Requirements
Conditions of employment
- Be a U.S. citizen and accept assignments based on the needs of the FS.*
- Be able to obtain/maintain a Top Secret/SCI clearance.
- Be able to meet the minimum medical qualification standard.
- Be able to meet the supplemental physical qualification standards.
- Be able to obtain a favorable Suitability Review Panel determination.**
- Be at least 20 years old at application and 21 years old to be appointed.
- Be appointed prior to age 60 (preference eligible veterans excepted).***
- Possess and maintain a valid/current U.S. Driver’s License.
At the time of application, candidates must demonstrate a strong command of the English language to include grammar, spelling, and punctuation. A Foreign Service Specialist must consistently display a high standard of written and spoken English.
Qualifications
Specialized Experience:
In addition to meeting the education requirement, candidates must meet the experience requirements below for the following grade levels:
- FP-06 0-2 yrs of experience
- FP-05 3-4 yrs of specialized experience; or Masters in one of the required degrees and at least one year of specialized experience
- FP-04 4+ yrs of specialized experience; or PhD in one of the required degrees and at least one year of specialized experience
Candidates for this position should have academic achievements and/or job-related experiences that reflect the following knowledge and skills. For experienced candidates, showing progressively increasing levels of performance and responsibility is required.
Examples of specialized experience include but are not limited to:
- Knowledge of networks and cyber security assessments and testing.
- Understanding of the electromagnetic spectrum, and RF interrelationships and characteristics as it relates to the design and operation of electronic and electromagnetic systems.
- Hands-on experience in the operation and use of electronic instrumentation such as multimeters, oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzer, sound pressure level meters, time-delay reflectors, network analysis and similar equipment that may be applied to test, certify, and troubleshoot electrical, electronic, mechanical, electromechanical and computer systems.
- Knowledge and hands-on familiarity of computer systems, computer security, and familiarity with operating systems, hardware platforms, and networks.
- Ability to read, interpret, create electrical and electromechanical schematics and architectural drawings, including electrical/mechanical building systems drawings.
- Knowledge of project management to include root cause analysis, project planning and process management.
- Applying technical security policies, guidance, and standards to risk analysis and risk management.
- Managing a budget to include cost analysis, logistics and travel requirements.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)
The Department bases its hiring decisions on extensive job analysis research to identify the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities and other attributes that lead to successful performance in this position. Hiring officials will evaluate each candidate’s education, work experience, and other qualifications against these KSA-based criteria. For experienced candidates, showing progressively increasing levels of performance and responsibility is desirable.
Knowledge of Engineering and Technology
- Knowledge of engineering principles and practices, including relevant disciplines such as electronics and the electromagnetic spectrum.
- Knowledge of information technology equipment, networks and network protocols, and basic cybersecurity concepts.
- Ability to use and understand computer programs and apply risk analysis to technical systems and operations.
Technical Skills
- Ability to read, interpret, and develop schematic diagrams, electrical drawings, and building plans.
- Skill in selecting, operating, and maintaining electronic equipment and related tools.
- Ability to use and, when necessary, help develop test equipment and diagnostic tools.
- Skill in surveying, evaluating, and documenting technical conditions or systems.
- Ability to use computer software for analysis, documentation, and reporting.
Project Management Skills
- Ability to plan and organize projects, including defining scope, timelines, and deliverables.
- Skill in developing action plans and setting schedules, priorities, and goals.
- Ability to identify and solve problems using sound judgment and structured analysis.
- Skill in making informed decisions under time and information constraints.
People Management and Interpersonal Skills
- Ability to supervise, motivate, and lead employees or project teams.
- Skill in fostering teamwork and collaboration across diverse groups.
- Ability to resolve conflicts and maintain productive relationships.
- Skill in delivering effective customer service to internal and external stakeholders.
- Ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse cultural and professional backgrounds.
Intellectual and Communication Skills
- Ability to think logically and objectively, analyze complex problems, and apply sound judgment to evaluate solutions.
- Skill in adjusting to changing priorities and meeting tight deadlines.
- Ability to present technical findings clearly and concisely to non-technical audiences, both orally and in writing.
- Skill in preparing reports, briefings, and other written products that are accurate, well-organized, and tailored to the audience.
- Ability to conduct research, manage information and knowledge resources, and pursue continuous self-development.
Professionalism and Independence
- Ability to work effectively with others, build cooperation, and earn the confidence of co-workers, supervisors, subordinates, and non-technical stakeholders.
- Ability to work with minimal supervision and accept responsibility for outcomes and decisions.
International Career Readiness
- Willingness and ability to pursue and sustain an international career.
- Ability to respond flexibly to worldwide assignment opportunities based on organizational needs.
- Ability to manage the demands of frequent global travel, including working in varied and sometimes challenging environments.
Upon completing orientation and initial training in Washington, D.C., employees are assigned to two sequential tours, typically two years each, directed by the Department. These entry-level assignments may be overseas or in the United States. After the initial two tours, employees have greater choice as to the location, length, and substantive nature of assignments.
Essential Physical Requirements
Some essential functions of this position are physically demanding. Candidates must be able to perform these duties with or without reasonable accommodation. This position requires the ability to:
Vision and Hearing
- See objects at near and far distances, and when required, at night or in low-light conditions.
- Hear speech and other sounds clearly, including low volume sounds or sounds in noisy environments.
Speech and Communication
- Speak clearly so others can understand, including when addressing groups.
Mobility and Access
- Walk moderate distances.
- Access workstations and vehicles.
- Climb stairs, ladders, and other inclines.
- Crawl under, around, or over objects as needed.
Strength, Flexibility, and Dexterity
- Lift, push, pull, carry, and balance objects, with or without assistance.
- Climb ladders while maintaining balance.
- Bend, stretch, stoop, twist, and reach.
- Manipulate small objects with hands and fingers.
Endurance
- Perform physical movements repeatedly or continuously.
- Stand for extended periods.
- Take frequent or extended trips by plane or car.
- Maintain attention and concentration for extended periods and work long or irregular hours.
Environmental Tolerance
- Tolerate exposure to heat, cold, noise, or pollution while performing job duties.
- A physical exam of each candidate offered a position is required to ensure that the candidate meets the essential physical and medical requirements necessary to perform the essential functions of the job and can meet the required minimum medical qualification standards. In addition, candidates must have vision that is correctable to 20/20 in one eye and 20/40 in the other, no color blindness, adequate night vision, and good peripheral vision.
- Note: Lasik surgery and implantable lens are permitted. Surgical and follow-up reports will be required. Candidates must also have good hearing with no loss of greater than 30 decibels at 500, 1000, or 2000, Hz level.
- Note: Use of hearing appliances is not allowed. The musculoskeletal system should have no deformities, diseases, or limiting conditions that would interfere with the performance of duties.
- Note: The medical exam is required only after a candidate has successfully passed the assessments. It is not part of the initial application package.
Education
Candidates must have a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree, Master of Science (MS), or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Engineering, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, or Physics, from a school with at least one program accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), or evidence of successfully passing the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) examination or any other written test required for professional registration by a state, District of Columbia, Guam, or Puerto Rico engineering licensure board. A current registration as an Engineer Intern (EI), Engineer in Training (EIT), or licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE) by any state, the District of Columbia, Guam, or Puerto Rico may also be used to fulfill the education requirement. Submit evidence of licensure at time of application, if applicable.
Candidates entering their junior year in the fall of 2026, in an engineering, computer science, cybersecurity, or physics program or beginning a master’s degree program in one of those disciplines beginning in the fall of 2026 may apply as long as the school has at least one program accredited by ABET. Degrees must be granted by December 31, 2028.
Education from a program or institution within the United States must be accredited at the time of program completion by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
Foreign education acquired outside of any state of the U.S., the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, a Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands, or any territory or possession of the U.S. must be evaluated by a member organization of one of the two national associations of credential evaluation services (NACES or AICE) in order to be given credit towards qualification.
For further information on the evaluation of foreign education, please refer to the Office of Personnel Management, Foreign Education section, and the U.S. Department of Education. The U.S. Department of State neither endorses nor recommends any individual evaluation service.
Please refer to the Required Documents Section on how to submit the required educational documentation for this position.
Additional information
*EMPLOYMENT ELIGIBILITY VERIFICATION PROGRAM (E-Verify) – Verification of employment eligibility in the United States is required.
U.S. law requires companies to employ only individuals who may legally work in the U.S. – either U.S. citizens, or foreign citizens who have the necessary authorization. This agency utilizes E-Verify to compare information from the Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, to data from U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Social Security Administration (SSA) records to confirm employment eligibility. If the employee’s information does not match DHS and/or SSA records, the employee is given an opportunity to resolve the problem. If eligibility cannot be verified, employment will be terminated.
**The U.S. Department of State Suitability Review Panel and standards are defined in Chapter 3 of the Foreign Affairs Manual. For more information please visit: https://fam.state.gov/
***For more information about Veteran’s Preference and how it is applied in the selection process, please visit the link.
No candidate will be considered who has previously been separated from the Foreign Service under sections §607, §608, or §610 or §612 of the Foreign Service Act of 1980, as amended, or who resigned or retired in lieu of separation under these provisions. In addition, no candidate will be considered who has previously been separated for failure to receive a career appointment under section §306 of the Foreign Service Act of 1980, as amended, or who resigned or retired in lieu thereof.
A Foreign Service Specialist separated pursuant to Sections 306, 607, 608, 610, 612, may not re-apply to be in the same skill code but may apply for another skill code or to be a Foreign Service Generalist. A Foreign Service Generalist separated pursuant to Sections 306, 607, 608, 610, 612 may not re-apply as a generalist but may apply to a Foreign Service Specialist vacancy.
Executive Branch agencies are barred by 5 U.S. Code 3303 as amended from accepting or considering prohibited political recommendations and are required to return any prohibited political recommendations to sender. In addition, as mandated by 5 U.S. Code 3110, relatives of federal employees cannot be granted preference in competing for these employment opportunities.
It is the policy of the Federal government to treat all employees with dignity and respect and to provide a workplace that is free from discrimination and retaliation, in accordance with the standards set forth by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.
The U.S. Department of State provides reasonable accommodation to candidates with disabilities. Procedures vary by test type, and all candidates must request reasonable accommodations in advance. For more information visit Requesting Reasonable Accommodations. Decisions for granting reasonable accommodations are made on a case-by-case basis.
Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits include health and medical coverage, federal retirement benefits, and paid leave. Overseas benefits include tax-free housing and tax-free education allowance for dependent children between K-12 overseas, and an unrivaled opportunity to see the world and experience different cultures.
The salary range listed is extracted from the Foreign Service Overseas and Washington pay scales. SEOs are hired at FP-04, FP-05, or FP-06 grade based on education and experience. The starting step is determined in part by the highest education level achieved and specialized experience beyond minimum qualifications. Individuals already working in government positions may be appointed based on their highest previous rate as a federal employee. For information on salary, please visit Foreign Service Salaries - Careers
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How you will be evaluated
You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.
Candidates will be evaluated on their total background including experience, education, awards, training, and self-development as it relates to the position. Selection for this position will be made only from among candidates possessing the best qualifications. Part-time work experience will be prorated.
The Department of State reserves the right to cancel and/or disqualify any application or to withhold test results when, in its judgment, a testing irregularity occurs. Testing irregularities include, but are not limited to, candidate misconduct, plagiarism, and/or misrepresentation of material fact, including in narrative descriptions of accomplishments. The Department may verify content provided by candidates by contacting references. It also conducts extensive background checks of work and education history of candidates offered employment.
Selected candidates will complete approximately twelve months of specialized training in addition to orientation. The selected candidate must complete the Technical Security Training Path (TSTP) in Springfield, VA. This specialized initial training provides the candidate with the knowledge and skills to operate, install, maintain, and repair technical security systems at post. The second phase of this training is at the Interagency Training Center in Fort Washington, Maryland. Failure to successfully complete any portion of the TSTP is grounds for separation.
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