Assistant United States Attorney

About the Role

The United States Attorney's Office for the District of Alaska is a vibrant and energetic office in the most majestic state in the country, with locations in Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Juneau. This opportunity is in the Criminal Division of the Anchorage office, where nearly 30 Assistant United States Attorneys prosecute federal crimes and defend the interests of the United States in civil cases.

The successful candidate will primarily handle the investigation and prosecution of federal crimes in national priority areas, including violent crime, fentanyl trafficking, gang/cartel-related crimes, and illegal firearms offenses. Additionally, the candidate may assist in prosecuting other criminal cases such as child exploitation, fraud, and public corruption. Assistant United States Attorneys manage cases from inception through appeal, including drafting appellate briefs and presenting oral arguments before the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals.

The ideal candidate must demonstrate the legal acumen to prosecute complex organized crime or drug trafficking cases, either independently or with appropriate training. A commitment to the District of Alaska, a prosecutor’s professional temperament, ethical judgment, and a dedication to justice are essential. The candidate should also be an inspiring colleague and team player, with responsibilities increasing as training and experience progress.

Responsibilities

• Investigate and prosecute federal crimes in priority areas such as violent crime, fentanyl trafficking, gang/cartel-related crimes, and illegal firearms offenses.
• Assist in prosecuting a wide variety of other criminal cases, including child exploitation, fraud, and public corruption.
• Handle cases from inception through appeal, including district court work and appellate brief drafting.
• Present oral arguments before the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals.
• Demonstrate the ability to prosecute complex organized crime or drug trafficking cases, either independently or with training.
• Uphold the rule of law, protect public safety, and ensure the rights of defendants are respected.
• Act as a dedicated team player and inspiring colleague, with increasing responsibilities as experience progresses.

Requirements

• United States citizenship is required.
• J.D. degree and active membership in good standing of the bar of any U.S. jurisdiction.
• Minimum one (1) year of post-J.D. legal experience.
• Must reside in the District of Alaska or within 25 miles thereof (28 U.S.C. 545).
• Initial appointment is conditioned upon a satisfactory preemployment adjudication, including fingerprint, credit, tax checks, and drug testing.
• Continued employment is subject to a favorable adjudication of a background investigation.
• Selective Service registration is required for male applicants born after December 31, 1959, if applicable.

Qualifications

• Excellent academic credentials and superior analytical abilities.
• Strong oral communication and writing skills.
• Good judgment, strong character, and a commitment to ethical prosecution.
• Ability to work collaboratively and inspire colleagues.
• Mentoring and training will be provided to support professional development.

Pay

Assistant United States Attorney pay is administratively determined based on years of professional attorney experience. The range of basic pay is $80,000 to $197,100, which includes locality pay.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package, including paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Telework opportunities.
• Life insurance and health benefits.
• Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System.

Some travel is required. Relocation expenses will not be authorized.