressure.
- Experience: While we welcome a range of experience, first-chair trial experience is highly regarded.
- Ethics: A firm, unwavering commitment to civil service, ethics, and the rule of law.
Compensation and Benefits
Positions are available across grades AD-21 to AD-29. The salary range for these roles is $88,510 to $197,100, which includes 35% locality pay. In addition to a competitive salary, the Department of Justice offers a federal benefits package, including:
- Health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Accrued annual and sick leave.
- Life insurance plans.
Application Tips
Because this office receives a high volume of applications, ensuring yours is complete and follows instructions is vital. The resume must be no longer than two pages. Use your writing sample to demonstrate your ability to craft persuasive legal arguments without needing supervision. Most importantly, apply by September 4, 2026, to receive first-round consideration.
This position is more than a job—it is a mission to protect the life, liberty, and property of the citizens of the United States. If you are prepared for the rigor, the responsibility, and the rewards of the federal justice system, we invite you to submit your application to the Southern District of Texas today.
Why This Assistant United States Attorney Job Matters
Make a tangible impact on justice in America by serving as an Assistant United States Attorney in one of the nation's most dynamic and high-stakes legal districts.
Assistant United States Attorney Job Overview
The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Texas (SDTX) is seeking highly motivated, mission-driven attorneys to join their Criminal Division in Houston. This role offers the unique opportunity to manage complex, fast-paced caseloads—from public corruption and organized crime to financial fraud and border security—from the very first day. If you possess a sharp legal mind and a commitment to public service, this position provides the platform to defend the interests of the United States while honing your litigation skills in one of the busiest offices in the federal system.
Requirements for Assistant United States Attorney
- Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree or equivalent.
- Active member in good standing of the bar (any U.S. jurisdiction).
- United States citizenship.
- Ability to pass a pre-employment suitability/security background investigation, including credit, tax, and fingerprint checks.
- Successful completion of a pre-employment drug screening.
- Residency within the district or within 25 miles of the appointed location.
- Registration with the Selective Service System (if applicable).
Preferred Qualifications for Assistant United States Attorney
- Extensive courtroom experience, ideally including first-chair jury trials.
- Superior legal research and persuasive writing abilities.
- Strong organizational skills and ability to manage a high-volume caseload.
- Previous experience in criminal prosecution, defense, or investigative techniques.
- Knowledge of grand jury procedures.
- Proven ability to work collaboratively within a supportive, diverse legal team.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance plans
- ✓Life insurance coverage
- ✓Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) participation
- ✓Generous paid vacation and sick leave
- ✓Paid federal holidays
- ✓Opportunities for professional development
💡 How to Apply Assistant United States Attorney Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Assistant United States Attorney Job
- Create or log in to your account on the federal employment portal.
- Complete the required online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload a resume (strictly limited to two pages).
- Submit a persuasive writing sample (no more than 20 pages, composed within the last 3 years).
- Address a cover letter to United States Attorney Aaron F. Reitz.
- Submit all materials by 11:59 PM ET on September 30, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Adhere strictly to the two-page resume limit; exceeding this will disqualify your application.
- Highlight relevant courtroom experience, especially jury trials, to stand out.
- Apply early; the first round of consideration begins for applications submitted by September 4, 2026.
- Ensure your writing sample showcases your ability to argue complex legal issues clearly.
- If claiming veterans' preference, ensure all supporting documentation, such as the DD-214 or SF-15, is included.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of an AUSA in the Criminal Division?
Criminal Division AUSAs prosecute federal violations including organized crime, public corruption, white-collar crime, firearms offenses, and drug trafficking.
Is residency in Houston required?
Yes, AUSAs are generally required to reside within the district of their appointment or within 25 miles of it.
Are relocation expenses covered?
No, relocation expenses are not authorized for this position.