Assistant United States Attorney - Criminal

United States Attorneys' Offices; Springfield (IL); On-site; USD 80,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid vacation

Health benefits

Life insurance

Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System

Job summary

The United States Attorneys' Offices in Springfield, Illinois, is seeking a Criminal Assistant U.S. Attorney. This position involves investigating and prosecuting various federal criminal cases, including violent crimes and human trafficking.

Applicants must hold a J.D. degree and possess at least two years of post-J.D. legal experience. A strong communication skill set and the ability to work independently are crucial. The salary range is between $80,000 and $150,000, with a robust benefits package.

Qualifications

• Minimum of two years of post-J.D. legal or related experience.
• Active membership in any U.S. jurisdiction bar.

Responsibilities

• Investigate and prosecute federal criminal cases including violent crime, human trafficking, and white-collar crime.
• Work with colleagues and law enforcement officials.

Skills

Superior oral and written communication skills

Strong interpersonal skills

Good judgment

Ability to work independently

Strong advocacy skills

Analytical ability

Team-oriented demeanor

Education

J.D. degree

Job description

Summary

This announcement is to fill a Criminal Assistant U.S. Attorney position in the Central District of Illinois. The position may close prior to the announced date if all positions are filled. First‑round consideration will be given to applications submitted by February 8, 2026, 11:59 pm EST, with applicant lists reviewed approximately every 30 days.

Responsibilities

The assistant United States attorney (AUSA) will investigate and prosecute a wide variety of federal criminal cases, including violent crime, crimes against children, immigration, human trafficking, drug offenses, national security, firearms trafficking, and white‑collar crime. As training and experience progress, the AUSA’s duties will increase in complexity and assignment scope. The AUSA will work with colleagues and federal, state, and local law‑enforcement officials.

Residency

Assistants must reside in the district or within 25 miles thereof, per 28 U.S.C. 545.

Selective Service

Male applicants born after December 31, 1959 must certify registration with the Selective Service System or demonstrate exemption.

Application Requirements

• Your responses to the Online Occupational Questionnaire (completed automatically during the application process).
• A resume no longer than two pages, formatted per USAJOBS guidelines; include official position title, employer name and contact, start and end dates (month, day, year), full‑time or part‑time hours, and a list of duties and accomplishments.
• Residence within the district or within 25 miles, confirmed by 28 U.S.C. 545.
• Pre‑employment adjudication, including fingerprint, credit, tax checks, and drug testing. Continued employment requires a favorable background investigation.
• United States citizenship or nationality.

Required Qualifications

• J.D. degree (or equivalent) and active membership in any U.S. jurisdiction bar.
• Minimum of two years of post‑J.D. legal or related experience.
• Superior oral and written communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills, good judgment, and the ability to work independently in a demanding environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Strong advocacy skills and advanced legal research and writing abilities.
• Rapid analytical ability to articulate case‑related issues clearly and accurately.
• Team‑oriented, supportive, and professional demeanor with client agencies, support staff, and other attorneys.
• Sound legal and ethical judgment.

Education

Applicants must hold a J.D. degree.

Salary Information

The basic salary range is $80,000 to $150,000, which includes 17.06% locality pay.

Benefits

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

Relocation and Travel

Relocation expenses will not be authorized. Travel is occasional and not on a regular basis.

Political Appointees

Applicants who are current or former political schedule A, schedule C, or non‑career SES employees in the Executive Branch within the last five years must disclose this information to the HR office; failure to do so may result in disciplinary action.

Security Requirements

Initial appointment requires a satisfactory pre‑employment adjudication, including fingerprint, credit, tax checks, and drug testing. Continued employment requires a favorable background investigation.

EEO Statement

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

Conflict of Interest

Applicants should comply with professional conduct rules regarding potential conflicts of interest. Notify the office if you currently represent clients or adjudicate matters involving this office, or if a family member has such representations.