Assistant United States Attorney (Criminal Division-Immigration)

Hiring Organization: USAO Eastern District of California

Hiring Office: Criminal Division (Immigration), Sacramento and Fresno Offices

Attorney Appointment Type: Attorney Permanent

Job ID: 26-CAE- -AUSA

Location: Sacramento and Fresno Offices, CA, United States

Application Deadline: Wednesday, September 30, 2026

Job Description

The United States Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of California is seeking an attorney to serve as an Assistant U.S. Attorney in the Criminal Division with assignment to the Immigration Unit. The Assistant U.S. Attorney will represent the United States, its agencies, and employees in immigration‑related litigation, including defending habeas corpus, mandamus, and Administrative Procedure Act challenges, and prosecuting affirmative immigration enforcement actions in federal district court. Potential to transition to other criminal or civil practice areas as workload and office needs allow.

Responsibilities

Responsibilities will increase and assignments will become more complex as your training and experience progress. The assistant attorney will be expected to conduct legal research, draft pleadings, correspond on day‑to‑day matters, and represent the United States in court, including use of investigative techniques and case management from the initial investigative stage through trial.

Qualifications

Applicants must possess a J.D. Degree and be an active member in good standing of the bar (any U.S. jurisdiction). United States citizenship is required.

Preferred Qualifications

Ideal candidates have at least three to five years of experience litigating cases with substantial responsibility for discovery, trial, and appeals. They must demonstrate quick analytical ability, articulate critical issues accurately, have superior oral and writing skills, strong research and interpersonal abilities, and good judgment. Candidates should possess excellent communication and courtroom skills, work effectively with other attorneys and support staff, and function in a highly demanding environment. Experience with multi‑agency task forces, federal grand jury practice, electronic surveillance, and asset seizure is desirable.

Salary

Sacramento: $85,075 to $197,100 (includes 29.76% locality pay)

Fresno: $77,135 to $180,986 (includes 17.65% locality pay)

Application Process

Applications must be submitted online through the USAJobs portal at The announcement remains open until filled or September 30, 2026. Applicants must meet all qualification requirements upon the closing date.