Launch Your Federal Legal Career: Assistant United States Attorney in SDTX

The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Texas (SDTX) represents one of the most critical legal hubs in the United States. Covering 43 counties, this office is at the heart of major national legal challenges, from complex narcotics prosecutions to vital border security initiatives. We are seeking a motivated, high-caliber Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) to join the Civil Division.

Job Responsibilities

As an AUSA in the Civil Division, your work will be diverse and challenging. Responsibilities include:

Litigating complex land condemnation matters related to the border fence.
Handling immigration enforcement litigation and defending asylum/passport cases.
Representing the United States in federal court on varied civil matters.
Managing all phases of litigation, from initial research to courtroom appearances.

Requirements

Education: Must hold a J.D. degree.
Bar Status: Must be an active member of any U.S. jurisdiction's bar.
Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.
Residency: Must reside within 25 miles of the assigned district office.

Feature	Requirement Detail
Resume Length	Maximum 2 Pages
Writing Sample	Max 20 Pages (Last 3 Years)
Security Clearance	Special-Sensitive (High Risk)
Drug Test	Required

Salary Overview

Compensation for AUSAs is administratively determined based on professional experience. The current pay range for this position is $76,748 to $197,100 per year, inclusive of locality pay.

Benefits

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

Application Tips

Respect the Constraints: A resume exceeding two pages results in automatic disqualification.
Persuasive Writing: Select a writing sample that highlights your analytical abilities and legal reasoning.
Early Submission: While the closing date is September 30, 2026, the office reviews applications in 21-day cycles starting September 10, 2026.

If you are a lawyer driven by a desire to perform meaningful public service, the Southern District of Texas offers an unparalleled environment to advance your career. We encourage all qualified applicants to review the requirements carefully and submit their application through the USAJOBS portal.

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

Join the front lines of federal justice: Secure, defend, and litigate on behalf of the United States in the dynamic Southern District of Texas.

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

The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Texas is seeking a dedicated Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) for its Civil Division. This high-impact role involves managing complex litigation related to land condemnation, border security, immigration enforcement, and general civil matters. Spanning 43 counties, this district offers a fast-paced environment for attorneys ready to handle significant federal caseloads immediately.

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

Possess a J.D. degree or equivalent.
Must be an active member of the bar in any U.S. jurisdiction by the entry on duty date.
U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
Must reside within the district of appointment or within 25 miles thereof.
Males born after December 31, 1959, must be registered with the Selective Service.
Must pass a comprehensive background investigation and pre-employment drug screening.

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

Strong academic performance.
Superior legal research and persuasive writing abilities.
Proven high-volume courtroom experience, preferably including first-chair jury trials.
Exceptional organizational and interpersonal skills.
Demonstrated commitment to professionalism, ethics, and public service.
Self-sufficiency in preparing legal pleadings and correspondence.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health benefits
✓Life insurance coverage
✓Paid vacation and sick leave
✓Federal holiday pay
✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)

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

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

Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
Submit a resume (strictly limited to two pages).
Include a persuasive writing sample (maximum 20 pages, written within the last three years).
Address your cover letter to U.S. Attorney Aaron F. Reitz.
Complete the mandatory occupational questionnaire online.
Submit all required documents, including veterans' preference forms if applicable, by the closing date.

💡 General Tips

The two-page limit on your resume is strictly enforced; exceeding it will disqualify your application.
Submit your application early—first-round reviews begin September 10, 2026.
Ensure all dates (month/day/year) are clearly listed for every employment entry.
Clearly document your courtroom or litigation experience in your resume.
Use the 'Application Status' link in USAJOBS to verify receipt of your documents and monitor progress.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is relocation assistance provided for this position?

No, relocation expenses are not authorized for this appointment.

What is the typical travel requirement?

Expect to travel roughly 1 to 5 nights per month.

How is the salary determined?

Pay is administratively determined based on your total years of professional attorney experience.

Is this role eligible for telework?

*A: This position is not eligible for telework.*

What is the interview process?

*A: Candidates are reviewed by an attorney panel, and those selected for interviews will be notified by the office.*

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

The Department of Justice (DOJ) serves as the primary law enforcement arm of the United States. Within the SDTX, AUSAs are entrusted with the significant responsibility of protecting the life, liberty, and property of citizens. The office fosters a culture of grit, sound judgment, and an unwavering commitment to the rule of law.