Launch Your Legal Career as an Assistant United States Attorney
Are you a recent law school graduate with a passion for justice and a desire to work in the heart of federal law enforcement? The United States Attorney’s Office (USAO) for the Western District of Texas is currently accepting applications for the position of Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA). This is a rare, high-stakes opportunity to serve on the front lines of the federal criminal justice system.
Job Responsibilities
As an AUSA in the Criminal Division, you will not simply observe the legal process—you will drive it. Your daily responsibilities will include:
- Investigation: Collaborating with federal agents to develop and refine investigative strategies.
- Litigation: Managing complex criminal cases from the initial filing through trial and sentencing.
- Prosecution: Focusing on high-priority federal crimes, including drug trafficking, human smuggling, firearms violations, and organized crime.
As you gain experience, your caseload will scale in complexity, offering a steep and rewarding learning curve.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, applicants must meet specific federal criteria:
- Education: A J.D. degree from an accredited law school, obtained within the last 8 months or expected to be completed by June 1, 2027.
- Academic Standing: You must be ranked in the top 1/3 of your law school class.
- Licensing: Active membership in a state bar is required by your entry-on-duty date. If you are awaiting results, you may qualify as a Law Clerk.
- Citizenship: You must be a U.S. Citizen.
Salary and Benefits Comparison
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $76,748 - $103,609 (Base) |
| Locations | Alpine, Del Rio, El Paso, Midland, TX |
| Schedule | Full-Time, Permanent |
| Security | Secret/High-Risk |
Benefits Overview
Joining the Department of Justice provides you with a robust benefits package that balances competitive pay with long-term stability:
- Retirement: Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Health: Access to comprehensive government health and life insurance programs.
- Work-Life Balance: Generous accrual of paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
Application Tips
- Be Precise with Your Resume: The most common mistake is exceeding the two-page limit. Adhere strictly to the formatting guidelines on USAJOBS.
- Rank Your Locations: Clearly indicate your office preferences in your cover letter. If you are not willing to relocate to a specific city, do not list it.
- Highlight Accomplishments: Use your two pages to showcase your legal clinics, moot court experience, or any volunteer work that demonstrates your advocacy skills.
This position offers an unparalleled foundation for any aspiring litigator. By joining the Western District of Texas, you are dedicating your career to the rule of law and the protection of citizens. If you possess the drive, the academic record, and the commitment to justice, we encourage you to submit your application package before the October 30, 2026 deadline.
Why This Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal) Job Matters
Launch your legal career on the front lines of federal justice. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Texas is seeking ambitious recent law school graduates for Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal) roles.
Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal) Job Overview
The U.S. Attorney’s Office (USAO) for the Western District of Texas represents the federal government in the pursuit of justice across a vast 93,000-square-mile jurisdiction. This entry-level AUSA role offers the unique opportunity to manage complex federal criminal caseloads, including matters involving transnational crime, human trafficking, and drug smuggling. You will work alongside experienced prosecutors in one of the most active federal districts in the nation, contributing to the safety and security of the U.S.-Mexico border.
Requirements for Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal)
- U.S. Citizenship
- J.D. degree from an accredited law school obtained within the last 8 months, or scheduled to graduate by June 1, 2027
- Ranked in the top 1/3 of law school class
- Must be an active member of the bar in any U.S. jurisdiction by the entry-on-duty date, or willing to work as a Law Clerk while awaiting bar results
- Must pass a pre-employment background investigation including credit, tax, and drug testing
Preferred Qualifications for Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal)
- Strong academic performance
- Superior legal research and writing abilities
- Demonstrated analytical and courtroom skills
- Outstanding organizational and judgment capabilities
- Commitment to public service, ethics, and professional civility
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) participation
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance plans
- ✓Life insurance options
- ✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays
- ✓Professional development and training opportunities
💡 How to Apply Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal) Job
- Log in or create an account on the USAJOBS portal.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Prepare a cover letter ranking your preferred office locations (Alpine, Del Rio, El Paso, Midland).
- Upload a resume (strictly limited to two pages) and any supporting documents like law school transcripts or veterans' preference paperwork.
- Submit your complete application package before the deadline.
- Monitor your status via the application tracker on the official website.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume does not exceed the two-page limit, as longer resumes will result in automatic disqualification.
- Clearly state your preferred locations in your cover letter and rank them by preference.
- Include your class rank in your cover letter to confirm eligibility.
- Check your documents for completeness; missing documentation will prevent you from moving forward in the review process.
- Submit early to account for potential technical issues or extended file processing times.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply if I haven't passed the bar exam yet?
Yes. If selected, you may be appointed as a Law Clerk until you pass the bar. You must achieve active membership in a U.S. bar within 14 months of your entry-on-duty date.
Are there residency requirements for this position?
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 border.
What happens after I submit my application?
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. If selected, you will be contacted for an interview. Final job offers are contingent upon a thorough background investigation, including credit and tax checks.
What if I have not taken the bar exam yet?
You can still apply! You may be hired as a Law Clerk and transition to an AUSA once you pass the bar and gain active membership.
Is relocation assistance offered?
Relocation expenses are not standard, though recruitment incentives may be discussed based on individual qualifications.
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 federal agency dedicated to enforcing the law and defending the interests of the United States. Within the Western District of Texas, the office manages one of the most significant and geographically diverse jurisdictions in the country. Spanning over 93,000 square miles and encompassing approximately 660 miles of the U.S.-Mexico border, the district is uniquely positioned to handle cases involving international crime, transnational cartels, and border security.