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Associate Attorney Civil Rights Jobs in Salem, OR

Associate Attorney Civil Rights information

See Salem, OR salary details

$46.2K

$108.7K

$173.4K

How much do associate attorney civil rights jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate attorney civil rights in Salem, OR is $108,705.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,400.00 and $130,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by an Associate Attorney in Civil Rights law, and how can they be addressed?

Associate Attorneys in Civil Rights law often encounter complex cases that require extensive legal research and a deep understanding of both federal and state statutes. Balancing a high caseload while maintaining meticulous attention to detail in case preparation is a frequent challenge. Additionally, these attorneys may face emotionally charged situations, as civil rights cases often involve sensitive issues and vulnerable clients. Building strong organizational skills, seeking mentorship from experienced colleagues, and prioritizing self-care can help address these challenges and enable attorneys to provide effective advocacy.

What does an Associate Attorney in Civil Rights do?

An Associate Attorney in Civil Rights assists with legal cases that involve the protection and enforcement of individual rights guaranteed by the Constitution and laws, such as freedom from discrimination or violations of due process. They conduct legal research, draft documents, and represent clients in court under the supervision of senior attorneys. Their work often includes supporting litigation, participating in investigations, and advocating for clients who have experienced civil rights violations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Associate Attorney in Civil Rights, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Attorney in Civil Rights, you need a Juris Doctor degree, bar admission, strong legal research and writing skills, and a deep understanding of civil rights laws. Familiarity with legal research databases (such as Westlaw or LexisNexis), case management software, and e-discovery tools is typically required. Exceptional analytical thinking, persuasive communication, and a passion for social justice are standout soft skills for this role. These abilities are essential for effectively advocating on behalf of clients, handling complex litigation, and advancing civil rights protections.
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Assistant Attorney General (Civil Litigation Section)

Assistant Attorney General (Civil Litigation Section)

Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife

Salem, OR • Hybrid

$9.0K - $17K/mo

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Initial Posting Date:

06/26/2026

Application Deadline:

07/30/2026

Agency:

Department of Justice

Salary Range:

$9,063 - $17,597

Position Type:

Employee

Position Title:

Assistant Attorney General (Civil Litigation Section)

Job Description:

Trial Division, Civil Litigation Section

The Trial Division of the Oregon Department of Justice (DOJ) is seeking to hire multiple experienced civil litigators to lead often complex civil cases as permanent, fulltime Assistant Attorneys General in the Civil Litigation Section. This is an opportunity to serve the people of Oregon, advance the public interest, and take ownership of challenging cases that frequently involve both high dollar values and significant policy implications for the state. The attorneys selected for this recruitment will join a collaborative team of skilled trial lawyers who represent the state, its agencies, officers, and employees in state and federal courts.

If you are motivated by public service and want to focus on litigation-especially trying meaningful cases-this is an exceptional role. Our attorneys regularly develop and try cases from start to finish and are entrusted with shaping trial strategy, building evidentiary records, and advocating in court. Litigators with backgrounds in landuse, condemnation, contracts, employment, tort, civil rights, or administrative law will find abundant opportunities to deepen their experience. The Civil Litigation Section strives to ensure each attorney has a diverse, engaging, and intellectually challenging caseload tailored to their interests and strengths.

Questions about this position may be directed to Craig Johnson, AttorneyinCharge, Civil Litigation Section, at (503) 9474700.

Office Location/Remote Work

This position may be based in Portland or Salem. DOJ's Trial Division supports worklife balance while maintaining a dynamic litigation practice. Our flexible hybrid model allows attorneys to work remotely while still engaging closely with colleagues and clients. Civil Litigation Section attorneys spend at least one day a week in the office, with additional inperson time as needed for trials, hearings, or the demands of specific cases. Attorneys who prefer to work more regularly in the office are always welcome.

Required

  • At least four (4) years of experience litigating in state or federal court.

  • A strong interest in jury trials and a readiness to take appropriate cases to trial while exercising sound judgment about when settlement best serves the public interest.

  • Experience drafting and arguing motions to dismiss and motions for summary judgment in state or federal court.

  • Ability to balance frequent court appearances, an active motions practice, and excellent client communication.

  • Strong legal research, analysis, and writing skills.

  • High levels of professionalism, judgment, and collegiality, including the ability to work with thoughtful and missiondriven clients dedicated to serving the people of Oregon.

  • Willingness and availability to travel throughout the state for court appearances and trials.

Requested

  • Active membership in good standing with the Oregon State Bar prior to appointment, or reciprocity in progress at the time of application.

  • Experience negotiating and resolving civil claims.

  • Civil jury trial experience.

  • Experience taking and defending depositions in state or federal civil actions.

Application Process

Follow the "Apply" link above and complete the application online and all supplemental questions;

  • Attach your resume;

  • Attach your cover letter (detailing how you meet the job requirements); and

  • Attach your writing sample suitable for assessing analytical and writing ability. A writing sample is not needed from attorneys currently working at the Oregon Department of Justice at the time of application. However, a copy may be requested at a later date if needed.

This OAJA-represented position will be filled at either the Assistant Attorney General or Senior Assistant Attorney General level, salary range $9,063.00 - $17,597.00 per month, depending primarily on years of legal practice experience and other factors. Employees who are Public Employee Retirement System (PERS) participating members will have their base salary increased by 6.95% and pay a 6% employee contribution to PERS; the salary range noted reflects base salary only. For a partial list of our benefits, you can learn here.

ALL APPLICANTS: You will only have one opportunity to upload the required resume and cover letter. Drag and drop both resume and cover letter into Workday when prompted to upload your resume. If you are concerned that one or both requested documents didn't attach to your application, if you need an accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), have questions, or need assistance with the application process, please contact doj.recruitment@doj.oregon.gov. Any materials emailed will be associated on your behalf if received before the posting deadline.

CURRENT STATE EMPLOYEES: Login to Workday using your state-issued login and apply via the Jobs Hub Worklet located on your home page. Using a private account disrupts the hiring process for all internal candidates.

The Department of Justice

The Mission of the Oregon Department of Justice is to serve state government and to support safe and healthy communities throughout Oregon by providing essential justice services.Its over 1,600 employees in ten divisions, includingnearly 400 lawyers, are dedicated to the rule of law and serving the people of Oregon and its government.

The Attorney General and our ten divisions are dedicated to:

  • Providing ethical, independent and high quality legal services to state government;

  • Safeguarding consumers from fraud and unfair business practices;

  • Fighting crime and helping crime victims;

  • Advocating for vulnerable children;

  • Supporting families through the collection of child support;

  • Enforcing environmental protections;

  • Defending the civil rights of all Oregonians;

  • Pursuing justice and upholding the rule of law.

Working for the Department of Justice
Assistant Attorneys General, on behalf of the Attorney General, represent the State of Oregon and state-elected and appointed officials, agencies, boards and commissions in most civil and many criminal proceedings. The Department offers a broad range of opportunities for attorneys to work on significant and complex issues that face our state and make a difference to the citizens of Oregon while providing unparalleled career satisfaction and professional prospects.


Conduct Expectations
The role of the Oregon Department of Justice is to provide justice and uphold the rule of law. Employees of the Department are required to meet the highest standards of professional conduct and ethics while on the job, and also to maintain those same high standards when taking actions in their personal lives that could reflect on the Department.

Diversity is a core value of the Department of Justice and the department's Trial Division. We are working to build and maintain a diverse, inclusive and equitable work environment. Every employee expands our diversity through varied experiences and perspectives, and by contributing to the range of ways to understand and communicate with one another, identify challenges, and work cooperatively.

Candidates from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply. The Department of Justice is an equal opportunity employer, does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, ethnicity, veteran, gender, sexual orientation, religion, age or disability, and is committed to workplace diversity.

For additional information regarding working for the Department of Justice and application assistance, click HERE.

Oregon Department of Justice
1162 Court St NE
Salem OR, 97301
DOJ.recruitment@doj.oregon.gov

Phone: (503) 947-4328
Fax: (503) 373-0367