Become an Assistant United States Attorney in New Mexico
The U.S. Attorney's Office (USAO) for the District of New Mexico is a vital component of the Department of Justice, dedicated to upholding the rule of law and protecting the interests of the American people. We are currently searching for highly skilled, motivated attorneys to join our Civil Division in Albuquerque. If you are a litigator who thrives on complex challenges and a mission of public service, this is your opportunity to represent the United States in federal court.
Job Responsibilities
As a Civil Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA), you will play a critical role in the defense of the United States. Your daily responsibilities will evolve with your experience, but will generally include:
- Representing federal agencies in complex civil litigation.
- Defending the government in torts, employment discrimination, and immigration cases.
- Engaging in affirmative litigation to recover wrongfully obtained taxpayer funds.
- Managing case files from the initial investigation through discovery, motions, trial, and potential appeals.
- Providing legal counsel and risk assessment to various client agencies.
- Drafting appellate briefs and conducting oral arguments before district and appellate judges.
Requirements
To be considered for this prestigious position, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Education: A J.D. degree from an accredited law school.
- Bar Status: Active membership in the bar of any U.S. jurisdiction.
- Citizenship: You must be a United States citizen.
- Security: Successful completion of a background investigation, including drug testing, credit, and tax checks.
Qualifications Comparison
| Feature | Mandatory Requirements | Preferred Qualifications |
|---|---|---|
| Education | J.D. Degree | Strong Academic Record |
| Licensure | Active Bar Member | Multi-Jurisdictional Admittance |
| Trial Experience | Basic Legal Knowledge | Proven Record of Complex Litigation |
| Skills | Research & Writing | Expert Courtroom/Negotiation Skills |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range of $77,581 to $182,032 per year. Pay is set administratively based on the candidate's years of professional legal experience, ensuring that your background and expertise are appropriately compensated.
Benefits
Employees of the Department of Justice enjoy a robust federal benefits package designed to support both professional and personal well-being:
- Health and Wellness: Comprehensive health insurance, life insurance, and disability coverage.
- Retirement: Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Work-Life Balance: Generous paid leave, including sick leave, vacation, and federal holidays.
- Flexibility: Opportunities for telework are available based on the nature of the assignment.
Application Tips
- Follow Formatting Precisely: Your resume must not exceed two pages. Failure to adhere to this strictly will lead to an immediate disqualification of your application.
- Be Comprehensive: Ensure you list the start and end dates (month, day, and year) for every position held to ensure your qualifications are fully credited.
- Highlight Litigation Success: Use your resume to showcase specific examples of trials, depositions, or settlements you have managed.
- Veteran Status: If eligible for veterans' preference, include your documentation (such as the DD-214) in your initial application package.
Joining the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of New Mexico is an opportunity to serve your country while sharpening your skills as a premier litigator. With a diverse and challenging caseload, you will find both professional growth and the satisfaction of contributing to the rule of law. We encourage all qualified, high-performing attorneys to submit their applications today.
Why This Assistant United States Attorney (Civil) Job Matters
Take the lead in high-stakes civil litigation and protect the interests of the United States as an Assistant United States Attorney in the beautiful Land of Enchantment.
Assistant United States Attorney (Civil) Job Overview
The U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of New Mexico is seeking dedicated and experienced civil litigators to join our team in Albuquerque. You will represent federal agencies in a diverse array of civil matters, including immigration, employment law, torts, and affirmative litigation to recover taxpayer funds. Our office manages cases across a unique landscape, supporting 23 tribes and pueblos, four military bases, and two national laboratories, making this an ideal role for an attorney who thrives on complex, high-impact legal work.
Requirements for Assistant United States Attorney (Civil)
- Possession of a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree.
- Active membership in the bar of any U.S. jurisdiction.
- United States citizenship.
- Successful completion of a pre-employment background investigation including fingerprinting, credit and tax checks, and drug testing.
- Registration with the Selective Service System for male applicants born after December 31, 1959.
- Residency within the district or within 25 miles of the appointment location.
Preferred Qualifications for Assistant United States Attorney (Civil)
- Prior trial experience in a federal or state court environment.
- Demonstrated ability to manage complex cases from the initial investigative stage through final disposition.
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to articulate critical case issues precisely.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills.
- Exceptional research and interpersonal abilities.
- A track record of professional judgment and courtroom success.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance programs.
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- ✓Telework opportunities where applicable.
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives for qualified candidates.
- ✓Professional development and training in a mission-driven environment.
💡 How to Apply Assistant United States Attorney (Civil) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Assistant United States Attorney (Civil) Job
- Create or log into your account on the official federal jobs portal.
- Review all required documents, ensuring your resume does not exceed the two-page limit.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your full application package before the deadline.
- Monitor your status via the online dashboard to ensure all documents have cleared processing.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to two pages; exceeding this limit will result in immediate disqualification.
- Include specific dates (month, day, year) for all employment history to ensure you receive full credit for your experience.
- Clearly outline your litigation experience, including types of cases and courtroom appearances.
- Submit all required documentation, such as SF-15 for veterans' preference, at the time of initial application.
- Proofread your application thoroughly; precision is a core requirement for this role.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the pay range for this position?
The pay range is between $77,581 and $182,032 annually, which includes locality pay and is administratively determined based on your professional experience.
Do I need to live in Albuquerque to apply?
While you do not need to reside in the district at the time of application, you must be prepared to reside within the district or within 25 miles of your appointment location upon hiring.
Are relocation expenses covered?
Relocation expenses are generally not authorized, though recruitment or relocation incentives may be available depending on the difficulty of filling the position and the candidate's qualifications.
What is the deadline to apply?
The announcement closes on November 16, 2026. Please ensure all documents are submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on that date.
Is travel required for this role?
Occasional travel is expected, as you may be required to handle cases across the district.
Can I apply if I have lived outside the U.S. recently?
Candidates who have resided outside the United States for two or more of the past five years may face challenges in obtaining the required security clearance, though each case is reviewed individually.
Job from Executive Office For U.S. Attorneys And The Office Of The U.S. Attorneys
Located in the vibrant and diverse state of New Mexico, our office is one of 94 USAOs across the nation. New Mexico presents a unique legal environment, encompassing 23 tribal nations, four major military installations, and two national laboratories. As a border state, we occupy a significant place in the national economic and international landscape. The USAO for the District of New Mexico is tasked with high-profile responsibilities that include defending the interests of federal agencies and enforcing federal laws that protect life, liberty, and public property.