Advance Your Career: Foreign Affairs Specialist with the Department of the Air Force

Are you looking to bridge the gap between policy and international operations? The Department of the Air Force is currently seeking a highly motivated professional to serve as a Foreign Affairs Specialist. This position offers a unique chance to work within the Office of the Deputy Under Secretary of the Air Force, International Affairs (SAF/IA) in Arlington, Virginia. You will play a critical role in supporting the United States' international security goals.

Job Responsibilities

In this role, you will be at the forefront of international engagement, including:

Administering Security Cooperation and Security Assistance reviews and country-specific documentation.
Managing Foreign Military Sales (FMS) activities to ensure they meet mission goals.
Organizing high-level conferences and developing materials for international trips.
Serving as a technical subject matter expert for the Air Force on security cooperation issues.

Comparison of Potential Roles

Feature	Foreign Affairs Specialist	Generic Analyst
Scope	Global/International	Organizational
Focus	Security Cooperation	Data/Operations
Networking	International Partners	Internal Stakeholders

Requirements

To be considered for this position, candidates must meet specific criteria:

Education: A bachelor's degree (or 24 semester hours) in international law, political science, history, or a related social science.
Experience: One year of specialized experience at the GS-11 level or equivalent.
Clearance: Ability to obtain a Secret security clearance.

Salary Overview

The salary range for this GS-12 position is $102,415 to $133,142 per year, commensurate with qualifications and federal pay tables.

Benefits

Comprehensive Health and Life Insurance.
Federal Retirement System (FERS) participation.
Telework flexibility.
Paid Vacation and Sick Leave.

Application Tips

Keep your resume under two pages.
Clearly define employment dates and hours worked.
Ensure your transcripts are ready to be uploaded.

This role is an ideal step for those passionate about international diplomacy and military cooperation. Apply by September 10, 2026, to be considered for this opportunity.

Why This Foreign Affairs Specialist Job Matters

Launch a dynamic career at the heart of international diplomacy and global defense with the Department of the Air Force.

Foreign Affairs Specialist Job Overview

The Department of the Air Force is seeking a dedicated Foreign Affairs Specialist to join the Deputy Under Secretary of the Air Force, International Affairs (SAF/IA) in Arlington, Virginia. This pivotal role involves shaping and managing Title 22 and Title 10 Security Cooperation and Security Assistance programs. You will serve as a key advisor, ensuring that international engagements and Foreign Military Sales (FMS) activities align with global Air Force objectives. This is an exceptional opportunity to influence strategic policy and foster vital partnerships with allies across the globe.

Requirements for Foreign Affairs Specialist

U.S. Citizenship.
Completion of a relevant degree (or equivalent coursework) in international relations, political science, economics, history, or related fields.
At least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 level.
Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
Submission of academic transcripts.
Meeting federal time-in-grade requirements for internal candidates.
Successful completion of a drug screening.

Preferred Qualifications for Foreign Affairs Specialist

Direct experience with Security Cooperation and Security Assistance administration.
Expertise in Foreign Military Sales (FMS) policies and procedures.
Strong understanding of military culture, protocol, and high-level engagement support.
Proficiency in analytical and evaluative methods to track program effectiveness.
Experience in cross-functional team collaboration and international trip planning.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health insurance and retirement plans.
✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
✓Work-life balance with telework eligibility.
✓Generous leave policies and paid federal holidays.
✓Public service loan forgiveness eligibility.

💡 How to Apply Foreign Affairs Specialist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Foreign Affairs Specialist Job

Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a two-page resume highlighting your relevant experience and hourly work history.
Complete the online application questionnaire.
Gather and upload all required documents, including transcripts and applicable SF-50 forms.
Review your application for completeness and submit before the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Keep your resume strictly to two pages or less to ensure it is reviewed.
Explicitly state the hours worked per week and specific dates of employment in your resume.
Review the AF Civilian Employment Eligibility Guide to confirm your specific hiring path requirements.
Double-check that all uploaded documents are clearly legible and include your full name.
Submit early to allow for potential system delays or document processing times.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary mission of this role?

You will manage and support the Department of the Air Force's Security Cooperation and Security Assistance programs by developing policy guidance and providing expert advice to internal and external partners.

Is a security clearance required?

Yes, this position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.

Are there specific resume length requirements?

Yes, your resume must not exceed two pages. Resumes exceeding this limit will not be considered.

Job from Hq Usaf And Support Elements

The Department of the Air Force is committed to global vigilance, reach, and power. Through its core competencies of developing airmen, advancing technology, and integrating operations, the agency ensures the security of the nation. Employees here operate under the values of integrity, service, and excellence.