Launch Your Career as an Assistant United States Attorney
Are you a seasoned litigator looking to transition into a role that serves the public good? The U.S. Attorney's Office (USAO) for the Central District of California is currently accepting applications for the position of Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) in our Santa Ana branch. This is a prestigious opportunity to represent the interests of the United States in federal court while tackling some of the most complex legal challenges of our time.
Job Responsibilities
Civil Division AUSAs act as the primary representatives of the United States in both trial and appellate capacities. You will be responsible for a varied caseload spanning:
- Complex and Defensive Litigation
- Civil Fraud cases
- Civil Rights enforcement
- Tax and Bankruptcy litigation
- Civil Appeals
You will manage all stages of litigation, including conducting depositions, handling court hearings, negotiating settlements, and drafting motions. As you progress, your responsibilities will grow in complexity, offering a dynamic environment that rewards those who are solution-oriented and possess impeccable professional judgment.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet the following criteria:
- Education: A Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree.
- Bar Membership: Active standing in any U.S. jurisdiction; candidates must pass the California Bar exam after selection.
- Citizenship: You must be a United States citizen.
- Security: Ability to pass a high-risk, special-sensitive background investigation, including drug testing.
Salary Overview
The federal government uses an administratively determined (AD) pay scale based on years of practice. Here is how your experience typically maps to the pay grade:
| Experience Level | Grade Level |
|---|---|
| 0-2 Years | AD-21 |
| 3-4 Years | AD-23 |
| 5 Years | AD-25 |
| 6 Years | AD-26 |
| 7 Years | AD-27 |
| 8 Years | AD-28 |
| 9+ Years | AD-29 |
The salary range for this position is $114,525 to $197,100 per year.
Benefits
As a federal employee, you gain access to a world-class benefits package:
- Full health, life, and dental insurance options.
- Enrollment in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- Professional development and telework opportunities.
Application Tips
- Respect the Limits: Your resume cannot exceed two pages. Adhere to this, or your application will be automatically rejected.
- Documentation: Have your writing sample, transcripts, and two references ready before you begin.
- Follow-up: Check your application status regularly through your USAJOBS account portal.
Joining the U.S. Attorney's Office is a significant career milestone for any legal professional. Whether you are driven by a commitment to public service or a desire for high-level trial experience, this role offers a path to do meaningful, lasting work. We encourage all qualified individuals—including veterans and those with disabilities—to review the requirements and submit their applications today.
Why This Assistant United States Attorney Job Matters
Step into a pivotal role as an Assistant United States Attorney and shape the future of justice in California's Central District.
Assistant United States Attorney Job Overview
The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Central District of California is seeking motivated, highly skilled legal professionals to join our esteemed Civil Division. As an AUSA, you will serve as a primary litigator for the federal government, managing a diverse and complex caseload across various sections including Civil Fraud, Civil Rights, Tax, Bankruptcy, and Appellate litigation. This is a unique opportunity to serve the public interest while tackling challenging legal issues that impact millions.
Requirements for Assistant United States Attorney
- Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school
- Active member of the bar in any U.S. jurisdiction
- Must obtain and maintain California bar membership
- United States citizenship
- Successful completion of a rigorous background investigation including drug testing, credit, and tax checks
Preferred Qualifications for Assistant United States Attorney
- Significant experience in civil litigation
- Superior academic performance
- Exceptional legal research and writing abilities
- Demonstrated commitment to public service
- Strong oral advocacy skills and courtroom experience
- Existing ties to the Central District of California
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Comprehensive federal health insurance options
- âś“Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
- âś“Generous paid vacation and sick leave accrual
- âś“Federal holiday observances
- âś“Life insurance programs
- âś“Potential for recruitment bonuses
- âś“Relocation expense assistance for eligible candidates
đź’ˇ How to Apply Assistant United States Attorney Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Assistant United States Attorney Job
- Create or sign into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume not exceeding two pages, following federal formatting guidelines.
- Compile supporting documents: transcripts, cover letter, writing sample, and two references.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire via the online application portal.
- Submit your full application package before the closing date.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS portal.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit; exceeding this will disqualify your application.
- Highlight specific, quantifiable achievements in your previous legal roles.
- Clearly indicate your veteran preference status if applicable and attach required forms like the DD-214.
- Start the application early to allow time for the system's virus scanning process for uploaded files.
- Review your application for accuracy before submitting, as incomplete packages will not be considered.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical salary range for an AUSA?
Salaries for AUSAs are determined by administrative grade (AD), ranging from $114,525 to $197,100 per year, depending on years of experience as a licensed attorney.
Is residency in the district required?
Yes, generally, Assistant United States Attorneys must reside within the district to which they are appointed or within 25 miles of the district boundary.
What happens if I am not currently a member of the California Bar?
You are eligible to apply if you are a member of any U.S. bar; however, you will be required to take and pass the California bar exam upon being hired.
Job from Executive Office For U.S. Attorneys And The Office Of The U.S. Attorneys
The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Central District of California stands as one of the most significant legal offices in the nation. Serving a population of nearly 20 million people across seven counties, we enforce federal law and defend the government's interests through our Criminal, National Security, and Civil divisions. Our mission is to protect life, liberty, and the property of citizens while upholding the rule of law.