Launch Your Career: Assistant United States Attorney (Civil) in the Southern District of Texas

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas (SDTX) represents one of the most dynamic legal environments in the United States. Spanning 44,000 square miles and serving a population of 10 million, our office is at the heart of federal law enforcement and civil litigation. We are currently seeking an Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) to join our Civil Division on a term appointment.

Job Responsibilities

In this role, you will handle a complex caseload in federal court. Responsibilities include:

Litigating land condemnation cases.
Managing immigration enforcement and asylum defense.
Defending federal interests in civil matters.
Preparing legal pleadings, warrants, and motions.
Collaborating with investigative agencies.

Role Complexity Comparison

Feature	Entry-Level Attorney	AUSA (SDTX)
Caseload	Managed/Supervised	Independent/High-Volume
Courtroom Presence	Limited	Daily/Frequent
Impact	Localized	National Significance

Requirements

To be considered for this prestigious role, candidates must:

Hold a J.D. degree.
Be an active member of the bar in any U.S. jurisdiction.
Possess U.S. citizenship.
Be able to successfully pass a comprehensive background check and drug test.

Salary Overview

The salary for this position is administratively determined based on your professional experience as an attorney, ranging from $76,748 to $197,100 annually.

Benefits

Employees of the Department of Justice enjoy a competitive federal benefits package, including:

Health and Life Insurance.
Retirement contributions (FERS).
Paid sick leave and vacation time.
Federal holiday pay.

Application Tips

Format: Stick to the strict two-page resume limit.
Persuasion: Select a writing sample that demonstrates your sharpest analytical skills.
Early Action: Submit by September 04, 2026, for priority review.

Serving as an AUSA in the Southern District of Texas is more than a job—it is a commitment to the mission of justice. If you possess the grit and legal expertise required to excel in one of the busiest districts in the nation, we invite you to apply.

Why This Assistant United States Attorney - Term Civil (Border Fence) Job Matters

Make a tangible impact on the front lines of federal law. Join the Southern District of Texas as an Assistant United States Attorney and tackle the nation's most critical civil litigation challenges.

Assistant United States Attorney - Term Civil (Border Fence) Job Overview

The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Texas is seeking a dedicated legal professional for a high-stakes term position within our Civil Division. Operating as one of the busiest offices in the country, we manage a massive caseload spanning 43 counties. This role focuses on vital civil matters, including land condemnation, border-related legal issues, immigration enforcement, and defensive litigation. If you are an attorney driven by the pursuit of justice and the desire to serve the public interest, this is an unparalleled opportunity to advance your litigation career in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.

Requirements for Assistant United States Attorney - Term Civil (Border Fence)

Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
Active bar membership in any U.S. jurisdiction by the entry on duty date.
U.S. citizenship is strictly required.
Must be able to pass a rigorous background investigation and drug screening.
Must comply with district residency requirements.
Selective Service registration if applicable (for male applicants born after 1959).

Preferred Qualifications for Assistant United States Attorney - Term Civil (Border Fence)

Strong academic performance and superior legal research and writing abilities.
Proven courtroom experience, with preference given to those with first-chair jury trial history.
Ability to articulate complex legal issues with precision and accuracy.
Excellent time management and interpersonal skills for team-based litigation.
High level of technical proficiency for self-sufficient document and pleading preparation.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary structure based on experience.
✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs.
✓Life insurance coverage options.
✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
✓Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holiday schedule.

💡 How to Apply Assistant United States Attorney - Term Civil (Border Fence) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Assistant United States Attorney - Term Civil (Border Fence) Job

Create or log into a USAJOBS account.
Complete the mandatory occupational questionnaire online.
Prepare a resume (maximum of two pages) detailing all relevant employment history.
Draft a persuasive writing sample (maximum 20 pages, authored within the last three years).
Submit a cover letter addressed to United States Attorney Aaron F. Reitz.
Upload all required supporting documentation and submit the application package before the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Prioritize your application by submitting by the early consideration date of September 04, 2026.
Strictly adhere to the two-page resume limit; exceedances will disqualify your application.
Ensure your writing sample clearly demonstrates your unique analytical and persuasive style.
Verify your application status via the USAJOBS portal to confirm all attachments have cleared the virus scan.
If you qualify for Veterans' Preference, ensure all supporting documentation, such as the DD-214 or SF-15, is included.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the nature of this appointment?

This is a temporary position not-to-exceed September 30, 2029.

Can I apply if I have not yet passed the bar?

Yes, current law students or recent graduates preparing for the July 2026 bar exam may apply, provided they are active bar members by the time they enter on duty.

Is relocation assistance provided?

No, relocation expenses are not authorized for this position.

Where are these positions located?

Positions are available in Brownsville, Corpus Christi, Laredo, and McAllen.

What is the term limit?

This is a temporary appointment not-to-exceed September 30, 2029.

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

The Department of Justice (DOJ) is tasked with upholding the rule of law, protecting citizens, and representing the interests of the United States. As an AUSA within the SDTX, you will work on the front lines of critical issues, including border security, narcotics trafficking defense, and large-scale federal litigation.