Launch Your Career as an Assistant United States Attorney in Nashville
Are you a dedicated legal professional with a passion for justice and public service? The United States Attorney's Office for the Middle District of Tennessee is inviting applications for the position of Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA). This role offers a unique opportunity to serve the public interest while navigating complex criminal litigation at the federal level.
Job Responsibilities
As a Criminal AUSA, your responsibilities will be both varied and demanding. You will manage a heavy caseload involving:
- Organized violent crime and narcotics trafficking
- Firearms and immigration offenses
- National security and domestic/international terrorism
- Civil rights violations and white-collar fraud
In addition to courtroom appearances, AUSAs perform exhaustive legal research, direct federal investigations, manage case development, and draft legal pleadings. You will collaborate frequently with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies to ensure effective case presentation.
Comparison of Legal Roles
| Feature | Private Sector Attorney | Assistant U.S. Attorney |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | Client Profitability | Public Interest / Justice |
| Case Nature | Varied Civil/Corporate | Complex Federal Criminal |
| Collaboration | Independent/Client-Facing | Federal/State Task Forces |
| Career Path | Firm Growth | Public Service/Advancement |
Requirements
To be considered for this competitive position, you must meet the following criteria:
- Education: A Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
- Bar Status: Must be an active member of the bar in any U.S. jurisdiction.
- Experience: At least one year of post-J.D. legal or relevant professional experience.
- Nationality: Must be a United States citizen.
- Background: Must pass a thorough security clearance process, including fingerprint, credit, and drug testing.
Salary and Benefits
Compensation for AUSAs is administratively determined based on professional experience. The salary range for this position is between $79,454 and $115,000 per year, which includes locality pay for the Nashville area.
Beyond salary, the DOJ offers a robust benefits package, including:
- Comprehensive health insurance
- Federal retirement participation (FERS)
- Paid leave (vacation and sick)
- Life insurance
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted via the official USAJOBS platform. Be sure your resume is formatted correctly and does not exceed the two-page limit. Include detailed information regarding your employment history, ensuring month/year dates are clear. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, so early submission is strongly encouraged.
Serving as an Assistant United States Attorney is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the foundational principles of the United States justice system. If you possess the drive, legal intellect, and ethical fortitude to represent the government in federal court, we encourage you to apply and contribute to the safety and security of the Middle District of Tennessee.
Why This Assistant United States Attorney Job Matters
Take the lead in federal litigation and serve justice in the heart of Tennessee—your career as an Assistant United States Attorney starts here.
Assistant United States Attorney Job Overview
The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Middle District of Tennessee is actively seeking dedicated, motivated, and experienced legal professionals to join our Criminal Division. As a federal prosecutor, you will tackle high-stakes cases, uphold the rule of law, and protect the rights and safety of the American public. This position offers a unique opportunity for attorneys to perform challenging, meaningful work that directly impacts federal criminal enforcement, ranging from white-collar fraud to national security matters.
Requirements for Assistant United States Attorney
- Possession of a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree.
- Active membership in the bar of any U.S. jurisdiction.
- Minimum of one year of post-J.D. legal or relevant professional experience.
- Must be a United States citizen.
- Successful completion of a pre-employment background investigation, including fingerprinting, credit/tax checks, and drug testing.
- Residency within the district of appointment or within 25 miles thereof.
- Selective Service registration for male applicants born after December 31, 1959.
Preferred Qualifications for Assistant United States Attorney
- Superior academic credentials and a strong track record of legal excellence.
- Extensive experience in investigating and prosecuting criminal offenses.
- Exceptional legal research, writing, and analytical skills.
- Demonstrated commitment to public service, professional ethics, and civility.
- Proficiency in computer software for independent document preparation and legal research.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance plans
- ✓Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) participation
- ✓Life insurance coverage
- ✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays
- ✓Opportunities for telework, where applicable
- ✓Competitive federal pay structure
💡 How to Apply Assistant United States Attorney Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Assistant United States Attorney Job
- Create or log into a USAJOBS account.
- Submit the required two-page resume and complete the occupational questionnaire.
- Upload supporting documentation, including bar membership verification.
- Monitor application status via the USAJOBS portal.
- Participate in the interview process if selected by the panel.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly limited to two pages; exceeding this limit will result in immediate disqualification.
- Ensure your employment history includes specific dates (month, day, year) and clearly defined responsibilities.
- Clearly indicate any Veterans' Preference eligibility in your cover letter and questionnaire to ensure proper consideration.
- Review your application for accuracy before submitting, as incomplete packages will not be reviewed.
- If you require a reasonable accommodation for the hiring process, reach out to the point of contact as early as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote or telework position?
This position requires the employee to reside in the Middle District of Tennessee (or within 25 miles of the district). While some federal positions offer telework, this role is office-based, and remote work is not authorized.
How often are applications reviewed?
The office processes applications on a rolling basis, with reviews occurring every two weeks beginning October 28, 2026, until all positions are filled.
Are relocation expenses covered?
No, relocation expenses are not authorized for this appointment.
Job from Executive Office For U.S. Attorneys And The Office Of The U.S. Attorneys
The Department of Justice (DOJ) is the premier federal agency responsible for upholding the rule of law. Within the DOJ, the U.S. Attorney's Offices are the engines of federal law enforcement. The Middle District of Tennessee serves a diverse and active population, and the AUSAs here are tasked with protecting citizens, enforcing federal laws, and upholding civil rights. Joining this office means joining a team committed to integrity, excellence, and the protection of the community.