Launch Your Career as a Foreign Affairs Officer with the Department of State
The U.S. Department of State stands at the forefront of American diplomacy, managing the complex web of relationships that define our global standing. We are currently recruiting a motivated and highly analytical Foreign Affairs Officer to join our team in the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs. This is a unique opportunity for professionals dedicated to international relations, policy development, and global problem-solving.
Job Responsibilities
As a Foreign Affairs Officer, your daily duties will be both challenging and rewarding:
- Policy Formulation: You will draft recommendations and research papers that shape U.S. engagement.
- Research and Analysis: Conduct deep-dive research into international issues to provide timely briefings to leadership.
- Collaboration: Engage in interagency coordination to ensure alignment on critical foreign policy matters.
- Operational Oversight: Monitor and evaluate program effectiveness and manage funding requirements.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must demonstrate a solid foundation in academic and professional experience.
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Education | Bachelor's or higher in International Law, Political Science, or related fields |
| Experience | 1 year of specialized experience at the GS-09 level |
| Citizenship | U.S. Citizenship is strictly required |
| Clearance | Must be able to obtain/maintain a Top Secret clearance |
Salary Overview
This position is offered within the GS-11 grade range, with a competitive salary spanning $85,447 to $111,087 per year. The salary is determined based on qualifications and federal pay tables for the Washington, D.C. area.
Benefits
Employees of the Department of State enjoy a comprehensive benefits package designed for the modern workforce, including health insurance, generous retirement options, and significant paid time off.
Application Tips
- Respect the Page Limit: Your resume must be two pages or fewer.
- Assessment Readiness: Prepare for the competency-based assessment by reviewing the core skills mentioned (writing, problem-solving, and communication).
- Detail is Key: Quantify your experience wherever possible to show the impact of your work.
Serving as a Foreign Affairs Officer is more than just a job; it is a commitment to representing the United States on the global stage. If you possess the passion, intellect, and drive to handle the complexities of international diplomacy, we encourage you to apply today.
Why This Foreign Affairs Officer Job Matters
Shape the future of U.S. diplomacy with the Department of State. Use your analytical expertise to drive policy and strengthen international relations within the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs.
Foreign Affairs Officer Job Overview
The Department of State is seeking a dedicated Foreign Affairs Officer to join the Office of Pakistan Affairs. In this pivotal role, you will perform essential professional research, support the formulation of foreign policy, and manage complex portfolios that directly impact U.S. international relations. This position is based in Washington, D.C., and serves as a key contributor to regional stability and strategic engagement.
Requirements for Foreign Affairs Officer
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Bachelor's or graduate degree in international law, political science, economics, history, or related fields.
- Completion of 24 semester hours in relevant social sciences or 12 hours in statistics/quantitative methods.
- At least 52 weeks of specialized experience at the GS-09 level or equivalent.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.
- Successful passage of a drug test.
- Compliance with time-in-grade requirements for current federal employees.
- Submission of a resume limited to two pages.
Preferred Qualifications for Foreign Affairs Officer
- Experience managing and coordinating complex foreign affairs portfolios.
- Proven track record in developing policy recommendations for international matters.
- Strong background in interagency coordination and multilateral negotiations.
- Advanced graduate education (Ph.D. level) in a related discipline.
- Superior written and verbal communication skills for briefing and analysis.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs.
- ✓Generous retirement plans including the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Paid federal holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
- ✓Opportunities for telework based on supervisory approval.
- ✓Ongoing professional development and training.
- ✓Work-life balance initiatives.
💡 How to Apply Foreign Affairs Officer Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Foreign Affairs Officer Job
- Register or sign in to your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that specifically highlights your relevant experience and education, ensuring it does not exceed two pages.
- Submit your resume along with all required supporting documentation, such as transcripts or SF-50s.
- Complete the mandatory online competency-based assessment.
- Review your application for accuracy before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Your resume must be exactly two pages or less; longer resumes will be disqualified.
- Be specific about your hours worked and start/end dates in your work history.
- Set aside at least two hours for the online assessment; it includes timed sections.
- Ensure your transcripts are ready if you are using education to qualify.
- For current federal employees, include your most recent SF-50 clearly showing your grade and promotion potential.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the security clearance requirement for this role?
The position requires a Top Secret security clearance, as it is classified as Critical-Sensitive.
Can I request an accommodation for the assessment?
Yes, you may request an accommodation for additional time on timed sections by submitting medical documentation through the assessment platform.
Is this position eligible for telework?
Yes, situational telework may be permitted with supervisory approval.
What happens after I apply?
Your application will be assessed for qualifications, and top candidates will be referred to the hiring manager for potential interviews.
Is telework available?
Situational telework is allowed, pending supervisor approval.
Job from Department Of State Headquarters
The Department of State Headquarters is responsible for the conduct of U.S. foreign relations. Within the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs (SCA), the Office of Pakistan Affairs focuses on maintaining strategic partnerships and addressing regional challenges. Working here means collaborating with intelligence officials, diplomats, and policy experts to advance American interests.