Become an Assistant United States Attorney in Austin
Are you a litigator with a passion for public service? The Department of Justice is currently seeking a motivated and experienced attorney to join the United States Attorney's Office for the Western District of Texas in Austin. This role is a unique opportunity to represent the interests of the United States in complex civil litigation and investigations.
Position Overview
As an Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) in the Affirmative Civil Enforcement (ACE) unit, you will handle a diverse and high-impact caseload. You will work closely with federal agencies to address fraud and misconduct, protecting the economic and physical safety of American citizens.
Core Responsibilities
- Representing the U.S. government in civil litigation within the Western District of Texas.
- Litigating cases at both trial and appellate levels, including before the Fifth Circuit.
- Conducting investigations into False Claims Act violations and healthcare fraud.
- Drafting legal memoranda, conducting discovery, and managing depositions.
- Collaborating with criminal AUSAs and law enforcement partners.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, you must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: You must be a United States citizen.
- Education: A Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree is required.
- Bar Admission: You must be an active member of the bar in any U.S. jurisdiction.
- Experience: At least one year of post-J.D. legal experience is required.
- Background: Must be able to pass a background check and drug screen.
Salary and Benefits Comparison
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $78,905 - $197,100 per year |
| Location | Austin, Texas |
| Schedule | Full-time |
| Security Clearance | Secret (Critical-Sensitive) |
Application Tips
Your application package must be complete to receive consideration. The most common pitfall for applicants is exceeding the two-page resume limit—please ensure your document is concise. Additionally, always include specific dates of employment, including the day, month, and year. If you qualify for veterans' preference, ensure you submit all required supporting documents such as your DD-214.
Serving as an Assistant United States Attorney is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the rule of law. If you meet the qualifications and are prepared for a challenging, rewarding career in the heart of Texas, we encourage you to submit your application by October 30, 2026.
Why This Assistant United States Attorney (Affirmative Civil Enforcement - Ace) Job Matters
Shape the future of justice as an Assistant United States Attorney. Join the Affirmative Civil Enforcement unit in the Western District of Texas and defend the interests of the nation.
Assistant United States Attorney (Affirmative Civil Enforcement - Ace) Job Overview
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Texas is seeking a dedicated legal professional to serve as an Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) within the Affirmative Civil Enforcement (ACE) division. This role involves complex litigation, high-stakes investigations, and the defense of federal interests across a diverse array of legal challenges, including False Claims Act cases and health care fraud. If you are an experienced attorney passionate about upholding the rule of law and public service, this position offers the opportunity to work at the forefront of federal litigation.
Requirements for Assistant United States Attorney (Affirmative Civil Enforcement - Ace)
- Must be a U.S. Citizen
- Hold a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree
- Current active member of the bar in any U.S. jurisdiction
- Minimum of 1 year of post-J.D. legal or relevant professional experience
- Must pass a comprehensive background investigation and drug test
- Must reside within the district or within 25 miles of the appointment location
- Male applicants born after 1959 must be registered with the Selective Service
Preferred Qualifications for Assistant United States Attorney (Affirmative Civil Enforcement - Ace)
- Strong academic performance
- Superior legal research and drafting skills
- Demonstrated analytical and organizational capabilities
- Experience with courtroom proceedings and litigation
- Strong commitment to ethics, professionalism, and public service
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance plans
- ✓Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) participation
- ✓Generous paid vacation and sick leave
- ✓Paid federal holidays
- ✓Life insurance options
- ✓Professional development and training opportunities
💡 How to Apply Assistant United States Attorney (Affirmative Civil Enforcement - Ace) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Assistant United States Attorney (Affirmative Civil Enforcement - Ace) Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS profile
- Complete the occupational questionnaire within the application portal
- Upload a resume (strictly limited to two pages)
- Draft and attach a cover letter
- Submit your application package by the closing date of October 30, 2026
- Monitor application status via the USAJOBS dashboard
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume is exactly two pages or fewer to avoid immediate disqualification.
- Include specific start/end dates (month/day/year) for all employment entries.
- Detail your legal duties and achievements for each position listed.
- If claiming veterans' preference, submit the required documentation like your DD-214.
- Apply early to allow time for your documents to clear the system virus scan.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of the ACE unit?
The Affirmative Civil Enforcement unit represents the U.S. government in civil cases involving fraud against the federal government, such as False Claims Act matters, healthcare fraud, and other economic welfare law violations.
Is residency required?
Yes, AUSAs generally must reside in the district of appointment or within 25 miles thereof.
What is the security clearance level for this role?
This position is designated as Secret and is classified as Critical-Sensitive.
Can non-citizens apply?
Generally, only U.S. citizens are eligible for employment with the DOJ, with very narrow exceptions.
Is there relocation assistance?
No, relocation expenses are not authorized for this position.
Can I work remotely?
No, this position is not eligible for telework or remote status.
Job from Executive Office For U.S. Attorneys And The Office Of The U.S. Attorneys
The Department of Justice (DOJ) is tasked with enforcing the law, defending the interests of the United States, and ensuring the impartial administration of justice. The Western District of Texas is a critical hub, covering 93,000 square miles and over 660 miles of the U.S.-Mexico border. Joining this office means stepping onto the front lines of federal law enforcement and civil protection.