Become an Investigator for the U.S. Attorney's Office: A Career in Civil Enforcement

Are you ready to take your investigative career to the federal level? The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of California is seeking a dedicated Investigator to join their Affirmative Civil Enforcement (ACE) team. This role is a cornerstone of the Department of Justice’s mission to uphold federal law, manage civil litigation, and protect the public interest.

Job Responsibilities

As an Investigator, you will play a hands-on role in the litigation process. Your duties will be varied and complex, including:

Conducting systematic investigations into complex civil and administrative violations.
Serving as a subject matter expert for other investigative agencies.
Collaborating with attorneys to identify statutory violations and build compelling evidence.
Analyzing financial data, including ledgers, invoices, and payroll records.
Conducting witness interviews and managing surveillance operations.
Preparing comprehensive reports for use in court proceedings.

Comparison: Investigator vs. Standard Administrative Roles

Feature	Investigator (ACE)	Administrative Specialist
Core Focus	Evidence & Prosecution	Records & Process
Travel	Occasional	Rare
Decision Making	High/Independent	Low/Procedural
Technical Skill	Litigation Support	Office Automation

Requirements for Success

To qualify for this position, applicants must demonstrate one full year of specialized experience at the GS-12 level. Your resume must clearly outline how your past work matches the complexity required by this role. Key competencies include attention to detail, stress tolerance, and the ability to negotiate and influence outcomes.

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary range of $117,984 to $153,382 per year, commensurate with federal pay scales. Beyond the salary, the Department of Justice provides an extensive federal benefits package, including retirement planning, comprehensive health care, and generous leave policies.

How to Apply

The application process is rigorous. Ensure you submit your two-page resume and complete the online questionnaire. You may also be invited to complete the USA Hire Competency Based Assessment; set aside at least three hours to complete this step correctly and honestly.

If you are an investigator looking to leverage your skills for the federal government, the Sacramento USAO position offers the perfect blend of mission-driven work and professional growth. Submit your application today to begin your journey with the Department of Justice.

Why This Investigator (Affirmative Civil Enforcement) Job Matters

Join the Department of Justice in Sacramento and become a pivotal force in Affirmative Civil Enforcement, protecting the integrity of federal law through high-stakes investigation.

Investigator (Affirmative Civil Enforcement) Job Overview

The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of California is seeking a highly skilled Investigator to conduct complex Affirmative Civil Enforcement litigation. This role is ideal for experienced professionals capable of leading investigative teams, analyzing financial records, and collaborating with legal counsel to build robust cases. Based in the vibrant city of Sacramento, this position offers the opportunity to make a tangible impact on federal law enforcement while enjoying a high quality of life in a city known for its rich culture and outdoor recreational access.

Requirements for Investigator (Affirmative Civil Enforcement)

U.S. Citizenship.
One year of specialized experience at the GS-12 grade level or equivalent.
Must undergo and pass a drug test.
Position designated as Special-Sensitive/High Risk.
Submission of a resume not exceeding two pages.
Completion of the online assessment/questionnaire.

Preferred Qualifications for Investigator (Affirmative Civil Enforcement)

Proven track record in managing complex investigative projects.
Expertise in financial analysis (books, ledgers, billing statements).
Experience coordinating surveillance and undercover activities with interagency partners.
Advanced proficiency in litigation support and trial presentation software.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive health insurance options.
✓Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) participation.
✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
✓Life insurance coverage.
✓Access to a wide range of professional development opportunities.

💡 How to Apply Investigator (Affirmative Civil Enforcement) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Investigator (Affirmative Civil Enforcement) Job

Review the full vacancy announcement details.
Prepare a resume that strictly adheres to the two-page limit.
Submit your application through the official portal before the deadline.
Complete the required online assessment when prompted.
Ensure all supporting documents (transcripts, veterans' preference, etc.) are attached.

💡 General Tips

Your resume must clearly detail your specialized experience; if it is not documented, you will not be considered.
The two-page limit is firm; ensure you prioritize your most relevant accomplishments.
Set aside at least 3 hours to complete the online assessment in one sitting if possible.
Check your USAJOBS account frequently for status updates and email notifications regarding the assessment URL.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Affirmative Civil Enforcement (ACE)?

ACE involves using civil legal remedies to recover government funds, address fraud, and ensure compliance with federal regulations that protect taxpayer dollars.

Is telework available for this position?

Currently, this position is not listed as telework-eligible.

Do I need a security clearance?

While not explicitly labeled as requiring a specific clearance level, this position is High Risk/Special-Sensitive and requires thorough background adjudication.

Is there room for promotion?

This position is currently advertised at the GS-13 level with no promotion potential documented in this announcement.

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. The Eastern District of California is a dynamic, high-stakes environment where professionals work to preserve constitutional freedoms and protect citizens' property and liberty. Working in Sacramento provides an excellent mix of professional challenge and a high quality of life, with access to world-class arts, professional sports, and outdoor activities at nearby lakes and the Sierra Nevada mountains.