Become a Foreign Affairs Officer at the U.S. Department of State
The U.S. Department of State plays a pivotal role in shaping global stability and prosperity. We are currently looking for a talented and experienced Foreign Affairs Officer to join our Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs (SCA). If you have a passion for international relations, commercial diplomacy, and strategic economic policy, this is an opportunity to make a tangible impact.
Job Responsibilities
As a Senior Foreign Affairs Officer, your primary duties will include:
- Developing policy proposals that promote commercial engagement in South and Central Asia.
- Coordinating with interagency partners to secure U.S. economic interests.
- Providing expert advice to senior officials on commercial priorities.
- Cultivating partnerships with industry leaders, technology firms, and development banks.
Requirements
To be considered for this GS-14 position, you must meet specific criteria:
- Specialized experience equivalent to the GS-13 level.
- A degree in an international relations, political science, or related quantitative field.
- Ability to obtain a Top Secret security clearance.
- Adherence to a strict two-page resume limit.
Salary Overview
The salary range for this position is $143,913 to $187,093 per year, commensurate with federal pay scales and qualifications.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $143,913 - $187,093 |
| Location | Washington, D.C. |
| Security Clearance | Top Secret |
| Work Schedule | Full-time/Federal GS |
Benefits
Employees of the Department of State enjoy competitive federal benefits, including:
- Robust healthcare and retirement options.
- Opportunities for professional development.
- Work-life balance through telework and leave programs.
Application Tips
Ensure your application stands out by focusing on your specific achievements in economic or commercial policy. Remember that resumes over two pages will be disqualified. Take the online assessment seriously as it is a key component of the hiring process.
This role offers a unique chance to influence the economic trajectory of a critical global region. Apply today to advance your career and serve your country at the Department of State.
Why This Foreign Affairs Officer Job Matters
Shape the future of global commerce: Join the Department of State as a Foreign Affairs Officer and influence policy across South and Central Asia.
Foreign Affairs Officer Job Overview
The Department of State is seeking a dedicated Foreign Affairs Officer to join the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs (SCA). In this role, you will provide critical, high-level advice on commercial diplomacy, shaping U.S. economic and foreign policy in one of the world's most dynamic regions. You will bridge the gap between interagency counterparts and the private sector, ensuring that commercial priorities—including infrastructure, energy, and emerging technologies—are effectively integrated into national strategy.
Requirements for Foreign Affairs Officer
- U.S. citizenship is required.
- Must meet time-in-grade requirements (52 weeks at the next lower grade).
- Minimum of one year of specialized experience at the GS-13 level or equivalent.
- Completion of a bachelor's or graduate degree in an approved field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.
- Submission of a resume limited to exactly two pages.
- Pass a drug test.
- Successful completion of online competency-based assessments.
Preferred Qualifications for Foreign Affairs Officer
- Deep expertise in U.S. economic and commercial foreign policy.
- Proven experience working with South and Central Asian economic and commercial infrastructure, specifically in energy, AI, and telecommunications.
- Strong track record in interagency coordination and policy development.
- Established relationships with domestic and international private sector stakeholders and multilateral development banks.
- Advanced strategic planning and communication skills.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance plans.
- ✓Competitive federal retirement pension system.
- ✓Generous paid time off, including federal holidays and sick leave.
- ✓Flexible work arrangements, including potential for situational telework.
- ✓Unparalleled professional development and training opportunities.
- ✓Work-life balance initiatives.
💡 How to Apply Foreign Affairs Officer Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Foreign Affairs Officer Job
- Register or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Submit your two-page resume highlighting relevant experience and hours worked.
- Complete the required online competency-based assessments.
- Upload all necessary supporting documents, such as transcripts and SF-50s.
- Review your submission for accuracy before the 11:59 p.m. ET deadline on the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to two pages; longer resumes will be automatically rejected.
- Be specific and clear when describing your professional experience; the agency does not make assumptions.
- Set aside at least 2 hours to complete the online assessment in one sitting.
- Ensure your SF-50s clearly show your tenure, grade, and series if you are a current federal employee.
- Apply early to allow time for technical troubleshooting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this Foreign Affairs Officer role?
The role focuses on commercial diplomacy within the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs, advising on economic security and building relationships with private sector entities, NGOs, and multilateral banks.
Is telework available for this position?
Yes, situational telework agreements may be permitted depending on supervisory approval.
How long is the assessment process?
You should set aside at least two hours for the competency-based assessments, though many candidates complete them sooner.
Job from Department Of State Headquarters
The Department of State is the nation’s lead foreign policy agency. Our employees work tirelessly to advance American interests, protect citizens, and foster economic growth through diplomacy and advocacy. Joining the Department means becoming part of a prestigious organization that values innovation, leadership, and professional growth.