Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal)

United States Attorneys' Offices; Allentown (Lehigh County); On-site; USD 90,444 - 197,100; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid vacation

Sick leave

Health benefits

Federal Employees Retirement System

Job summary

The United States Attorneys' Offices is looking for an Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) in Allentown to combat serious federal crimes including gang violence and fraud. As an AUSA, you will lead significant prosecutions, working closely with law enforcement and developing cases from the ground up.

This role requires strong analytical and courtroom skills, a J.D. degree, and active bar membership. A comprehensive benefits package is included, and salary ranges from $90,444 to $197,100 based on experience.

Qualifications

• At least one year of post-J.D. legal experience.
• Active membership in any U.S. jurisdiction bar.
• Residence within 25 miles of the district.

Responsibilities

• Lead investigations and prosecutions of serious federal crimes.
• Negotiate, litigate, and try cases in court.
• Collaborate with federal agents and law enforcement organizations.

Skills

Strong analytical thinking

Excellent writing skills

Courtroom skills

Education

J.D. degree

Job description

Overview

The United States Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania is seeking federal prosecutors to join one of the largest and most prestigious offices in the country to combat gang violence, cartel networks, and high-dollar corporate and government fraud.

Our office fosters a collaborative, team‑oriented environment.

Responsibilities

As an Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA), you will lead investigations and prosecutions of serious federal crimes, hold dangerous offenders accountable, and advocate for the United States in court.

• Lead high-impact federal investigations and prosecutions tackling violent crimes, drug trafficking, fraud, public corruption, and immigration offenses.
• Build cases from the ground up, partnering with federal agents, developing evidence, and shaping investigative and trial strategy.
• Stand in court on behalf of the United States, advocating with clarity, precision, and conviction.
• Negotiate, litigate, and try cases that carry real consequences for public safety and national interests.

Positions & Units

We are hiring across the Criminal Division:

• Violent Crimes and Narcotics & Organized Crime units – for attorneys eager to prosecute violent offenders, gangs, and cartel members.
• White‑collar units – including Healthcare Fraud, Economic Crimes, and Public Corruption & Civil Rights – for candidates with federal criminal trial experience.

We are seeking attorneys who bring intensity, sound judgment, and strategic thinking to complex investigations. Successful candidates will manage significant, multi‑defendant prosecutions that deliver measurable results for public safety.

This role demands initiative and ownership. AUSAs are empowered to identify emerging threats, open and drive investigations, and work closely with law enforcement and agency partners to pursue the cases that matter most.

If you're ready to take the lead in the courtroom and make a lasting impact, this is where you do it.

Eligibility & Requirements

• United States citizen or national.
• J.D. degree and active membership in any U.S. jurisdiction bar.
• At least one year of post‑J.D. legal (or relevant) experience.
• Residence in the district of appointment or within 25 miles.
• Initial appointment conditioned upon satisfactory pre‑employment adjudication (fingerprint, credit, tax checks, drug testing) and continued employment subject to background investigation.
• Register with the Selective Service if applicable.

Qualifications

Required:

• J.D. degree; active membership in any U.S. jurisdiction bar; one year or more post‑J.D. experience.
• United States citizenship.

Preferred:

• Strong analytical thinker with excellent writing and courtroom skills.
• Federal clerkship and strong academic record.
• Commitment to professionalism, ethics, civility, and public service.
• For white‑collar sections, demonstrated proficiency in white‑collar/fraud cases or federal criminal trial experience.
• Three or more years of post‑J.D. experience litigating cases with significant responsibility for discovery and trial.

Salary

Assistant United States Attorney compensation is administratively determined based on years of experience. The total salary range, including locality pay, is $90,444 to $197,100 for the Allentown locality and $90,000 to $197,100 for the Philadelphia locality.

Benefits

The Department of Justice offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes paid vacation, sick leave, paid federal holidays, life insurance, health benefits, and participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System.

Travel & Relocation

Approximately 25% or less of travel is expected. Relocation expenses will not be authorized.

EEO Statement

The United States government does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non‑merit factor.