Launch Your Legal Career with the U.S. Attorney's Office in Albuquerque

Are you looking to make a meaningful impact while building a stable career in the federal government? The Department of Justice (DOJ) is currently recruiting for a Legal Assistant (Office Automation) to join the team in the District of New Mexico. This position offers a unique window into the federal justice system and serves as an excellent starting point for those dedicated to upholding the rule of law.

Job Responsibilities

In this role, you will be the backbone of the legal team. Your day-to-day duties will include:

Document Preparation: Drafting, proofreading, and organizing complex legal documents like motions, pleadings, and orders.
Trial Support: Compiling trial notebooks, managing exhibit lists, and assisting in the physical preparation for courtroom proceedings.
Legal Research: Conducting non-complex research into statutes, court cases, and regulations to support Assistant United States Attorneys.
Case Management: Maintaining active case calendars, scheduling interviews, and tracking critical filing deadlines.

Requirements

To be eligible, candidates must meet specific criteria regarding professional experience and technical skills:

Requirement	Description
Experience	1 year of specialized experience at the GS-5/GS-6 level (depending on the grade applied for).
Typing	Minimum 40 WPM with 3 or fewer errors.
Security	Must be able to pass a High Risk (HR) suitability assessment.
Citizenship	U.S. Citizenship is strictly required.

Salary and Benefits

The position offers a competitive salary range of $45,901 to $66,311. Beyond the salary, employees enjoy the comprehensive federal benefits package, including:

Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
Excellent health and life insurance options.
Accrual of paid vacation and sick leave.
Stable, career-oriented environment with promotion potential.

How to Apply

The application process is conducted entirely online through the USAJOBS portal. Ensure you have your two-page resume ready, along with any transcripts and supporting veteran preference documentation. Be prepared to complete a mandatory online assessment to demonstrate your general competencies.

This role is an exceptional opportunity to serve the public while honing your legal and organizational skills within the nation's premier law enforcement agency. If you are detail-oriented and prepared for the challenges of federal litigation support, we encourage you to submit your application by the August 26, 2026, deadline.

Why This Legal Assistant (Office Automation) Job Matters

Launch your career in the federal legal sector as a Legal Assistant with the Department of Justice in the vibrant city of Albuquerque.

Legal Assistant (Office Automation) Job Overview

The U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of New Mexico is seeking a dedicated and organized Legal Assistant (Office Automation) to join its team. This role provides essential support to Assistant United States Attorneys, helping ensure the effective enforcement of federal criminal and civil laws. You will assist with trial preparation, document management, and case scheduling in a fast-paced legal environment, gaining invaluable experience within the Department of Justice.

Requirements for Legal Assistant (Office Automation)

One year of specialized experience at the GS-5 level for GS-6 positions, or GS-6 level for GS-7 positions.
Proficiency in typing at least 40 words per minute with 3 or fewer errors.
Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Must pass a drug test.
Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must be registered with the Selective Service.
Must be able to obtain and maintain a High Risk (HR) security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications for Legal Assistant (Office Automation)

Experience in legal research using electronic databases.
Proven ability to manage legal calendars and scheduling for complex litigation.
Advanced proficiency in office automation software for document and report creation.
Strong interpersonal skills to interact effectively with court personnel and colleagues.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Paid vacation and sick leave
✓Federal holidays
✓Health insurance benefits
✓Life insurance coverage
✓Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) participation
✓Opportunities for professional training and career growth

💡 How to Apply Legal Assistant (Office Automation) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Legal Assistant (Office Automation) Job

Complete the online application and assessment questionnaire through USAJOBS.
Submit a two-page maximum resume detailing your experience.
Upload required documents, including transcripts and veterans' preference documentation if applicable.
Complete the USA Hire Competency Based Assessment within the designated 48-hour window if notified.
Monitor your status through the USAJOBS portal.

💡 General Tips

Your resume cannot exceed two pages; double-check the formatting requirements.
Be precise with your dates of employment, including month, day, and year for every position listed.
Set aside at least three hours to complete the USA Hire assessment when prompted.
Review your application thoroughly before the closing date; edits cannot be made once the announcement expires.
Ensure your responses to the online questionnaire align strictly with the factual details in your resume.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary role of a Legal Assistant in this office?

You will assist Assistant United States Attorneys with tasks such as preparing legal filings, conducting non-complex research, managing trial exhibits, and maintaining case calendars.

Is telework available for this position?

At this time, this position is not listed as telework-eligible.

What happens if my resume exceeds the two-page limit?

Per the announcement guidelines, resumes exceeding two pages will lead to disqualification and no further consideration.

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

The United States Attorney's Office (USAO) is the principal litigator for the federal government. Working within the District of New Mexico, you will join a team of professionals committed to protecting citizens' rights and enforcing federal law. Albuquerque provides a unique backdrop for this work, offering a high quality of life with 310 days of sunshine annually, access to diverse outdoor activities, and a vibrant cultural scene.