Become an Assistant United States Attorney: Join the Eastern District of Texas
The U.S. Attorney's Office (USAO) for the Eastern District of Texas is offering a rare opportunity for a high-caliber legal professional to join the Appellate Division. This role is designed for an attorney who thrives on complex litigation, excels in legal research, and is committed to upholding the integrity of the federal judicial system.
Job Responsibilities
As an Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) in the Appellate Division, you will:
- Research and draft appellate briefs for criminal matters heard in the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals.
- Respond to post-conviction filings.
- Present oral arguments on complex issues involving constitutional law and statutory construction.
- Provide real-time trial assistance to AUSAs in other divisions.
- Handle cases relating to national security, immigration, and public safety.
Requirements
Applicants must meet strict federal standards, including:
- Citizenship: United States.
- Education: Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree.
- Bar Status: Active membership in good standing in any U.S. jurisdiction.
- Suitability: Successful completion of background checks, including credit, tax, and fingerprinting.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Position Type | Permanent, Full-Time |
| Agency | Department of Justice |
| Salary | $76,748 - $188,602 |
| Locations | Beaumont, Plano, Sherman, Tyler (TX) |
Salary Overview
Salary is determined administratively based on professional attorney experience and the specific duty station locality pay. The base pay structure ensures competitive compensation compared to private practice, coupled with the stability of federal benefits.
Benefits
- Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Comprehensive health, vision, and dental insurance options.
- Federal life insurance programs.
- Generous leave policies including vacation and sick time.
- Professional development opportunities.
Application Tips
- Resume Precision: Your resume must be two pages or less. This is a hard limit.
- Detail Oriented: Ensure all employment entries include the official title, exact start/end dates, and a clear list of duties.
- Supporting Documentation: Ensure all veteran or CTAP/ICTAP documentation is current and attached during the initial submission.
Serving as an AUSA in the Appellate Division is a distinguished path for any attorney committed to justice. By applying your advocacy skills at the federal level, you contribute to the stability and legal integrity of the nation. Submit your application today to start your career with the DOJ.
Why This Assistant United States Attorney (Appellate Division) Job Matters
Elevate your legal career by representing the United States in the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals—join the Eastern District of Texas as an Assistant United States Attorney.
Assistant United States Attorney (Appellate Division) Job Overview
The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of Texas is seeking a dedicated and skilled Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) for its Appellate Division. In this high-stakes role, you will perform critical legal research, draft appellate briefs, and present oral arguments before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit. You will tackle complex constitutional, statutory, and procedural issues related to national security, immigration, and public safety while serving the mission of the Department of Justice to uphold the rule of law.
Requirements for Assistant United States Attorney (Appellate Division)
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must possess a J.D. degree from an accredited law school.
- Must be an active member in good standing of the bar in any U.S. jurisdiction.
- Must pass a pre-employment suitability adjudication, including fingerprint, credit, tax checks, and drug testing.
- Must register with the Selective Service if born after December 31, 1959.
- Resume must not exceed two pages.
Preferred Qualifications for Assistant United States Attorney (Appellate Division)
- Demonstrated ability to accurately articulate critical issues in complex cases.
- Superior legal writing and research capabilities.
- Exceptional oral advocacy and courtroom presentation skills.
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams.
- Experience handling evidentiary, procedural, and sentencing issues.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs.
- ✓Life insurance coverage.
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- ✓Opportunities for professional growth and skill advancement.
- ✓Flexible work arrangements (telework) where applicable.
💡 How to Apply Assistant United States Attorney (Appellate Division) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Assistant United States Attorney (Appellate Division) Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload a resume (strictly two-page limit) and relevant transcripts.
- Submit all required documentation, including veterans' preference forms if applicable.
- Verify the status of your application via the USAJOBS dashboard.
- Monitor email for interview invitations and follow-up communications.
💡 General Tips
- Adhere strictly to the two-page resume limit; exceeding this will result in disqualification.
- Include specific dates (month, day, year) for all previous employment history.
- Highlight specific, complex legal matters and outcomes in your resume to demonstrate appellate capability.
- Submit your application early to account for potential technical issues or file upload processing times.
- Clearly denote veterans' preference status if you are claiming it to ensure proper consideration.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the salary range for this position?
The salary ranges from $76,748 to $188,602 annually, depending on your experience level and the specific office location (Beaumont, Tyler, Plano, or Sherman).
Is residency required?
Yes, Assistant United States Attorneys are generally required to reside within the district to which they are appointed or within 25 miles of the district.
Does this role offer relocation assistance?
No, relocation expenses are not authorized for this position.
Can I apply if I haven't passed the bar yet?
No, you must be an active member in good standing of the bar at the time of your application.
Is travel required?
Yes, occasional travel is expected for this role.
Job from Executive Office For U.S. Attorneys And The Office Of The U.S. Attorneys
The Department of Justice (DOJ) serves as the backbone of federal law enforcement, committed to protecting civil rights, public safety, and national interests. The Eastern District of Texas, which includes offices in Beaumont, Lufkin, Plano, Sherman, Texarkana, and Tyler, represents the people of the United States with a focus on fairness, integrity, and ethical excellence.