Career Opportunity: International Relations Officer at the U.S. Department of Labor

Are you looking to apply your expertise in international relations and labor policy to a mission that protects workers on a global scale? The Department of Labor (DOL) is currently accepting applications for an International Relations Officer (GS-14) within the Bureau of International Labor Affairs (ILAB). This is a unique opportunity to shape U.S. policy in the intersection of international trade, labor rights, and economic development.

Job Responsibilities

As an International Relations Officer, your daily duties will be both complex and rewarding. Key responsibilities include:

Policy Formulation: Reviewing multilateral development bank loans to ensure they align with labor standards and advising the U.S. Department of Treasury.
Global Monitoring: Analyzing labor rights, law, and practices within the context of foreign trade agreements.
Strategic Engagement: Representing the agency in interagency and international working groups as a spokesperson for U.S. labor policy.
Technical Assistance: Designing and evaluating strategies to implement international cooperation programs that improve working conditions.
Technical Writing: Preparing in-depth reports, project plans, and memorandums for senior leadership.

Qualification Requirements

To qualify for this GS-14 position, candidates must meet specific requirements:

Requirement Type	Detail
Education	24 semester hours in international law, political science, economics, or related humanities.
Experience	1 year at the GS-13 level performing labor-related international work.
Citizenship	U.S. Citizenship is strictly required.
Clearance	Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive federal salary ranging from $143,913 to $187,093 per year. Beyond the salary, the DOL provides a comprehensive federal benefits package, including:

Retirement: Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
Health: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
Work-Life Balance: Generous annual leave, sick leave, and federal holidays.
Flexibility: Telework options based on agency and management requirements.

Application Tips

Strict Formatting: Your resume must be two pages or less. Submissions exceeding this limit will not be considered.
Detail Matters: Be specific with your work history. Include the month, year, and number of hours worked per week for each entry.
Use the Resources: Utilize the USA Hire Applicant Resource Center to prepare for required competency assessments.
Stay Current: Ensure all your documents (like your latest SF-50) are current and clearly reflect your highest grade and series.

This role is ideal for experienced professionals ready to make a tangible impact on the international labor landscape. If you possess the required specialized experience and a passion for public service, we encourage you to submit your application package before the closing date. Help the U.S. Department of Labor continue its vital mission of empowering workers everywhere.

Why This International Relations Officer Job Matters

Shape the future of global labor standards and trade policy with the U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of International Labor Affairs (ILAB).

International Relations Officer Job Overview

The Office of Trade and Labor Affairs (OTLA) is seeking a dedicated International Relations Officer (GS-14) to join our team in Washington, D.C. In this pivotal role, you will analyze international labor issues, influence trade policy, and represent the U.S. government on the world stage. You will work closely with multilateral development banks, international unions, and federal stakeholders to ensure that global economic strategies align with core international labor standards.

Requirements for International Relations Officer

Must be a U.S. citizen.
Must meet the basic educational requirement: 24 semester hours in international relations, economics, political science, history, law, or related social sciences, or equivalent professional experience.
Must possess at least one year of specialized experience at the GS-13 level or equivalent.
Must pass a background investigation for a Secret security clearance.
Must pass pre-employment drug screening.
Must submit a resume limited to two pages per the May 2025 Merit Hiring Plan.
Must provide an SF-50 if currently or previously employed in the federal government.

Preferred Qualifications for International Relations Officer

Expert knowledge of multilateral development bank lending processes as they relate to labor standards.
Strong background in monitoring and analyzing international labor rights and trade-related economic policy.
Proven success in building relationships with international stakeholders, trade federations, and federal government partners.
Expertise in drafting and negotiating policy objectives for international development and trade agreements.
Advanced ability to provide technical guidance and training to diverse global audiences.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Federal health, vision, and dental insurance programs.
✓Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) participation.
✓Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching contributions.
✓Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
✓Flexible telework options in accordance with agency policy.
✓Opportunities for professional development and career growth.
✓Transit and commuting benefits.

💡 How to Apply International Relations Officer Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for International Relations Officer Job

Create or update your profile on the official USAJOBS website.
Prepare a resume that specifically highlights your GS-13 level experience and keep it strictly under two pages.
Click the apply button on the USAJOBS portal and follow the prompts.
Certify and submit your application on the DOL-specific site.
Complete any required USA Hire assessments within the specified timeframe.
Upload all required supporting documents, including transcripts and SF-50 forms, before the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume includes dates (month/year) and hours worked per week for every position listed.
Preview the vacancy questions early to ensure your resume clearly demonstrates your qualifications for each competency.
Double-check your document uploads; ensure they are not password protected and are under the 5MB size limit.
Complete the application well before the 11:59 PM ET deadline to account for potential system delays.
Use the 'Track this application' feature in your dashboard to stay updated on your status and assessment requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a remote work position?

No, this is not a remote position. The selectee must report to the Washington, D.C. office, though the role is eligible for telework as determined by management.

What happens if my resume is over two pages?

Per the May 2025 Merit Hiring Plan, resumes exceeding two pages will result in an ineligible application status.

Do I need to submit an official transcript?

You must submit unofficial transcripts during the application process. If you are selected, you will be required to provide official transcripts before receiving a firm job offer.

Is a degree in law required?

No, a degree in law is one of several qualifying fields. You may qualify through a combination of education in the social sciences or specific international affairs experience.

How do I track my application?

You can monitor your progress through the USAJOBS Applicant Dashboard and by clicking on the hiring agency's Talent Acquisition System.

Job from Bureau Of International Labor Affairs

The Office of Trade and Labor Affairs (OTLA) functions under the U.S. Department of Labor to ensure that international trade and economic initiatives support the fair treatment of workers. By monitoring foreign labor practices and engaging with global partners, the OTLA plays a crucial role in defending worker rights and raising standards worldwide. Working for the DOL means joining an organization committed to service, safety, and fairness in the workplace.