Launch Your Career as an Assistant United States Attorney in California
Are you a litigator seeking to represent the United States in high-stakes federal proceedings? The Department of Justice (DOJ) is seeking talented attorneys to join the Criminal Division in the Eastern District of California. This is a rare opportunity to engage in meaningful work that protects the rule of law while building an unparalleled legal career.
Job Responsibilities
As an AUSA, your caseload will be dynamic and demanding. You will manage complex criminal investigations from their inception, work with federal law enforcement agencies, present evidence to grand juries, and conduct trials and appeals. Your responsibilities will evolve as you gain experience, allowing you to take on increasingly significant cases.
Unit Overview
| Location | Key Focus Areas |
|---|---|
| Sacramento | White Collar, Special Prosecution, National Security, Appellate |
| Fresno | White Collar, Narcotics & Violent Crime |
| Bakersfield | White Collar, Narcotics & Violent Crime |
Requirements
To be considered, candidates must hold a J.D. degree and be an active member of the bar in any U.S. jurisdiction. We are looking for self-starters who possess exceptional analytical, research, and oral advocacy skills. Given the nature of federal work, candidates must be able to pass a rigorous background check, including financial and drug testing.
Salary and Benefits
The salary for these positions is determined by experience and the specific locality pay of the duty station (Sacramento, Fresno, or Bakersfield). The DOJ provides a robust benefits package including health, life insurance, and federal retirement planning.
Application Tips
- Respect the Limit: Your resume MUST be two pages or less.
- Be Specific: Include dates, hours worked, and specific accomplishments.
- Prepare for Review: Ensure your writing sample represents your best analytical work.
Serving as an AUSA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to public service. If you are ready to tackle the challenges of the federal criminal justice system, we encourage you to submit your application today.
Why This Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal Division) Job Matters
Join the front lines of federal litigation and shape the future of justice in California as an Assistant United States Attorney.
Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal Division) Job Overview
The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of California is actively seeking motivated, high-caliber attorneys to join our Criminal Division. With offices in Sacramento, Fresno, and Bakersfield, you will represent the interests of the United States in a broad spectrum of federal criminal prosecutions, ranging from complex white-collar investigations to violent crime and national security matters. This is a unique opportunity for legal professionals to work on high-stakes cases while making a tangible impact on public safety and the rule of law.
Requirements for Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal Division)
- Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree or equivalent from an accredited law school.
- Active, good-standing membership in the bar of any U.S. jurisdiction.
- United States citizenship.
- Ability to pass a comprehensive pre-employment background investigation, including drug testing and credit checks.
- Submission of a professional resume (maximum two pages).
- Submission of a formal cover letter and a legal writing sample.
Preferred Qualifications for Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal Division)
- Three to five years of litigation experience with direct responsibility for discovery, trials, and appeals.
- Familiarity with federal grand jury practice and complex investigatory techniques.
- Experience working with multi-agency task forces.
- Strong proficiency in modern legal research, electronic court filing systems, and word processing.
- Demonstrated aptitude for handling complex cases from investigation through trial.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options
- ✓Life insurance coverage
- ✓Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) participation
- ✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training
- ✓Potential for recruitment incentives for select locations
💡 How to Apply Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal Division) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal Division) Job
- Create or update your profile on the official federal hiring portal.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two pages.
- Draft a tailored cover letter and select a high-quality writing sample.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire via the application link.
- Verify that all supporting documents are uploaded and processed before the deadline.
- Monitor your application status through your online candidate account.
💡 General Tips
- Adhere strictly to the two-page resume limit; non-compliant applications will be automatically disqualified.
- Clearly detail your litigation experience, including specific dates and hours worked per week.
- If claiming veterans' preference, ensure your DD-214 or SF-15 documentation is uploaded.
- If you have concerns about potential conflicts of interest, address them early with the HR contact.
- Apply well in advance of the deadline to allow time for system processing and virus scanning of your documents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply if I am not currently living in California?
Yes, but be aware that relocation expenses are not authorized for these positions.
What is the typical timeframe for the hiring process?
The office aims to make final offers within approximately 120 days of the announcement closing.
Is telework available?
Telework options exist; however, this is a litigator position that requires frequent courtroom presence and coordination with law enforcement agencies.
Job from Executive Office For U.S. Attorneys And The Office Of The U.S. Attorneys
The Eastern District of California covers a vast geographic area. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is responsible for representing the federal government in virtually all civil and criminal litigation within the district. Our team of Assistant United States Attorneys (AUSAs) handles everything from white-collar fraud to national security and narcotics trafficking, ensuring the safety and protection of our citizens.