Become a Program and Policy Analyst: Join the Bureau of Counterterrorism

Are you looking to make a direct impact on national security? The U.S. Department of State is currently hiring a Program and Policy Analyst within the Bureau of Counterterrorism. This position offers a unique opportunity to shape foreign assistance programs that protect the U.S. homeland and its interests across the globe. If you have a background in international relations, policy analysis, and program management, this is your chance to join a mission-critical team in the heart of Washington, D.C.

Job Responsibilities

As a Program and Policy Analyst, you will be responsible for a dynamic range of tasks, including:

Portfolio Management: Developing, planning, and coordinating foreign assistance activities across specific global regions.
Policy Shaping: Conveying counterterrorism program outcomes to senior officials to influence high-level decision-making.
Program Oversight: Ensuring compliance with legislative and State Department rules regarding monitoring and evaluation.
Threat Analysis: Tracking regional operational threats and analyzing how they influence U.S. foreign policy.

Comparison: Role Expectations

Feature	Expectation
Level	GS-13 (Full Performance)
Focus	Counterterrorism & Foreign Assistance
Clearance	Top Secret required
Education Substitute	None allowed

Requirements

To qualify for this role, you must demonstrate extensive professional experience. Candidates must have served 52 weeks at the GS-12 grade level or equivalent. Furthermore, your background must clearly reflect:

Experience overseeing the performance of contracts or grants.
Knowledge of how to evaluate foreign assistance program effectiveness.
A proven track record of developing policy recommendations.

Salary Overview

This position is classified at the GS-13 level, with a competitive annual salary range of $121,785 to $158,322, depending on federal pay scales and qualifications.

Benefits

Working for the Department of State provides more than just a paycheck. Employees receive access to top-tier health, dental, and vision plans, along with the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and a robust Thrift Savings Plan. You will also benefit from a generous leave policy and a collaborative, mission-driven professional environment.

Application Tips

Mind the Page Limit: The resume restriction of two pages is strictly enforced. Any resume exceeding this length will be excluded from the candidate pool.
Align Your Narrative: Use your resume to provide concrete examples of the skills mentioned in the job assessment.
Document Everything: Ensure all your SF-50s and performance appraisals are up-to-date and included in your submission.

Serving as a Program and Policy Analyst at the Department of State is a high-stakes role that demands expertise and a commitment to public service. If you are ready to apply your analytical skills to global counterterrorism efforts, apply before the November 9, 2026 deadline.

Why This Program And Policy Analyst Job Matters

Shape global security policy and drive critical counterterrorism initiatives at the heart of the U.S. Department of State.

Program And Policy Analyst Job Overview

The U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Counterterrorism, Office of Programs, is seeking a dedicated Program and Policy Analyst to play a pivotal role in national security. This GS-13 position involves planning, implementing, and overseeing foreign assistance activities designed to protect the homeland and U.S. interests abroad. You will monitor global threats, manage regional portfolios, and work across government agencies to align programs with strategic national security objectives.

Requirements for Program And Policy Analyst

Must be a U.S. citizen or national.
Completion of one year of specialized experience at the GS-12 grade level or equivalent.
Must satisfy Time-In-Grade requirements (52 weeks at the next lower grade level).
Must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.
Must undergo a mandatory drug test.
Must submit a resume limited to exactly two pages.

Preferred Qualifications for Program And Policy Analyst

Strong background in political science, international relations, or security policy.
Proven experience overseeing contracts, grants, or interagency agreements.
Demonstrated ability to evaluate the effectiveness of foreign assistance programs.
Experience providing actionable program recommendations to senior-level officials.
Advanced proficiency in oral and written communication for high-level briefings.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive Federal Salary
✓Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
✓Federal Retirement Program (FERS)
✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style)
✓Paid Federal Holidays and Leave
✓Potential for Situational Telework

💡 How to Apply Program And Policy Analyst Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Program And Policy Analyst Job

Register or sign in to your USAJOBS account.
Upload a two-page resume detailing relevant experience, education, and hours worked.
Complete the online competency-based assessment.
Upload required documentation, including SF-50s and performance appraisals where applicable.
Submit your application by the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Keep your resume strictly to two pages to remain eligible.
Be precise with your work history, including specific month/year dates and hours worked per week.
Ensure your resume directly supports your responses to the online assessment questions.
Submit your application early to avoid last-minute technical issues.
Use the provided Help Desk contact for any technical difficulties before the deadline.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute education for the specialized experience?

No, for this GS-13 position, there is no substitute of education for the required specialized experience.

What happens if my resume is longer than two pages?

Resumes longer than two pages will be deemed ineligible and will not be considered further.

Is telework available?

Situational telework agreements may be permitted subject to supervisory approval.

What is the security clearance requirement?

This position requires a Top Secret security clearance.

Is the position telework eligible?

Yes, situational telework is possible, subject to supervisor approval.

Job from Department Of State Headquarters

The U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Counterterrorism is tasked with strengthening national security by creating, managing, and evaluating programs that deter terrorism. The Office of Programs, where this position is situated, identifies emerging threats and ensures that government resources are effectively directed toward international partnerships and stability. The Department prides itself on being a leader in diplomatic and security-based foreign assistance.