Launch Your Career in National Security as a Foreign Affairs Officer

Are you passionate about the intersection of technology and diplomacy? The U.S. Department of State is looking for strategic thinkers to join the Bureau of Emerging Threats (ET). If you have a background in foreign affairs, policy analysis, or national security, this role offers a unique opportunity to serve your country at the highest level.

Job Responsibilities

As a Foreign Affairs Officer in the Office of Threat Assessment (ET/TA), your primary goal is to act as an early warning system for the United States. Key duties include:

Horizon Scanning: Identifying emerging threats where technology impacts national security.
Analytical Methodologies: Developing tools and criteria to assess threats objectively.
Policy Implementation: Translating threat assessments into actionable mitigation strategies.
Stakeholder Engagement: Building strategic relationships across the U.S. government, academia, and the private sector.
Executive Briefing: Preparing materials for senior Department leadership to inform high-level decision-making.

Requirements

To be eligible for this position, you must meet the following criteria:

Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship is required.
Education: A degree in international law, political science, history, or related fields (or equivalent specialized experience).
Experience: Applicants must demonstrate specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 or GS-13 level.
Clearance: Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.
Documentation: All relevant transcripts and professional documents must be submitted to the online portal.

Comparison: GS-11 vs. GS-13

Feature	GS-11 Level	GS-13 Level
Complexity	Standardized assignments	Highly complex/Strategic
Supervision	Closer supervision	Independent work
Focus	Skill application	Strategic foresight/Policy development

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive salary range of $85,447 to $158,322 per year, commensurate with your grade level and experience.

Benefits

The U.S. Department of State provides a comprehensive federal benefits package, including:

Health insurance, dental, and vision coverage.
Retirement and pension plans.
Opportunities for domestic and international career growth.
Flexible telework arrangements.

Application Tips

Watch the Length: Keep your resume to exactly two pages. The system is strict.
Supporting Data: Clearly articulate your work experience with specific dates and hours to prove your eligibility.
Assessments: Give yourself ample time to complete the competency-based tests. They are timed and critical to your final score.

Serving as a Foreign Affairs Officer at the Bureau of Emerging Threats is more than just a job; it is a vital mission to ensure the security of our nation. With your analytical skills and commitment to diplomacy, you can help shape the future of U.S. national security. Apply today to begin your journey.

Why This Foreign Affairs Officer Job Matters

Shape the future of national security by bridging the gap between cutting-edge technology and global diplomacy as a Foreign Affairs Officer with the Department of State.

Foreign Affairs Officer Job Overview

The U.S. Department of State is seeking talented professionals to join the Bureau of Emerging Threats (ET), Office of Threat Assessment (ET/TA). This office serves as a critical early warning system for the Department, identifying near-term national security risks. By collaborating with partners across government, industry, and academia, the successful candidates will develop high-level strategies, draft threat assessments, and support policy interventions that protect national interests.

Requirements for Foreign Affairs Officer

U.S. Citizenship.
Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.
Must meet time-in-grade and time after competitive appointment requirements.
Bachelor's or graduate degree in international law, international relations, political science, economics, history, or related fields (or equivalent combination of education and experience).
Submission of academic transcripts if qualifying via education.
Resume must not exceed two pages; longer resumes will be disqualified.
Completion of online competency-based assessments.

Preferred Qualifications for Foreign Affairs Officer

Experience in horizon scanning or strategic foresight to identify technology-related threats.
Proven ability to translate complex data into actionable policy interventions.
Strong background in drafting analytical reports for senior leadership.
Demonstrated skill in building strategic partnerships across interagency or private sector environments.
Deep understanding of the nexus between emerging technologies and national security.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive Federal Salary and benefits package.
✓Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.
✓Telework flexibility.
✓Comprehensive health and retirement plans.
✓The chance to work with a Forbes-recognized top employer.

💡 How to Apply Foreign Affairs Officer Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Foreign Affairs Officer Job

Register for an account on USAJOBS.
Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two pages.
Complete the online competency-based assessment battery (allow 2 hours).
Upload all required supporting documents, including transcripts and SF-50s if applicable.
Submit your application before 11:59 p.m. ET on the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume includes specific dates (month/year) and hours worked per week.
Do not exceed the two-page limit; extra pages will result in automatic disqualification.
Be precise in your assessment responses; ensure your resume clearly supports every claim made.
If you require a reasonable accommodation for the timed assessment, request it through the application portal before the deadline.
Save your progress periodically, but ensure final submission is completed well before the cutoff time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a security clearance required?

Yes, this position requires a Top Secret security clearance, as the work involves special-sensitive, high-risk national security information.

What is the page limit for the resume?

The resume must be two pages or fewer. Any application with a resume exceeding this limit will be deemed ineligible.

Can I qualify with a combination of education and experience?

Yes, applicants may combine graduate-level coursework with relevant professional experience, provided the total percentage equals 100% of the qualification requirements.

What is the security clearance level?

You must be eligible for a Top Secret clearance.

Can I apply if I don't have a graduate degree?

Yes, if you meet the alternative experience requirements or a combination of relevant coursework and experience.

Job from Department Of State Headquarters

The U.S. Department of State is the nation's lead foreign policy agency. Named one of America's Best Employers by Forbes, the Department values innovation, leadership, and global perspective. Working here means advancing the safety and prosperity of the American people through a dynamic career that spans the globe.