Launch Your Legal Career with the Department of Justice: Assistant United States Attorney (Civil) Role
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of New York is currently seeking a highly motivated and skilled legal professional to join the Civil Division. This term-limited position offers a unique, high-stakes environment where you will represent the Federal Government, defend the interests of the United States, and uphold the highest standards of justice. If you are an attorney looking to take the next step in your career with a prestigious institution, this is an exceptional opportunity.
Job Responsibilities
As an Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) in the Civil Division, your primary mission is to represent the federal government and its employees in complex litigation. Your duties will evolve as your experience grows, but they typically include:
- Defending civil actions regarding torts, employment discrimination, and immigration.
- Conducting legal research and writing motions.
- Taking depositions and managing discovery.
- Engaging in settlement negotiations.
- Managing cases at both trial and appellate levels.
Comparison: Private Practice vs. DOJ AUSA Role
| Feature | Private Practice | DOJ AUSA Role |
|---|---|---|
| Client | Corporate/Individual | United States Government |
| Mission | Profit/Client Advocacy | Public Service/Rule of Law |
| Litigation Focus | Negotiated/Commercial | Constitutional/Federal Statutory |
| Career Growth | Partnership Path | Professional Development/Policy |
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Education: Possess a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree.
- Licensure: Be an active member of the bar in any U.S. jurisdiction.
- Experience: A minimum of one year of post-J.D. legal or relevant professional experience.
Salary Overview
The compensation for this role is administratively determined based on your professional attorney experience. The pay scale ranges from $65,563 to $171,487 per year, plus applicable locality pay adjustments.
Benefits
Employees of the Department of Justice enjoy a competitive federal benefits package, which includes:
- Health and life insurance.
- Paid time off, including vacation and sick leave.
- Federal pension participation (FERS).
- Telework opportunities and work-life balance initiatives.
Application Tips
- Mind the Limit: Your resume must be two pages or less. Submissions exceeding this limit are automatically rejected.
- Be Thorough: Clearly explain your duties and accomplishments in each past position.
- Check Often: Use the USAJOBS portal to track your application status after submission.
Serving as an Assistant United States Attorney is more than just a job; it is a commitment to public service and the integrity of the judicial system. If you are ready to handle significant federal cases and work with a world-class legal team, submit your application to the Western District of New York today.
Why This Assistant United States Attorney (Civil) - Term Job Matters
Launch a high-impact legal career with the Department of Justice as an Assistant United States Attorney in the Western District of New York.
Assistant United States Attorney (Civil) - Term Job Overview
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of New York is seeking a dedicated and experienced legal professional to serve as an Assistant United States Attorney (Civil) in a term-limited role. This position offers the unique opportunity to represent the Federal Government in diverse civil litigation matters, ranging from employment discrimination to constitutional torts. Based in Buffalo, you will work alongside seasoned professionals to uphold the rule of law and protect the interests of the United States. This role is currently open through September 2029, with potential for extension or permanent transition.
Requirements for Assistant United States Attorney (Civil) - Term
- U.S. Citizenship is strictly required.
- Must possess a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree.
- Must be an active member in good standing of the bar of any U.S. jurisdiction.
- At least one year of post-J.D. legal or relevant professional experience.
- Must be able to successfully complete a comprehensive background investigation and drug screening.
- Males born after December 31, 1959, must be registered with the Selective Service System.
Preferred Qualifications for Assistant United States Attorney (Civil) - Term
- Proven experience in civil litigation practice.
- Superior analytical, research, and writing skills.
- Strong interpersonal communication and the ability to collaborate with federal agencies and judicial staff.
- Capacity to work independently and manage complex caseloads in a fast-paced, demanding environment.
- High level of computer literacy, including electronic filing systems and automated legal research tools.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options.
- ✓Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Life insurance coverage options.
- ✓Structured professional development and training opportunities.
💡 How to Apply Assistant United States Attorney (Civil) - Term Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Assistant United States Attorney (Civil) - Term Job
- Prepare a resume not exceeding two pages, detailing your full employment history.
- Visit the USAJOBS portal to log in or create an account.
- Complete the mandatory online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your resume and any required documentation, such as Veterans' Preference evidence, before the deadline.
- Confirm the submission status through your USAJOBS account dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit; exceeding this will result in automatic disqualification.
- Clearly document all relevant experience, including dates, hours worked per week, and a thorough list of duties.
- Check your application status frequently on the USAJOBS portal to ensure all documents have successfully passed the virus scan.
- Highlight any Veterans' Preference eligibility in both the questionnaire and your cover letter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position permanent?
This is a term appointment not to exceed September 30, 2029. However, it may be extended or converted to a permanent position without further competition.
What is the typical residency requirement?
Assistant United States Attorneys are generally required to reside within the district to which they are appointed or within 25 miles thereof.
Can I request a reasonable accommodation?
Yes, the agency provides reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. Please notify the point of contact listed if you require assistance during the process.
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 and litigation in the United States. The Western District of New York covers 17 counties, with offices located in Buffalo and Rochester. The office is responsible for prosecuting federal criminal violations and representing federal agencies in civil matters. Working here means joining a team dedicated to integrity, efficiency, and the protection of civil rights.