Launch Your Federal Legal Career in Newport News

Are you looking to transition into a meaningful career that makes a difference in the lives of citizens? The United States Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of Virginia (EDVA) is currently seeking a talented and dedicated Legal Assistant (Office Automation) to join our team in Newport News.

Role Overview

As a Legal Assistant, you will provide critical administrative and litigation support to Assistant United States Attorneys. Your daily work will directly contribute to the preparation of complex cases, from white-collar crime and public corruption to human trafficking and national security offenses.

Comparison of Potential Responsibilities

Task Area	Key Activities
Trial Support	Preparing exhibits, indexing evidence, and assembling trial notebooks.
Documentation	Processing complaints, motions, subpoenas, and pleadings.
Administration	Managing calendars, travel itineraries, and office records.

Requirements and Qualifications

To be considered for this GS-7 position, candidates must demonstrate one year of specialized experience at the GS-6 level. Key requirements include:

Technical Proficiency: Ability to type at least 40 WPM.
Security Clearance: Must pass a high-risk background investigation for a Top Secret clearance.
Competency: Success in the USA Hire Competency Based Assessment.

Benefits

Working for the federal government provides a robust compensation package, including health benefits, life insurance, and access to the Federal Employees Retirement System. We also offer generous leave policies and flexibility regarding telework.

Application Tips

Respect the Limits: Your resume cannot exceed two pages. Overly long resumes will result in automatic disqualification.
Detailed History: Include dates (month/day/year) for all experience.
Assessments: Set aside 3 hours of quiet time for the online assessment.

If you are ready to apply your skills in a high-stakes, rewarding environment, this is your opportunity. Review the requirements carefully, prepare your documentation, and submit your application to join the team at the EDVA today.

Why This Legal Assistant (Office Automation) Job Matters

Launch your federal career in Newport News! Join the Department of Justice and play a vital role in upholding the law as a Legal Assistant.

Legal Assistant (Office Automation) Job Overview

The Department of Justice, specifically the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of Virginia, is seeking a detail-oriented Legal Assistant (Office Automation) to support our legal team in Newport News. This position is essential to the successful administration of justice, involving case management, trial preparation, and technical document processing. You will work alongside a dedicated team of professionals committed to protecting public safety and federal interests.

Requirements for Legal Assistant (Office Automation)

U.S. Citizenship or National.
One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-6 level.
Typing speed of at least 40 words per minute (3 or fewer errors).
Must pass a pre-employment drug test.
Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.
Completion of an online assessment (USA Hire Competency Based Assessment).
Registration with the Selective Service (if applicable).

Preferred Qualifications for Legal Assistant (Office Automation)

Proficiency with legal research databases and office automation software.
Experience in trial preparation, including exhibit assembly and index creation.
Demonstrated ability to handle confidential legal documents with high attention to detail.
Strong organizational skills and ability to manage complex litigation calendars.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive health benefits
✓Life insurance
✓Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays
✓Telework options
✓Potential for relocation incentives

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

Application Steps for Legal Assistant (Office Automation) Job

Submit your resume and complete the online application via USAJOBS.
Complete the mandatory online assessment (USA Hire).
Attach all required documents, including SF-50 (if federal) and DD-214 (if veteran).
Monitor your status through your USAJOBS account.
Respond to any follow-up emails regarding eligibility or assessment instructions.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume does not exceed two pages; longer resumes will be disqualified.
Clearly document your hours worked per week for all previous positions.
Give yourself at least 3 hours to complete the online assessment.
If you require a reasonable accommodation for the assessment, request it before beginning the test.
Double-check that all required documentation is uploaded before the closing date.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the salary range for this position?

The salary for this GS-7 position ranges from $51,210 to $66,574 per year.

Is a typing test required?

You must be able to type at least 40 words per minute. A formal typing test may be requested as part of the selection process.

Can I telework in this role?

Yes, this position is eligible for telework, subject to agency policy.

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 our nation’s legal system. The Eastern District of Virginia is one of the most prominent districts in the country, litigating civil and criminal matters that have a profound impact on national security, public integrity, and public safety. Joining our team means becoming part of a prestigious workforce of over 100,000 individuals committed to preserving constitutional freedoms.