Launch Your Career as an Assistant United States Attorney (Civil) in Houston
If you are an attorney seeking a career defined by mission, impact, and challenge rather than billable hours, the United States Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Texas (SDTX) offers an unparalleled opportunity. We are currently looking for talented, dedicated legal professionals to join our Civil Division in Houston.
Job Responsibilities
As an AUSA in the Civil Division, you will be expected to:
- Manage and lead high-stakes civil litigation from investigation through resolution.
- Conduct legal research and draft persuasive pleadings independently.
- Represent the United States in federal courtroom proceedings.
- Collaborate with investigative agencies and support staff to enforce federal civil laws.
- Assume increased responsibilities as your training and experience evolve.
Requirements
| Requirement Type | Specification |
|---|---|
| Education | J.D. Degree or equivalent |
| Certification | Active member of the bar (any U.S. jurisdiction) |
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
| Experience | Varies by AD-21 to AD-29 pay scale |
All candidates must be able to pass a drug test and a high-risk security background investigation. Compliance with residency requirements is strictly enforced.
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive salary structure commensurate with professional legal experience. The AD-21 to AD-29 pay grades ensure that both early-career and seasoned attorneys are compensated fairly. In addition to salary, employees receive a robust benefits package including health insurance, retirement planning, and generous leave policies. Significant incentives, such as a $20,000 signing bonus (subject to a 3-year commitment), are available for qualifying hires.
Application Tips
To ensure your application is competitive:
- Be Precise: Your resume must not exceed two pages; strictly follow this or risk disqualification.
- Persuade: Use a writing sample that showcases your ability to untangle complex legal concepts.
- Act Quickly: While the deadline is early 2027, the office reviews applications on a rolling basis. Early submission increases your visibility.
This position is more than a job—it is a calling. If you possess the grit, judgment, and legal acumen to represent the United States, we encourage you to apply. Join the Southern District of Texas and contribute to a mission that protects the liberty and property of your fellow Americans.
Why This Assistant United States Attorney - Civil Job Matters
Step into the front lines of American justice: Build a career with impact as an Assistant United States Attorney in the Southern District of Texas.
Assistant United States Attorney - Civil Job Overview
The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Texas is seeking highly qualified, dedicated attorneys to join the Civil Division in Houston. This is a rare opportunity to manage complex, high-stakes litigation and defend the interests of the United States in one of the country's busiest and most influential federal districts. Candidates will handle diverse caseloads, tackling significant legal challenges that directly impact the safety, security, and prosperity of the American public.
Requirements for Assistant United States Attorney - Civil
- Possess a J.D. degree or equivalent by the entry on duty date.
- Must be an active member of the bar in any U.S. jurisdiction.
- United States citizenship is mandatory.
- Ability to pass a rigorous background investigation and drug screening.
- Must meet residency requirements, generally within 25 miles of the assigned district.
- Male applicants born after 1959 must be registered with the Selective Service System.
Preferred Qualifications for Assistant United States Attorney - Civil
- Superior legal research and writing abilities.
- Extensive courtroom experience, particularly with first-chair jury trials.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage high-volume caseloads.
- Proven capacity for self-sufficient legal research and drafting of complex pleadings.
- Demonstrated commitment to ethics, civility, and public service.
- Excellent interpersonal skills for working within professional team environments.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with locality adjustments.
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance and life insurance plans.
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- ✓Potential for a $20,000 signing bonus with a 3-year service commitment.
- ✓Possible relocation-expense incentives for qualifying candidates.
💡 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 USAJOBS portal.
- Complete the mandatory online occupational questionnaire.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages.
- Draft a persuasive writing sample (max 20 pages, created in the last 3 years).
- Address a cover letter to the United States Attorney, Aaron F. Reitz.
- Submit your complete application package before the deadline.
- Verify the status of your application through the portal.
💡 General Tips
- Submit your application early; applications are reviewed on a rolling basis every 14 days.
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit to avoid disqualification.
- Double-check that all required supporting documentation, including bar membership details, is included.
- If you are claiming veterans' preference, ensure you attach the correct SF-15 and proof of service.
- Tailor your writing sample to demonstrate your ability to articulate critical, complex legal issues clearly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the pay scale for this position?
This position utilizes the Administratively Determined (AD) Pay Plan, with grades ranging from AD-21 to AD-29, offering a salary range of $88,510 to $197,100 based on experience.
Is travel required for this role?
Yes, the position may require travel ranging from 1 to 5 nights per month, though this can vary based on caseload requirements.
Are there incentives for new hires?
Yes, selected candidates may be eligible for a $20,000 signing bonus with a three-year service commitment and potentially relocation assistance.
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 federal districts in the nation. Spanning 43 counties and serving over 10 million citizens, our office is at the forefront of the Department of Justice's mission. We do not just process cases; we secure our borders, combat sophisticated fraud, and defend the rule of law. Serving as an Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) here means you will be on the front lines, representing the United States in federal court against some of the most complex civil issues facing our nation today.