Assistant United States Attorney

Summary Take on high-stakes federal cases in one of the nation's largest and busiest U.S. Attorney's Offices. The Southern District of Texas (SDTX) spans 43 counties, 44,000 square miles, and 10 million citizens from Houston to the U.S.-Mexico border. As an Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) you will join the elite ranks of federal prosecutors to manage complex litigation, pursue justice, and defend the rule of law. This is a mission for attorneys ready to take action and make a difference.

Location This position is located in McAllen, Texas.

The Southern District of Texas (SDTX) is on the front lines of some of the most consequential legal battles in America. From dismantling sophisticated criminal networks and securing our border to combating fraud, protecting federal interests, and defending the rule of law in court, our work has real consequences for the safety, security, and prosperity of the American people. If you want a legal career defined by mission, challenge, and impact—not simply a legal job billing hours—this is your opportunity.

As an Assistant United States Attorney in SDTX, you will not spend years waiting for meaningful responsibility. You will tackle high‑stakes cases, lead complex investigations and litigation, and represent the United States in federal court. You will confront difficult legal questions, sharpen your advocacy, and take on challenges that demand sound judgment, intellectual rigor, and courage. In one of the nation's largest, busiest, and most dynamic federal districts, your work will advance the Department of Justice's mission to enforce federal law, defend the interests of the United States, and ensure that justice is administered impartially.

The work is demanding. The stakes are real. The standards are high. We are looking for attorneys—both aspiring and experienced—with grit, integrity, sound judgment, and an unwavering commitment to the Constitution and the rule of law. In return, you will have the opportunity to serve alongside dedicated professionals, take ownership of consequential matters, and make a tangible difference in the lives of your fellow Americans.

We are hiring for this position at pay grades AD-21 through AD-29 of the Administratively Determined Pay Plan. These grades generally correspond to an applicant's years of professional attorney experience. For example, AD-21 typically applies to attorneys with 0–2 years of experience, while AD-29 applies to attorneys with 9 or more years. The current salary range for AD-21 through AD-29 is $76,748.00 to $197,100.00, including applicable locality pay.

Candidates selected for an AUSA position under this job posting will receive a $20,000 signing bonus with a 3‑year service commitment. Some candidates may also be eligible for an additional relocation‑expense incentive, which will be discussed on a case‑by‑case basis as applicants navigate through the process.

For more information on the Department of Justice and the U.S. Attorney's Office, visit:

• http://www.justice.gov/careers/careers.html
• http://www.justice.gov/usao-sdtx

Residency Requirements Assistant United States Attorneys generally must reside in the district to which they are appointed or within 25 miles thereof. See 28 U.S.C. 545 for district‑specific information.

Selective Service: If you are a male applicant born after December 31, 1959, you must certify that you have registered with the Selective Service System, or are exempt from having to do so under the Selective Service Law. See www.sss.gov.

Conditions of Employment

• You must be a United States Citizen or National.
• Initial appointment is conditioned upon a satisfactory preemployment adjudication. This includes fingerprint, credit and tax checks, and drug testing. Continued employment is subject to a favorable adjudication of a background investigation.
• You must be registered for Selective Service, if applicable.
• Applicants must possess a J.D. degree (or equivalent) and be an active member of the bar (any U.S. jurisdiction) by their entry on duty date. Law school graduates and current law students taking an upcoming bar examination may be considered.
• Must reside in the district to which appointed or within 25 miles thereof. See 28 U.S.C. 545 for district‑specific information.

Required Qualifications

Applicants must possess a J.D. degree (or equivalent) and be an active member of the bar (any U.S. jurisdiction) by their entry on duty date. Law school graduates and current law students taking an upcoming bar examin