Become the Appellate Chief: Lead Federal Litigation in Sacramento
The United States Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of California is looking for an elite legal professional to join their leadership team as an Appellate Chief. This role offers an unparalleled opportunity to guide the government’s stance on complex criminal and civil appeals, mentor a talented team of litigators, and influence federal policy from within the Department of Justice.
Job Responsibilities
As the Appellate Chief, your influence will span the entire district. Key responsibilities include:
- Supervisory Leadership: Managing a team of litigators and editing all briefs prepared for the Ninth Circuit.
- Litigation Strategy: Partnering directly with the U.S. Attorney to craft arguments on constitutional challenges, sentencing guidelines, and statutory interpretations.
- Mentorship: Organizing moot courts and providing critical feedback on oral advocacy and trial-level strategy.
- Operational Oversight: Managing appeal recommendations to Main Justice and ensuring the office meets its high standards of advocacy.
Requirements
To be considered for this high-stakes role, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Education: Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree.
- Licensure: Active bar membership in good standing.
- Experience: At least two years of post-J.D. legal practice.
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Compliance: Successfully pass a comprehensive background investigation and drug screening.
Comparison Table: Why This Role?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Position Type | Supervisory, Temporary (4 years) |
| Compensation | $197,100 (Max Cap) |
| Location | Sacramento, CA |
| Focus Area | Ninth Circuit Appellate Litigation |
| Security Level | High Risk (Special Sensitive) |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary of $197,100 per year. In addition to financial compensation, the Department of Justice provides an industry-leading benefits package, including:
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
- Federal pension eligibility (FERS).
- Generous paid time off (annual and sick leave).
- Flexible work arrangements including telework options.
Application Tips
- Watch the Length: Your resume cannot exceed two pages. This is a non-negotiable requirement.
- Be Detailed: Clearly list your hours for part-time work and ensure all employment dates include the month, day, and year.
- Clarify Veterans' Preference: Ensure all supporting documents (like your DD-214 or SF-15) are attached if you are claiming preference.
If you are a seasoned litigator looking to advance your career while making a tangible difference in the federal justice system, this role is for you. Submit your application today to join a team dedicated to upholding the constitution and protecting the citizens of the United States.
Why This Appellate Chief Job Matters
Shape federal jurisprudence in the heart of California—lead appellate litigation strategy for the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Eastern District of California.
Appellate Chief Job Overview
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of California is seeking a seasoned legal professional to serve as Appellate Chief. In this pivotal supervisory role, you will oversee and personally manage complex criminal and civil appeals before the Ninth Circuit. This is a temporary, at-will supervisory position located in vibrant Sacramento, providing a unique opportunity to shape litigation strategy, mentor staff, and influence the development of federal law at the highest levels.
Requirements for Appellate Chief
- Possess a J.D. degree or equivalent from an accredited institution.
- Maintain active bar membership in good standing in any U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia.
- Minimum of 2 years of post-J.D. legal experience.
- United States citizenship is strictly required.
- Must pass a drug screening and successfully complete a high-risk security/suitability background investigation.
- Ability to provide a high-quality writing sample and a maximum two-page resume.
Preferred Qualifications for Appellate Chief
- Previous experience with the Department of Justice.
- Substantial experience litigating criminal cases in federal court, ideally as an AUSA.
- Demonstrated history of appellate advocacy and oral arguments before a federal court of appeals.
- Experience with federal judicial clerkships.
- Exceptional ability to produce clear, concise, and persuasive legal writing under tight deadlines.
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively in a high-pressure, fast-paced environment.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with locality adjustment.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options.
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- ✓Access to life insurance programs.
- ✓Professional development and potential for long-term career advancement.
💡 How to Apply Appellate Chief Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Appellate Chief Job
- Create or log into your account on the official federal hiring portal.
- Complete the mandatory online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload a formal cover letter and a writing sample.
- Submit a resume not exceeding two pages, detailing your specific duties, hours worked, and accomplishments.
- Submit your complete application package before the closing date of September 30, 2026.
- Monitor your status through the online portal to ensure all documents have cleared the required virus scans.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit; submissions exceeding this length will result in automatic disqualification.
- Be precise with dates (month, day, and year) regarding your employment history to receive full credit.
- Highlight appellate-specific accomplishments early in your resume to demonstrate your core competency for this role.
- Apply early to be considered during the initial referral window.
- If you are a veteran, clearly indicate your eligibility and attach the required SF-15 or other supporting documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a permanent position?
This is a temporary, at-will, not-to-exceed 4-year appointment, though it may be extended or converted to a permanent AUSA role.
What is the primary focus of the Appellate Chief?
The Chief supervises criminal and civil appellate matters before the Ninth Circuit, develops litigation strategy, and provides high-level guidance to staff attorneys.
Job from Executive Office For U.S. Attorneys And The Office Of The U.S. Attorneys
The Department of Justice (DOJ) serves as the frontline of federal legal defense, protecting civil rights and upholding the rule of law across the nation. The Eastern District of California covers a vast and diverse region. Working out of the Sacramento office, you will be situated in a culturally rich environment with access to world-class outdoor recreation, from the slopes of the Sierra Nevada to the serene waters of Lake Natoma.