Advance Your Career as a Supervisory Foreign Affairs Officer at the U.S. Department of State
The U.S. Department of State is widely recognized as the nation’s premier foreign policy agency. Working here offers more than just a job; it provides an opportunity to contribute directly to the safety, economic prosperity, and diplomatic influence of the United States. We are currently recruiting a Supervisory Foreign Affairs Officer (GS-14) to lead critical programs within the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL/WHP).
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will be responsible for:
- Team Leadership: Supervising Civil Service and Foreign Service staff, managing training, and overseeing performance.
- Policy Advising: Providing expert counsel to senior Department leadership regarding international narcotics policy.
- Program Direction: Directing interagency strategies to combat illicit trafficking and strengthen rule of law institutions.
- Budgeting: Formulating complex budget proposals to ensure the effective allocation of resources.
- Diplomacy: Representing the agency in bilateral and multilateral engagements.
Comparison: Requirements vs. Preferred Qualities
| Feature | Requirement | Preferred |
|---|---|---|
| Education | Bachelor's Degree in relevant field | Advanced degree or specialized quant studies |
| Experience | 1 year at GS-13 level equivalent | Experience in international policy advisory |
| Skills | Communication & Leadership | Expert Negotiation & Budgeting |
Requirements
To be considered, candidates must be U.S. citizens and meet the specific educational or professional experience requirements outlined in the vacancy. You must demonstrate specialized experience equivalent to the GS-13 level in the federal service, including experience in narcotics policy, budget formulation, and contract/grant management.
Salary and Benefits
The salary range for this position is $143,913 – $187,093 per year, commensurate with qualifications. Employees also enjoy access to a robust benefits package, including comprehensive health insurance, federal retirement programs, and generous paid time off.
Application Tips
- Respect the Limits: Your resume must not exceed two pages. Longer resumes will result in immediate disqualification.
- Be Quantitative: Clearly highlight your budget and supervisory experience using specific metrics.
- Prepare for Assessment: Set aside at least two hours for the online competency assessment.
This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of international security and U.S. foreign relations. If you are a results-oriented leader looking to make a meaningful difference, we encourage you to apply through the official USAJOBS platform today.
Why This Supervisory Foreign Affairs Officer Job Matters
Lead critical international narcotics and law enforcement programs at the heart of U.S. foreign policy. Shape global security strategies in this high-impact Supervisory Foreign Affairs Officer role.
Supervisory Foreign Affairs Officer Job Overview
The U.S. Department of State's Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL/WHP) is seeking a dynamic leader to serve as a Supervisory Foreign Affairs Officer in Washington, D.C. In this pivotal position, you will guide a diverse team of Civil Service and Foreign Service professionals, oversee the development of law enforcement and rule of law institutions, and manage efforts to combat illicit narcotics trafficking. This is a high-stakes role requiring strategic vision, budgetary expertise, and the ability to navigate complex interagency environments to protect U.S. domestic interests.
Requirements for Supervisory Foreign Affairs Officer
- U.S. Citizenship
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-13 level or equivalent
- Bachelor's or graduate degree in international law, political science, economics, history, or related fields (or equivalent combination of education and experience)
- Pass a drug test
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance
- Current federal employees must meet 52-week time-in-grade requirements
- Submission of a resume limited to two pages
- Submission of college transcripts if qualifying based on education
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Foreign Affairs Officer
- Proven experience advising senior leadership on international policy
- Strong background in drafting contracts, grants, or interagency agreements
- Demonstrated ability to formulate and justify complex budget proposals
- Advanced supervisory and team management skills
- Superior negotiation and written/oral communication abilities
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal Salary
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance plans
- ✓Federal retirement benefits including FERS
- ✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays
- ✓Professional development and training opportunities
- ✓Flexible telework arrangements where applicable
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Foreign Affairs Officer Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Foreign Affairs Officer Job
- Register and sign in to your USAJOBS account.
- Upload a resume limited to exactly two pages containing relevant details.
- Complete the online competency-based assessment.
- Attach all required documents, including transcripts or SF-50s if applicable.
- Submit your final application package before the closing date of September 11, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit to avoid disqualification.
- Tailor your resume to clearly demonstrate specialized experience at the GS-13 level.
- Start the online assessment early as it includes timed sections and requires dedicated time.
- Double-check your supporting documentation, especially if applying under a non-competitive authority.
- Be specific in your job descriptions; the hiring team does not make assumptions about your previous duties.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the security clearance level required for this role?
This position requires a Top Secret clearance and is designated as Critical-Sensitive.
Is telework an option for this position?
Yes, situational telework agreements may be permitted subject to supervisory approval.
Can I submit a resume longer than two pages?
No, resumes exceeding two pages will be deemed ineligible and excluded from consideration.
Job from Department Of State Headquarters
The Department of State serves as the lead agency for U.S. foreign policy. Employees operate in a fast-paced environment where they navigate international relations, advocacy, and assistance. Our workforce is our greatest asset, reflecting the diverse talents and educational backgrounds of the nation. As an employer, we foster leadership, innovation, and professional growth.