Assistant United States Attorney (Appellate)

About the role

This announcement will be used to fill one position in the Central District of Illinois. As needed, additional positions may be filled using this announcement. The announcement may close prior to the date in the announcement if all positions are filled. This position is open until filled. However, first round consideration will be given to applications submitted by March 5, 2026, 11:59 pm, Eastern Standard Time. Applicant lists will be reviewed approximately every 30 days.

Responsibilities

• Help draft briefs and present oral arguments on constitutional, statutory, evidentiary, and procedural issues in appeals arising from the Criminal Division.
• Review briefs drafted by colleagues and participate in moot courts to prepare AUSAs for oral arguments.
• Assist with complex district court litigation and provide advice to other prosecutors on significant legal issues.

Requirements

• Conditions of employment: Must be a United States Citizen or National. Initial appointment is conditioned upon a satisfactory preemployment adjudication. Continued employment is subject to a favorable adjudication of a background investigation. Must be registered for Selective Service, if applicable. J.D. degree and active member of the bar (any U.S. jurisdiction) required. Must reside in the district to which appointed or within 25 miles thereof. See 28 U.S.C. 545 for district specific information.

Qualifications

• Required qualifications: Applicants must possess a J.D. degree (or equivalent), be an active member of the bar (any U.S. jurisdiction), and have at least 1 year of post-J.D. (or equivalent) legal or other relevant experience. Superior oral and written communication skills as well as strong interpersonal skills, exhibit good judgment, and function with minimal guidance in a highly demanding environment are required.
• PREFERRED qualifications: Strong academic credentials and advocacy skills, superior legal research and writing skills, an ability to accurately and precisely articulate case-related issues, outstanding interpersonal skills, and a demonstrated ability to work in a supportive and professional environment with all members of the office, client agencies, and others, and possess sound legal and ethical judgment.

Pay and Benefits

• Salary Information: Assistant United States Attorney's pay is administratively determined based, in part, on the number of years of professional attorney experience. The range of pay for Springfield, Peoria, and Urbana is $80,000 to $150,000, which includes 17.06% locality, plus benefits. The range of pay for Moline is $80,000 to $150,000 which includes 18.93% locality, plus benefits.
• Other Benefits: The Department of Justice offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes, in part, paid vacation; sick leave; holidays; life insurance; health benefits; and participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System.

Travel

Some. Not on a regular basis.