The U.S. Department of Justice is currently hiring two Assistant United States Attorneys (AUSAs) in the Civil Division of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of North Carolina, based in Greensboro, NC.
This is a rare chance to join one of the most respected legal teams in the federal government, handling high-impact cases that protect federal interests across diverse areas of law. Applications are open now through February 5, 2026 (with some references noting a possible earlier cutoff—verify on USAJOBS).
What Is an Assistant United States Attorney (Civil)?
As an AUSA in the Civil Division, you’ll represent the United States, its agencies, and employees in civil litigation at both trial and appellate levels. This role involves defending the federal government against claims in key practice areas, including:
- Federal tort claims
- Land and environmental disputes
- Employment discrimination cases
- Immigration-related litigation
- Constitutional torts (Bivens actions)
Daily responsibilities include taking depositions, handling discovery, negotiating settlements, filing motions, trying cases before judges and juries, and preparing appellate briefs and arguments. You may also support related matters such as:
- Civil asset forfeiture
- Health care fraud defense
- Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) cases
- Administrative enforcement actions
- Debt collection for the government (including student loans and foreclosures)
The position offers increasing complexity and responsibility as you gain experience—ideal for attorneys seeking meaningful, challenging work with direct impact on national policy and justice.
Job Details at a Glance
- Job Title: Assistant United States Attorney (Civil)
- Series/Grade: 0905 Attorney, AD-23 (with promotion potential to AD-29)
- Salary Range: $79,440 – $193,394 per year (includes 17.06% locality pay for Greensboro, NC area)
- Location: Greensboro, NC (2 vacancies)
- Job Type: Full-time, Permanent, Excepted Service
- Telework/Remote: Not eligible (in-office role)
- Travel: Occasional (primarily for training)
- Relocation Expenses: Not authorized
- Announcement Number: 26-NCM-12861685-AUSA
- Control Number: 853819000
- Open Date: January 8, 2026
- Close Date: February 5, 2026 (apply early—positions may close sooner)
This position is open to the public—all U.S. citizens and nationals are eligible to apply.
Who Should Apply? Key Qualifications
To qualify, you must meet these minimum requirements by the closing date:
- J.D. degree from an accredited law school
- Active membership in good standing with any U.S. jurisdiction bar
- At least 3 years of post-J.D. legal experience (or other highly relevant experience)
Preferred qualifications that will make your application stand out:
- Hands-on civil litigation experience (trial or appellate)
- Strong analytical skills and ability to identify core issues quickly
- Excellent oral advocacy, legal writing, and research abilities
- Interpersonal skills for collaborating with courts, agencies, and staff
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-stakes environment with minimal supervision
- Proficiency with legal research tools, e-filing systems, and Microsoft Office
Additional conditions of employment:
- U.S. citizenship required
- Must pass a background investigation, drug test, credit/tax checks, and fingerprinting
- Residency: Live in the Middle District of North Carolina or within 25 miles
- Selective Service registration (if applicable)
- No bargaining unit status; not supervisory
Veterans are encouraged to apply—while there’s no formal points system, preference is considered positively.
How to Apply for This Federal Attorney Position
Applications must be submitted through USAJOBS.gov. Prepare these required documents:
- Resume (limited to 2 pages—include detailed employment history with dates, hours worked, duties, and accomplishments)
- Writing sample (20 pages or less)
- List of three professional references
- Completed online occupational questionnaire
Optional but recommended: Cover letter highlighting your fit, and veterans’ preference documentation (e.g., DD-214, SF-15).
Submit early—qualified candidates will be reviewed by an attorney interview panel, with invitations extended for interviews.
For questions, contact: Carole Smith Phone: (336) 332-6306 Email: carole.smith@usdoj.gov Address: U.S. Attorney’s Office, Middle District of North Carolina, 101 S. Edgeworth St., 4th Floor, Greensboro, NC 27401
Why Join the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Middle District of North Carolina?
Working as an AUSA offers unparalleled professional growth, the chance to uphold the rule of law, and a comprehensive federal benefits package, including:
- Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays
- Health insurance options
- Life insurance
- Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
- Potential for telework in other DOJ roles (though not for this position)
Federal service provides stability, purpose, and the opportunity to contribute to justice for all Americans.
If you’re ready to defend the United States in federal court and advance your legal career, don’t miss this opening. Visit the official listing now and apply before the deadline:
Apply Now on USAJOBS: Assistant United States Attorney (Civil) – Greensboro, NC