Launch Your Federal Career as an Assistant United States Attorney in Chicago
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Illinois (NDIL) is currently accepting applications for Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) positions within its Civil Division. This is a premier opportunity for experienced legal professionals to represent the interests of the United States, its agencies, and its employees in the federal court system.
Job Responsibilities
As an AUSA, your duties will be dynamic and multifaceted. You will:
- Represent the United States in defensive litigation, including medical malpractice and employment discrimination.
- Initiate affirmative litigation regarding civil rights, fraud, and health care compliance.
- Conduct thorough legal research and draft complex motions and briefs.
- Appear in United States District Court and the Court of Appeals.
Role Comparison Table
| Feature | AUSA (Civil Division) | Private Practice Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Client | The United States | Corporate/Individual |
| Primary Goal | Public Interest/Justice | Profit/Client Success |
| Case Variety | High (Agency/Government) | Variable (Sector-specific) |
| Courtroom Time | Frequent/High-Level | Varies significantly |
Requirements
To qualify for this position, applicants must:
- Possess a J.D. degree.
- Be a member in good standing of a U.S. bar.
- Have at least two years of post-J.D. legal experience.
- Be a U.S. citizen.
- Successfully pass a rigorous background check.
Salary and Benefits
Compensation is determined by your years of experience, with a salary range between $85,796 and $197,100. The federal government offers a robust benefits package, including:
- Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System.
- Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
- Paid annual leave, sick leave, and all federal holidays.
Application Tips
- Format Matters: Your resume must be two pages or fewer.
- Submission Method: Ensure you follow the dual-submission process—using both the USAJobs portal and the dedicated email address.
- Clarity: Highlight your specific litigation experience in your cover letter.
Working as an AUSA in the Northern District of Illinois is a career-defining experience. If you are ready to apply your legal expertise in service of the nation, submit your application today.
Why This Assistant United States Attorney (Civil) Job Matters
Serve the public interest and sharpen your litigation skills at the Northern District of Illinois. Join a prestigious team of Assistant United States Attorneys and represent the federal government in complex civil legal challenges.
Assistant United States Attorney (Civil) Job Overview
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Illinois is seeking dedicated legal professionals to join its Civil Division in Chicago. This role offers the unique opportunity to manage a diverse portfolio of defensive and affirmative litigation, ranging from civil rights and fraud cases to employment law and government agency representation. As an AUSA, you will handle substantial legal research, motion practice, and courtroom proceedings, playing a vital role in upholding federal law.
Requirements for Assistant United States Attorney (Civil)
- Possession of a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree or equivalent.
- Active, good-standing membership in the bar of any U.S. jurisdiction.
- Minimum of 2 years of post-J.D. legal or relevant professional experience.
- United States citizenship.
- Ability to pass a rigorous background investigation and drug screening.
- If applicable, registration with the Selective Service System for male applicants born after Dec 31, 1959.
Preferred Qualifications for Assistant United States Attorney (Civil)
- Superior academic performance.
- Demonstrated experience in complex civil litigation.
- Advanced proficiency in legal writing and research.
- Strong evidence of a long-term commitment to public service.
- Ability to manage increasing caseload complexity with minimal supervision.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) participation
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance plans
- ✓Life insurance options
- ✓Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays
- ✓Potential for telework arrangements
- ✓Structured, competitive salary based on years of attorney experience
💡 How to Apply Assistant United States Attorney (Civil) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Assistant United States Attorney (Civil) Job
- Create or update your USAJobs account.
- Prepare a resume (maximum 2 pages) and a formal cover letter.
- Submit your resume, cover letter, law school transcripts, a recent writing sample, and the required AUSA questionnaire to the provided email address.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire via the USAJobs portal.
- Monitor your application status through your USAJobs account dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Strictly adhere to the two-page resume limit; exceeding this will disqualify your application.
- Ensure all five required items are sent in PDF format to the designated hiring email address.
- Clearly articulate your litigation experience and public service motivation in your personal statement.
- Use the USAJobs 'Track Status' feature to verify that your documents have been successfully processed.
- Apply early, as applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a temporary position?
No, this is an open continuous announcement to fill numerous permanent AUSA positions within the Northern District of Illinois.
Can I submit my writing sample through USAJobs?
No. Items 2 through 5 of the application package must be sent via email to the specific hiring email address provided in the announcement.
What level of security clearance is required?
The position requires a Top Secret security clearance, which includes a comprehensive background check.
What is the residency requirement?
AUSAs are generally expected to reside in the district of their appointment or within 25 miles of it.
Is relocation assistance provided?
No, relocation expenses are not covered for this position.
Job from Executive Office For U.S. Attorneys And The Office Of The U.S. Attorneys
The Northern District of Illinois serves a vital role in upholding the rule of law. With offices in both Chicago and Rockford, the office manages a massive volume of criminal and civil matters. As an AUSA in the Civil Division, you will be part of a team responsible for defensive and affirmative litigation that shapes federal policy and justice.