Become an Assistant United States Attorney in Corpus Christi

Are you a dedicated attorney looking to transition into a career defined by purpose, justice, and the rule of law? The United States Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Texas (SDTX) is currently seeking a highly motivated and skilled professional to join the Criminal Division in Corpus Christi. This role is perfect for those ready to step away from the billable hour and into a position where every action contributes to the safety and security of the American public.

Job Responsibilities

As an Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA), you will not be a spectator. You will be expected to:

Lead complex investigations and litigation from the outset.
Represent the United States in federal courtrooms.
Prosecute a variety of violations including organized crime, white-collar crime, narcotics, and firearms offenses.
Collaborate with various federal, state, and local investigative agencies.
Maintain high standards of legal research, writing, and professional advocacy.

Requirements

To be considered for this prestigious position, candidates must meet the following criteria:

Education: Possession of a J.D. degree or equivalent.
Licensure: Must be an active member of the bar in any U.S. jurisdiction by the start date.
Citizenship: Applicants must be U.S. citizens.
Compliance: Must successfully complete a comprehensive background check, security clearance, and a mandatory drug test.
Residency: Must reside within the district or within 25 miles of the appointment location.

Salary and Benefits

The Department of Justice offers a highly competitive compensation package. The salary for this role is determined by the AD pay scale (AD-21 to AD-29), which scales with professional experience.

Compensation Comparison

Feature	Benefit/Requirement
Salary Range	$77,122 - $197,100
Signing Bonus	$20,000 (3-year commitment)
Leave	Paid vacation, sick leave, federal holidays
Health Coverage	Federal benefits options available

Application Tips

Respect the Constraints: Ensure your resume is exactly two pages or less. Submissions exceeding this limit will not be considered.
Quality Writing: Your writing sample is a critical reflection of your skill. Ensure it is persuasive, error-free, and your own individual work from the last three years.
Tailor Your Cover Letter: Address your application directly to the United States Attorney.

Serving as an AUSA in the Southern District of Texas is a unique opportunity to challenge your legal skills in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment. If you have the grit, judgment, and dedication required to uphold the Constitution, we invite you to apply.

Why This Assistant United States Attorney - Criminal Job Matters

Join the front lines of federal justice. The U.S. Attorney's Office in the Southern District of Texas is seeking dedicated, high-caliber attorneys to tackle complex litigation in one of the busiest and most impactful districts in the nation.

Assistant United States Attorney - Criminal Job Overview

As an Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) in the Criminal Division, you will play a critical role in enforcing federal laws, upholding the Constitution, and protecting the safety and interests of the American public. Operating out of the Corpus Christi office, you will handle a diverse and high-stakes caseload including organized crime, financial litigation, immigration, and public corruption. This is an opportunity for mission-driven legal professionals to engage in challenging work that demands exceptional judgment, integrity, and a commitment to public service.

Requirements for Assistant United States Attorney - Criminal

Must possess a J.D. degree (or equivalent).
Must be an active member of the bar in any U.S. jurisdiction by the date of entry on duty.
Must be a United States citizen.
Must pass a drug test and undergo a rigorous suitability/security background investigation.
Must reside in the district of appointment or within 25 miles thereof.

Preferred Qualifications for Assistant United States Attorney - Criminal

Strong academic performance.
Proven track record of high-volume courtroom experience, including first-chair jury trials.
Superior legal research and writing abilities.
Exceptional organizational and time management skills.
Demonstrated ability to work effectively within a professional team environment.
Commitment to professionalism, ethics, and civil service.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary with locality pay
✓$20,000 signing bonus
✓Comprehensive health benefits
✓Federal Employees Retirement System participation
✓Life insurance coverage
✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays

💡 How to Apply Assistant United States Attorney - Criminal Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Assistant United States Attorney - Criminal Job

Ensure your resume is no more than two pages.
Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
Complete the mandatory online occupational questionnaire.
Upload a persuasive writing sample (max 20 pages, composed within the last 3 years).
Submit a cover letter addressed to U.S. Attorney Aaron F. Reitz.
Submit your application package online before the deadline.

💡 General Tips

Apply early to ensure all technical systems process your documents correctly.
Double-check that your resume does not exceed the two-page limit, as this leads to immediate disqualification.
Clearly highlight your courtroom experience in your resume.
If claiming veterans' preference, ensure you submit all required supporting documentation like the DD-214.
Verify the status of your application via the USAJOBS dashboard after submission.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is relocation assistance available?

Relocation expenses may be authorized on a case-by-case basis. Additional incentives may also be available.

What is the pay scale for this position?

The position uses the Administratively Determined (AD) Pay Plan, with grades AD-21 through AD-29 corresponding to experience, ranging from $77,122 to $197,100.

What is the timeline for the hiring process?

The agency aims to issue final job offers within 120 days of the closing date.

Can I request reasonable accommodations?

Yes, the Department of Justice provides reasonable accommodations to qualified applicants with disabilities throughout the hiring process.

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

The Southern District of Texas is one of the most dynamic and consequential districts in the country. Spanning 43 counties and serving millions of citizens, our office is at the front lines of federal law enforcement. From dismantling sophisticated criminal networks to prosecuting fraud and violent crime, the work performed here has tangible, real-world impacts. Joining the SDTX means becoming part of an elite team of prosecutors committed to impartial justice.