Launch Your Career as a Legal Assistant with the U.S. Department of Justice

Are you looking to make a meaningful impact while building a career in the federal legal system? The United States Attorney's Office for the District of Utah is currently seeking a highly skilled Legal Assistant (Office Automation) to support our mission of upholding the law and protecting the rights of citizens. This role is ideal for organized, analytical professionals who thrive in a fast-paced environment.

Job Responsibilities

As a Legal Assistant, you will act as a key support pillar for our attorneys. Your day-to-day duties will involve:

Document Preparation: Drafting, reviewing, and organizing voluminous legal filings, including motions, subpoenas, and pleadings.
Trial Support: Compiling trial notebooks, managing exhibits, and assisting with jury instructions.
Financial Litigation: Monitoring debt collection activities, analyzing debtor financial status, and maintaining accurate payment records.
Administrative Oversight: Utilizing advanced office software to streamline workflow and improve internal efficiency.

Requirements

To be considered for this position at the GS-8 level, you must demonstrate the following:

Specialized Experience: At least one year of full-time experience equivalent to the GS-7 level in a similar legal or financial environment.
Technical Skill: Proof of your ability to type at least 40 words per minute.
Documentation: A concise, two-page resume that highlights your relevant employment history and technical expertise.

Comparison of Qualifications

Feature	Requirement
Experience Level	GS-8 equivalent
Typing Speed	40 WPM
Resume Limit	2 Pages Max
Security Clearance	High Risk / Special Sensitive

Salary and Benefits

The position offers a competitive annual salary ranging from $55,882 to $72,644, depending on experience. Beyond the salary, federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package, including:

Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision plans.
Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
Life insurance and long-term care options.

Application Tips

Success in the federal hiring process relies on strict adherence to instructions.

Respect the Page Limit: The two-page limit on your resume is strict; exceeding it will disqualify you immediately.
Assessment Readiness: When you receive the invite to the USA Hire assessments, treat it with priority. You must complete this within 48 hours.
Detail Your Experience: Clearly explain your financial litigation experience, including specific mention of skip tracing, asset identification, and debtor interviews.

Working for the District of Utah's USAO is more than just a job; it is a commitment to public service. If you possess the legal administrative skills and the drive to contribute to complex litigation, apply today through the USAJOBS portal. This open continuous announcement gives you the flexibility to submit your materials whenever you are ready to start the next chapter of your career.

Why This Legal Assistant (Oa) Job Matters

Launch a impactful career with the Department of Justice by providing critical support to federal legal proceedings in Utah.

Legal Assistant (Oa) Job Overview

The United States Attorney's Office for the District of Utah is seeking a detail-oriented Legal Assistant (Office Automation) to join our team in Salt Lake City. In this role, you will provide essential technical and administrative support for complex financial litigation and debt collection activities. This is an open continuous announcement, allowing for ongoing recruitment as needs arise within our administrative, appellate, civil, and criminal divisions.

Requirements for Legal Assistant (Oa)

One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-7 level in federal service.
Expertise in asset identification and debt collection processes.
Ability to type at least 40 words per minute with three or fewer errors (a typing test may be required).
Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Completion of a required online assessment.
Submission of a resume not exceeding two pages.

Preferred Qualifications for Legal Assistant (Oa)

Experience in financial litigation support.
Proven proficiency in skip tracing and locating assets.
Strong negotiation skills regarding payment schedules and debt resolution.
Experience in preparing complex legal documents such as motions, orders, and pleadings.
Ability to reconcile payment transactions and manage voluminous legal files.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive health insurance plans
✓Life insurance coverage
✓Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) participation
✓Generous paid vacation and sick leave
✓Paid federal holidays
✓Opportunities for professional development

💡 How to Apply Legal Assistant (Oa) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Legal Assistant (Oa) Job

Review the full announcement details and requirements thoroughly.
Click the Apply Online button and complete the online questionnaire.
Submit your two-page resume and any required documentation (DD-214, SF-15, or CTAP/ICTAP proof) through the portal.
Monitor your email for a notification regarding the required USA Hire Competency Based Assessments.
Complete the online assessments within 48 hours of notification.
Finalize and submit your application package before the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Keep your resume strictly to two pages or it will be automatically disqualified.
Double-check your employment dates; include month, day, and year for all entries.
Set aside at least three hours of uninterrupted time for the USA Hire assessment.
Ensure all supporting documentation for veterans' preference or hiring status is clearly labeled.
Review your status periodically through your USAJOBS account dashboard.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an open continuous announcement?

It means the position remains open for an extended period, and the agency reviews applications in 30-day cycles to fill vacancies as they emerge.

What is the typing requirement for this role?

You must be capable of typing at least 40 words per minute based on a five-minute sample with three or fewer errors.

Can I request an accommodation for the assessment?

Yes, applicants with disabilities covered by the Rehabilitation Act can request reasonable accommodations by following the specific procedures outlined in the application instructions.

Do I need a law degree for this position?

No, this position requires specialized administrative and litigation support experience, not a law degree.

Is there an age limit for applicants?

No, federal hiring is based on merit and the specific job requirements listed in the announcement.

Will I need a background check?

Yes, this position requires a high-risk/special-sensitive background investigation due to the nature of the information handled.

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

The United States Attorney’s Office (USAO) serves as the primary litigation arm of the U.S. government within the District of Utah. Our team works across four critical divisions—Administrative, Appellate, Civil, and Criminal—to prosecute federal crimes and represent the United States in civil litigation. By joining our team, you are contributing to a legacy of integrity, justice, and community protection.