Become a Foreign Affairs Specialist with the U.S. Air Force at the Pentagon
Are you looking to make a significant impact on global security? The Department of the Air Force is currently seeking a highly skilled Foreign Affairs Specialist to work at the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia. This role offers the unique opportunity to bridge the gap between U.S. foreign policy and international armaments cooperation. If you have the expertise to navigate complex international agreements and the leadership skills to manage multi-functional teams, this could be the career step you have been waiting for.
Job Responsibilities
As a Foreign Affairs Specialist, your daily contributions will be vital to the Air Force's international mission. Key responsibilities include:
- Analyzing policy directives (such as AECA) and their impact on international cooperation.
- Advising SAF/IA leadership on opportunities and potential impediments to security programs.
- Negotiating and managing complex international agreements (IA) with allied governments.
- Determining the most effective collaboration vehicles for international projects, such as Foreign Military Sales.
- Ensuring compliance with U.S. statutes and international financial protocols.
Comparison of Requirements
| Requirement Type | Detail |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
| Experience | Min. 1 year of specialized experience at GS-13 |
| Education | Relevant degree or 24 semester hours in related disciplines |
| Clearance | Must hold or be able to maintain Top Secret clearance |
| Testing | Must pass mandatory drug testing (TDP) |
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet specific federal qualification standards. These include a combination of specialized experience and, in some cases, specific educational background in fields like international law, political science, or economics. You must also commit to obtaining the DoD Security Cooperation Workforce Certification within the required timeframe after hiring.
Salary Overview
This position is structured within the General Schedule (GS) pay scale at the GS-14 grade. The current annual salary range for this location is $143,913 to $187,093 per year.
Benefits
Working for the federal government provides a comprehensive compensation package, including:
- Competitive medical and insurance options.
- The Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), which is a retirement savings and investment plan.
- Federal pension benefits.
- Generous paid time off.
- Opportunities for continuous professional development.
Application Tips
- Format Matters: Your resume is restricted to two pages. Ensure it is concise and highlights your most relevant experience.
- Detail Your Work: Be sure to list your hours worked per week and specific dates of employment for every role listed.
- Use the Tool: Utilize the official USAJOBS questionnaire to fully explain how your experience maps to the requirements.
- Proofread: Double-check that your resume is formatted with at least a 10pt font and is fully legible.
Serving as a Foreign Affairs Specialist at the Pentagon is an opportunity to contribute directly to the Air Force's global vision. By aligning U.S. defense capabilities with international partners, you will play a crucial role in maintaining national security. Apply today through the official USAJOBS portal to embark on this prestigious career path.
Why This Foreign Affairs Specialist Job Matters
Shape the future of global defense as a Foreign Affairs Specialist at the Pentagon. Join the Department of the Air Force and influence international security cooperation at the highest levels.
Foreign Affairs Specialist Job Overview
The Department of the Air Force is seeking a dedicated Foreign Affairs Specialist to work at the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia. In this role, you will perform high-level analysis of international armaments cooperation, national disclosure policies, and security assistance programs. You will serve as a strategic advisor to leadership, navigating complex international agreements and acquisition management to ensure alignment with U.S. foreign policy objectives.
Requirements for Foreign Affairs Specialist
- U.S. Citizenship
- Must pass initial and periodic drug testing as a Testing Designated Position (TDP)
- Must obtain and maintain DoD Security Cooperation Workforce Certification within specified timeframes
- Minimum of one year of specialized experience at the GS-13 grade level or equivalent
- Must meet the basic OPM qualification standards for the 0130 Foreign Affairs Series (Degree or equivalent combination of education/experience)
- Must maintain 'good standing' in the DoD Security Cooperation Workforce Certification Program
- Active Top Secret security clearance required
Preferred Qualifications for Foreign Affairs Specialist
- Demonstrated mastery of U.S. foreign policy objectives and alliance structures
- Expertise in DoD and Air Force acquisition policies related to international programs
- Experience managing complex, multi-functional international projects
- Proven ability to provide expert briefings to senior executive leadership
- Experience negotiating international agreements with foreign government representatives
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal health, dental, and vision insurance programs
- ✓Generous retirement benefits, including the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching
- ✓Paid time off, including federal holidays, annual leave, and sick leave
- ✓Flexible telework opportunities
- ✓Professional development and continuous learning incentives
💡 How to Apply Foreign Affairs Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Foreign Affairs Specialist Job
- Log in or create an account on USAJOBS.
- Review the full announcement and prepare your two-page resume.
- Submit your resume, application questionnaire, and required supporting documents (such as transcripts or SF-50s).
- Ensure all documents clearly reflect your full name and hours worked per week.
- Submit your application through the portal by the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to two pages; longer resumes will be removed from consideration.
- Ensure your resume includes employment dates (month/year) and hours worked per week for each position.
- Highlight specific experience related to the Arms Export Control Act (AECA) or ICRD&A if applicable.
- If you are a current or former federal employee, ensure you attach the correct SF-50 documentation.
- Double-check your application status in your USAJOBS dashboard after submission.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the security clearance requirement for this role?
This position requires a Top Secret security clearance.
Is this position eligible for telework?
Yes, this position is eligible for telework, depending on mission requirements.
What is the page limit for the resume?
The resume must not exceed two pages. Exceeding this limit will result in your application being removed from consideration.
What is the closing date for this application?
*A: The application must be submitted by September 9, 2026, at 11:59 PM ET.*
Is relocation assistance offered?
*A: Relocation assistance is available for this position.*
Job from Hq Usaf And Support Elements
The mission of the United States Air Force is to fly, fight, and win in air, space, and cyberspace. This vision relies on the core competencies of developing our Airmen, integrating operations, and leveraging advanced technology. The Department of the Air Force operates under the values of integrity, service, and excellence, fostering a collaborative environment where professionals can contribute to national security and international stability.