Become an Assistant United States Attorney: Join the Eastern District of California
Are you a seasoned litigator looking for a career that serves the public interest? The United States Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of California is currently accepting applications for an Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) within their Immigration Unit. This position offers a unique opportunity to represent the federal government in critical criminal and civil matters, protecting the interests of taxpayers and victims alike.
About the Department of Justice
The Department of Justice (DOJ) serves as the legal backbone of the U.S. government. With a mission to enforce the rule of law, protect civil rights, and ensure national security, the DOJ is a premier employer for legal professionals. Joining the Eastern District of California means working within a high-caliber team dedicated to justice, ethics, and integrity.
Job Responsibilities
As an AUSA in the Immigration Unit, you will be on the front lines of federal litigation. Your daily duties will include:
- Representing the United States in habeas corpus and Mandamus proceedings.
- Defending the government against Administrative Procedure Act (APA) challenges.
- Prosecuting affirmative immigration enforcement actions in federal district court.
- Conducting independent legal research and drafting complex pleadings and correspondence.
- Collaborating with various law enforcement agencies and investigative task forces.
As you gain experience, your responsibilities will grow, offering the potential to handle increasingly complex criminal or civil cases as the office's needs evolve.
Comparison of Office Locations
| Location | Key Characteristics | Lifestyle Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Sacramento | State Capital; center of CA legal hub | Pro sports, river recreation, close to Tahoe |
| Fresno | Central Valley; rapid growth | Access to Yosemite and Sequoia National Parks |
Requirements and Qualifications
To be considered for this competitive position, you must be a U.S. citizen and hold a valid J.D. degree. You must also be an active member in good standing with a state bar.
Preferred Qualifications
The ideal candidate brings 3 to 5 years of litigation experience. Proficiency in electronic discovery, federal grand jury practices, and familiarity with investigatory techniques (such as wiretaps and search warrants) will significantly strengthen your application. Excellent writing, research, and interpersonal skills are essential for thriving in this fast-paced, high-pressure environment.
Salary and Benefits
Compensation for AUSAs is based on professional experience and location.
- Sacramento: $85,075 – $197,100 (includes locality pay).
- Fresno: $77,135 – $180,986 (includes locality pay).
Beyond salary, the federal government offers a comprehensive benefits package including premium health insurance, life insurance, the FERS retirement system, and generous leave policies.
Application Tips for Success
- Format Matters: Keep your resume strictly to two pages. Exceeding this limit will result in immediate disqualification.
- Detail is Key: Clearly state your responsibilities in past roles, including hours worked per week if the role was part-time.
- Use the System: Apply through the USAJOBS portal. Ensure all supporting documents (like your writing sample) are ready before beginning your application.
- Disclose Political Ties: If you have served as a political appointee in the last five years, ensure you include the required SF-50 documentation.
Serving as an Assistant United States Attorney is more than a job—it is a commitment to the rule of law. If you possess the litigation prowess and dedication required, apply now to join the Eastern District of California.
Why This Assistant United States Attorney (Immigration) Job Matters
Advance your legal career with the Department of Justice as an Assistant United States Attorney specializing in immigration litigation in California.
Assistant United States Attorney (Immigration) Job Overview
The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of California is seeking motivated legal professionals to join the Criminal Division’s Immigration Unit. You will represent the federal government in high-stakes litigation, including habeas corpus and Administrative Procedure Act challenges. This role offers the opportunity to make a significant impact on federal enforcement, with the potential to rotate into diverse criminal or civil practice areas over time.
Requirements for Assistant United States Attorney (Immigration)
- U.S. Citizenship
- J.D. degree or equivalent
- Active member in good standing of the bar (any U.S. jurisdiction)
- Ability to pass a comprehensive background investigation, including credit and tax checks
- Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screening
Preferred Qualifications for Assistant United States Attorney (Immigration)
- 3–5 years of litigation experience with exposure to discovery, trial, and appeals
- Familiarity with federal grand jury practice
- Experience with complex investigatory techniques, including electronic surveillance and asset forfeiture
- Demonstrated ability to handle cases from investigation through trial
- Experience working with multi-agency task forces
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Paid federal holidays, vacation, and sick leave
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options
- ✓Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) participation
- ✓Life insurance coverage
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and telework
💡 How to Apply Assistant United States Attorney (Immigration) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Assistant United States Attorney (Immigration) Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare your resume (maximum two pages), cover letter, and a writing sample.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your application and required supporting documents before the closing date.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS portal to track your progress.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit to avoid immediate disqualification.
- Detail your professional experience including specific hours worked and accurate date ranges.
- Highlight any experience with complex federal investigations or litigation in your cover letter.
- If claiming Veterans' Preference, ensure you attach all necessary documentation like the DD-214 or SF-15.
- Apply well before the deadline to ensure your application clears the mandatory virus scanning process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this AUSA position?
This role is specifically for the Immigration Unit within the Criminal Division, involving representation of the government in immigration litigation and enforcement.
Are there opportunities for relocation assistance?
Relocation expenses are not authorized for this position.
Is this a remote or telework position?
While the agency offers telework options, this role requires in-person presence in either Sacramento or Fresno, California.
Can non-citizens apply?
Only in rare, mission-critical instances. Typically, the DOJ requires U.S. citizenship for these positions.
Is there a residency requirement?
Yes, federal law generally requires candidates to have lived in the U.S. for at least three of the last five years to pass security screenings.
What is the selection process?
Applications are reviewed periodically. Qualified applicants will be invited for an interview before a panel of attorneys.