Become a Foreign Affairs Specialist with the NNSA: A Career in National Security
Are you ready to use your expertise to shape the future of global security? The National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) is looking for talented, driven individuals to serve as Foreign Affairs Specialists. This is a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of international policy, technology, and defense within the Department of Energy.
Job Responsibilities
As a Foreign Affairs Specialist, your daily contributions will have a global impact. Your core duties include:
- Project Management: Steering the implementation of nonproliferation programs to ensure national security goals are met.
- Budgeting & Planning: Developing annual program budgets and maintaining project metrics.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Building and sustaining relationships with national laboratories, contractors, and international partners.
- Strategic Advising: Providing expert recommendations to senior leadership on nonproliferation policy.
Requirements
Candidates must possess specialized experience and meet the specific educational standards set for the 0130 job series.
Comparison of Qualifications
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Education | 24+ semester hours in Intl Relations, Political Science, Economics, etc. |
| Experience | 1+ year at GS-12 / NQ-02 level or equivalent. |
| Clearance | Q Access Authorization (Must be able to obtain). |
| Assessment | Mandatory USA Hire Assessment score above the cut-off. |
Salary Overview
This position offers a highly competitive salary commensurate with the responsibility of the role.
- Annual Salary: $121,785 – $187,093
- Grade: NQ pay band
Benefits
Employees of the NNSA enjoy a robust suite of federal benefits, including:
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Generous leave policies, including paid federal holidays and vacation time.
- Access to the Federal Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) and pension programs.
Application Tips
- Tailor Your Resume: Explicitly mention duties and accomplishments that mirror the specialized experience listed in the announcement.
- Foreign Education: If you have degrees from abroad, ensure you submit an accreditation evaluation before the closing date.
- The Assessment: Don't rush your application. Be prepared to set aside dedicated time to complete the USA Hire assessments after submission.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I update my application after it is submitted? A: Yes, you can edit your application via your USAJOBS account as long as the announcement is still open.
Q: What is the security clearance requirement? A: This position requires a Q Access Authorization due to the sensitivity of the work involving nuclear nonproliferation.
This role is for those who are passionate about national security and international cooperation. If you are looking to advance your career while contributing to a vital mission, apply for the Foreign Affairs Specialist position today. We look forward to reviewing your application.
Why This Foreign Affairs Specialist Job Matters
Protect the nation's future by securing the world's most dangerous technologies—the NNSA is seeking dedicated Foreign Affairs Specialists to join our critical nonproliferation mission.
Foreign Affairs Specialist Job Overview
The National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA), part of the U.S. Department of Energy, is recruiting for Foreign Affairs Specialists within the Office of Defense Nuclear Nonproliferation (DNN). This role is vital to our mission of defending the homeland from nuclear and radiological threats. You will serve as a project manager, working to prevent the spread of weapons-usable materials and technology while collaborating with international and domestic partners to advance national security objectives.
Requirements for Foreign Affairs Specialist
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Must meet the Foreign Affairs (0130) series basic educational requirements (24 semester hours in international relations, political science, economics, history, or related fields).
- Minimum of one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 or NQ-02 pay band.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Q Access Authorization security clearance.
- Willingness to undergo and pass drug testing.
- Completion of the required USA Hire Assessment.
- Submission of a complete application package including a detailed resume and relevant transcripts.
Preferred Qualifications for Foreign Affairs Specialist
- Demonstrated expertise in bilateral or multilateral initiative support.
- Proven experience in federal program budget development and project execution.
- Strong background in interagency coordination and outreach.
- Experience in providing policy recommendations to senior leadership.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary range.
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
- ✓Federal retirement benefits including the Thrift Savings Plan.
- ✓Paid federal holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
💡 How to Apply Foreign Affairs Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Foreign Affairs Specialist Job
- Click the Apply Online button in the official USAJobs portal.
- Complete the online questionnaire and attach your resume and necessary transcripts.
- Submit your application package before the 11:59 PM ET deadline on the closing date.
- Check your email for instructions regarding the USA Hire Assessment if prompted.
- Complete the assessment within 48 hours of notification.
- Track your application status via your USAJOBS account.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes specific dates (month/day/year) and hours worked per week for every position listed.
- Clearly articulate how your experience matches the specialized experience requirements mentioned in the job post.
- If you have foreign education, include an accredited evaluation report; failure to do so will disqualify your application.
- Set aside at least 3 hours for the USA Hire assessment, as it is a critical component of the evaluation process.
- Double-check that all required documents (transcripts, DD-214, etc.) are attached before submitting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of the DNN office?
The Office of Defense Nuclear Nonproliferation works to prevent the proliferation of weapons-usable nuclear materials and technology, ensuring national security through a multi-layered defense strategy.
Is telework available for this position?
This position is not currently listed as telework-eligible. Please consult the agency during the interview process for the most current workplace policies.
What happens if I need a testing accommodation for the assessment?
You must request a reasonable accommodation during the initial application process. Documentation must be provided and approved before you begin the USA Hire assessment.
Job from National Nuclear Security Administration
The National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) is a semi-autonomous agency within the U.S. Department of Energy. The Office of Defense Nuclear Nonproliferation (DNN) is the cornerstone of our mission, acting as the nation's shield against nuclear and radiological threats. By managing international partnerships and technical programs, we secure the world's most dangerous materials and deny adversaries access to proliferation-sensitive expertise.