Become an Assistant United States Attorney in the Southern District of Texas

Are you looking to transition into a high-impact legal role where your work directly supports the safety and rule of law in the United States? The Department of Justice (DOJ) is seeking dedicated legal professionals to serve as Assistant United States Attorneys (AUSAs) in the Criminal Division of the Southern District of Texas (SDTX), located in Brownsville.

Job Responsibilities

As an AUSA in the Criminal Division, you will not be relegated to the background. You will take the lead on complex federal investigations and courtroom proceedings. Key responsibilities include:

Prosecuting violations related to narcotics, organized crime, and financial litigation.
Managing cases involving public corruption, firearms, and immigration.
Conducting legal research and drafting high-stakes motions and pleadings.
Coordinating with investigative agencies to build strong, ethical cases.

Requirements

To be considered for this role, you must meet the following criteria:

Must be a graduate of an accredited law school with a J.D. degree.
Must be an active member of the bar in any U.S. jurisdiction.
Must be a U.S. citizen.
Must be able to pass a rigorous background security investigation.

Comparison of Qualifications

Feature	Required	Preferred
Legal Degree	Juris Doctor (J.D.)	N/A
Bar Membership	Required by EOD	N/A
Courtroom Experience	N/A	First-chair jury trial history
Academic Standing	N/A	Strong academic credentials

Salary and Benefits

The DOJ offers a highly competitive compensation package. Salaries are determined administratively based on the candidate's years of professional experience, ranging from $76,748 to $197,100 per year. Employees also benefit from:

Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.

Application Tips

Beat the Deadline: While the application closes on September 30, 2026, first-round consideration occurs for applications submitted by August 12, 2026.
Respect the Limits: Your resume must not exceed two pages. Exceeding this limit will result in immediate disqualification.
Tailor Your Sample: Ensure your writing sample is your original work and reflects your ability to argue persuasively.

Serving as an AUSA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the fair administration of justice. If you possess the grit, judgment, and legal acumen to thrive in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment, apply today to help protect the interests of the United States.

Why This Assistant United States Attorney Job Matters

Step onto the front line of federal justice in one of the nation's most dynamic legal districts—secure your future while protecting your community.

Assistant United States Attorney Job Overview

The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Texas (SDTX) is seeking motivated Assistant United States Attorneys to join the Criminal Division in Brownsville, Texas. This is a high-stakes, fast-paced environment where you will lead complex federal investigations and prosecutions, covering critical areas such as organized crime, narcotics, public corruption, and financial fraud. If you are a dedicated attorney looking for a career that serves the public good and challenges your legal expertise, this role offers an unparalleled opportunity to make a tangible impact.

Requirements for Assistant United States Attorney

Possession of a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree or equivalent.
Active membership in the bar of any U.S. jurisdiction by the entry-on-duty date.
United States citizenship.
Registration with the Selective Service System for male applicants born after December 31, 1959.
Ability to pass a comprehensive background investigation and drug screening.
Must reside in the district or within 25 miles thereof.

Preferred Qualifications for Assistant United States Attorney

Superior legal research and writing abilities.
Quick analytical skills and the ability to articulate critical case issues.
Extensive courtroom experience, ideally including first-chair jury trials.
Strong organizational, time management, and interpersonal skills.
Proven experience working effectively within a team-oriented environment.
Demonstrated commitment to ethics, civility, and public service.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs.
✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
✓Accrued paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
✓Life insurance options.
✓Potential for telework based on agency policy.
✓Competitive salary based on years of professional experience.

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

Application Steps for Assistant United States Attorney Job

Prepare your resume (maximum two pages).
Draft a persuasive writing sample (maximum 20 pages, authored within the last three years).
Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
Submit your resume, writing sample, and cover letter addressed to U.S. Attorney Aaron F. Reitz.
Monitor your application status through the USAJOBS portal.

💡 General Tips

Submit your application early; initial consideration begins August 12, 2026.
Strictly adhere to the two-page resume limit to avoid automatic disqualification.
Clearly highlight courtroom experience and trial advocacy in your materials.
If claiming veterans' preference, ensure you attach all required documentation, such as a DD-214.
Verify that your uploaded documents have cleared the virus scan by checking your account dashboard.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical workload for an AUSA in the Southern District of Texas?

SDTX is one of the busiest offices in the nation. AUSAs handle a fast-paced, high-volume, and varied caseload involving matters from border security and narcotics to white-collar crime.

Is residency required?

Yes, Assistant United States Attorneys are generally required to reside within the district to which they are appointed or within 25 miles of the district.

How is the salary determined?

Salaries are administratively determined based on the candidate's years of professional legal experience, falling within the range of $76,748 to $197,100 per year.

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

The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Texas represents one of the most vital legal frontiers in the country. Spanning over 44,000 square miles and serving 10 million residents, the SDTX handles some of the nation's most critical caseloads. From securing the border to dismantling intricate narcotics and white-collar crime syndicates, this office is at the heart of federal law enforcement.