Become a Leader in U.S. Foreign Policy: Supervisory Foreign Affairs Officer Opportunity

The U.S. Department of State is at the forefront of global diplomacy, and the Bureau of Political-Military Affairs (PM) is vital to that mission. We are currently accepting applications for a Supervisory Foreign Affairs Officer to join our team in Washington, D.C. This role is not just a job; it is a chance to influence international security, manage high-stakes foreign assistance, and guide a team of professionals dedicated to creating a more secure world. If you possess the leadership skills and policy expertise to navigate the complexities of international relations, we encourage you to apply.

Job Responsibilities

In this role, you will serve as a key figure within the Office of Weapons Removal and Abatement. Your primary duties will include:

Program Leadership: Designing and implementing strategic plans for foreign assistance and explosive hazard reduction.
Policy Oversight: Advising senior bureau leadership through formal memoranda, background papers, and in-person briefings.
Team Supervision: Assigning tasks, managing performance, and fostering a collaborative team environment.
Strategic Coordination: Collaborating with embassies and host governments to secure political support for vital regional initiatives.

Requirements

To be considered for this position, you must:

Be a U.S. citizen.
Meet Time-in-Grade requirements (52 weeks at the GS-13 level).
Provide a resume that does not exceed two pages.
Demonstrate one year of specialized experience at the GS-13 level.
Complete the required online assessments.

Comparison of Qualification Paths

Path	Criteria	Document Needed
Academic	Master’s or Bachelor’s in International Law/Relations	Official Transcripts
Professional	4+ years of relevant foreign affairs work	Employment Records
Federal Internal	52 weeks at GS-13 level	Latest SF-50

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary range of $143,913 to $187,093. Beyond the salary, employees enjoy a robust federal benefits package including comprehensive health insurance, federal retirement programs, and generous paid time off. The Department also emphasizes continuous learning and flexible work arrangements like telework.

Application Tips

Watch the Resume: The two-page limit is strictly enforced. Focus on the most impactful achievements.
Be Data-Driven: When describing your experience, quantify your impact whenever possible.
Prepare for Assessments: The online assessment is timed. Find a quiet space and ensure your internet connection is stable before starting.
Review Documents: Ensure all SF-50s and transcripts are clearly labeled and attached before the deadline.

This role is an ideal step for a seasoned professional looking to transition into a high-impact leadership position within the federal government. With a focus on global stability and collaborative policy work, you will find this career path both challenging and deeply rewarding. Apply today to start your journey with the Department of State.

Why This Supervisory Foreign Affairs Officer Job Matters

Advance global security and shape U.S. foreign policy as a Supervisory Foreign Affairs Officer at the Department of State.

Supervisory Foreign Affairs Officer Job Overview

The U.S. Department of State is seeking an experienced, mission-driven professional to join the Bureau of Political-Military Affairs, specifically the Office of Weapons Removal and Abatement (PM/WRA). In this senior-level role, you will lead high-impact initiatives aimed at neutralizing explosive hazards and preventing the illicit proliferation of small arms worldwide. This is an exceptional opportunity to manage complex international programs, guide policy development, and provide critical leadership to professional staff in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Requirements for Supervisory Foreign Affairs Officer

Must be a U.S. citizen.
Must meet Time-in-Grade requirements (52 weeks at the GS-13 level or equivalent).
Bachelor's or graduate degree in an international or social science discipline, or 4+ years of specialized experience.
One year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-13 in the Federal service.
Submission of a two-page maximum resume.
Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.
Completion of mandatory online assessments.

Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Foreign Affairs Officer

Proven track record in managing foreign assistance programs, grants, or cooperative agreements.
Superior communication skills, with experience drafting memoranda and briefing papers for senior-level leadership.
Demonstrated ability to coordinate complex foreign policy activities across multiple regional bureaus.
Strong supervisory skills, including work planning and employee development.
Capacity to manage competing priorities under tight deadlines and sensitive conditions.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Federal health, dental, and vision insurance options.
✓Comprehensive retirement planning (FERS).
✓Paid vacation, federal holidays, and sick leave.
✓Professional development and training opportunities.
✓Telework flexibility (subject to supervisory approval).
✓Collaborative and mission-driven organizational culture.

💡 How to Apply Supervisory Foreign Affairs Officer Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Supervisory Foreign Affairs Officer Job

Review the full vacancy announcement on USAJOBS.
Prepare a resume strictly limited to two pages.
Register for an account and initiate the application process.
Complete the mandatory online competency-based assessments.
Upload all required supporting documents (transcripts, SF-50s, performance appraisals).
Submit your final application package before the deadline.

💡 General Tips

Keep your resume concise; any resume exceeding two pages will be automatically rejected.
Be specific about your hours per week and employment dates to ensure accurate qualification matching.
Test your technical setup early to ensure you have enough time for the timed online assessments.
If you require a reasonable accommodation for the assessment, initiate that request immediately.
Save your progress frequently within the application portal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the page limit for the resume?

The resume must be exactly two pages or fewer. Longer resumes will be deemed ineligible.

Is a security clearance required?

Yes, this position requires a Top Secret clearance due to its critical-sensitive nature.

Can I use foreign education for this position?

Yes, but you must provide proof that your foreign degree is equivalent to an accredited U.S. institution.

Job from Department Of State Headquarters

The Department of State is the nation’s lead foreign policy agency. We operate in a fast-paced, intellectually stimulating environment where employees advance American interests through diplomacy and development. Employees at the Department enjoy unparalleled opportunities for personal and professional growth while contributing to the safety and prosperity of the American people.