Launch Your Career as an Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) in D.C.

Are you a legal professional with a passion for justice and a desire to work at the highest levels of the American legal system? The U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Columbia is currently accepting applications for Assistant United States Attorneys (AUSAs). This is a unique opportunity to serve both as a federal and local prosecutor in the nation’s capital, tackling some of the most critical criminal and civil matters in the country.

Job Responsibilities

As an AUSA in the Superior Court Division, you will manage a heavy docket involving both felony and misdemeanor cases. Your daily tasks will include:

Prosecuting complex criminal cases including homicides, sexual assaults, and weapons charges.
Conducting legal and factual analysis for trials and motions.
Collaborating with investigative agencies, witnesses, and victims.
Advancing through a structured four-year professional development program.

Requirements

To be considered for this role, you must meet the following criteria:

Possession of a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree.
Active membership in the bar of any U.S. jurisdiction.
U.S. Citizenship.
Ability to clear a high-risk security background check.

Salary and Comparison Table

Compensation is determined by years of experience and follows the Administratively Determined (AD) pay scale.

Feature	Details
Salary Range	$87,815 - $197,100
Grade Level	AD-21
Location	Washington, D.C.
Closing Date	Feb 28, 2027

Benefits

Employees enjoy a robust federal benefits package including:

Competitive health insurance.
Federal pension plans (FERS).
Paid vacation and sick leave.
Flexible scheduling and telework potential.

Application Tips

Watch the Resume Length: Do not exceed two pages; longer resumes are automatically disqualified.
Quality Writing Samples: Submit a brief or memorandum that highlights your analytical rigor.
Monthly Reviews: Applications are pulled on the 1st of every month; submitting your application before these dates can speed up your consideration.

Serving as an AUSA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the public good. If you possess the advocacy skills and dedication required, apply today to join the Department of Justice.

Why This Assistant United States Attorney (Ausa) - Open Continuous Job Matters

Serve the nation's capital at the front lines of justice. Join the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Columbia as an Assistant United States Attorney.

Assistant United States Attorney (Ausa) - Open Continuous Job Overview

The U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Columbia serves a unique dual role as both the federal and local prosecutor for the nation's capital. This position offers an unparalleled opportunity for legal professionals to handle a high-volume docket, ranging from misdemeanors to complex felony cases such as homicides, robberies, and weapon offenses, while serving the public interest in the heart of Washington, D.C.

Requirements for Assistant United States Attorney (Ausa) - Open Continuous

Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
Active member in good standing of the bar of any U.S. jurisdiction.
Must be a United States Citizen.
Ability to pass a rigorous background investigation and drug test.
Submission of a compliant two-page resume and a writing sample under 15 pages.

Preferred Qualifications for Assistant United States Attorney (Ausa) - Open Continuous

Prior litigation experience.
A law school GPA of 3.0 or higher.
Demonstrated ability to function effectively with minimal guidance.
Advanced legal research and persuasive writing capabilities.
Proven history of successful ethical legal analysis.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive health insurance options.
✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
✓Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
✓Flexible work schedules and telework opportunities.
✓Transit subsidy for commuting.
✓On-site fitness and weight training facilities.
✓Life insurance coverage.

💡 How to Apply Assistant United States Attorney (Ausa) - Open Continuous Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Assistant United States Attorney (Ausa) - Open Continuous Job

Create a profile and upload your resume on USAJOBS.
Complete the required online occupational questionnaire.
Prepare your supporting documents, including your cover letter, J.D. transcripts, and a writing sample.
Submit your full application package before the deadline.
Monitor your status through the USAJOBS dashboard.

💡 General Tips

Strictly follow the two-page limit for your resume; exceeding this will result in immediate disqualification.
Ensure your writing sample is substantive and reflects your own original work.
Clearly outline your litigation experience in your duties section.
If you are a veteran, include your SF-15 and supporting documents to be considered for preference.
Apply early to be included in the monthly candidate review cycles.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the salary range for this position?

The salary is administratively determined based on experience, ranging from $87,815 to $197,100, including locality pay.

Is this a remote position?

No, this position is located in Washington, D.C., and requires on-site presence, though some flexible work arrangements may be available.

What happens after I apply?

Applications are reviewed monthly. Qualified candidates are invited to an interview panel. If selected, a background investigation and drug test follow.

Job from Executive Office For U.S. Attorneys And The Office Of The U.S. Attorneys

The Department of Justice (DOJ) is dedicated to upholding the rule of law and protecting the civil rights of all Americans. The D.C. U.S. Attorney's Office is one of the most prominent in the nation. Located near the Capital One Arena and Smithsonian museums, the office offers a world-class work environment, including on-site fitness facilities and transit subsidies.