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Information Technology Specialist (INFO SEC/ NETWORK/ APPSW)
Summary
This serves as a public notice for the use of the Direct Hire Authority. The APPLY button is deactivated. Applications will not be accepted through this flyer. Interested applicants must follow the directions in the “How to Apply” section of this Direct Hire Authority flyer to be considered. This direct hire public notice is to gather applications that may or may not result in a selection. Notice of Result letters will not be sent to applicants who respond to this flyer.
This job is open to
Clarification from the agency
This direct hire public notice is to gather applications that may or may not result in a referral or selection.
Duties
As an IT Specialist (INFOSEC), at minimum you will:
- Ensures the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of systems, networks, and data through the planning, analysis, development, implementation, maintenance, and enhancement of information systems security programs, policies, procedures, and tools.
- Administers information technology (IT) principles, methods, and security products to protect and maintain the availability, integrity, confidentiality, and accountability of information system resources.
- Implements and advises on IT security policies and procedures to ensure the protection of information transmitted from installation using Local Area Networks (LAN), Wide Area Networks (WAN).
- Accomplishes risk analysis, security testing, and certification due to modifications or changes to computer systems.
BASIC REQUIREMENT
Applicants must have IT-related experience demonstrating each of the four competencies listed below.
- Attention to Detail – Is thorough when performing work and conscientious about attending to detail.
- Customer Service – Works with clients and customers (that is, any individuals who use or receive the services or products that your work unit produces, including the general public, individuals who work in the agency, other agencies, or organizations outside the Government) to assess their needs, provide information or assistance, resolve their problems, or satisfy their expectations; knows about available products and services; is committed to providing quality products and services.
- Oral Communication – Expresses information (for example, ideas or facts) to individuals or groups effectively, taking into account the audience and nature of the information (for example, technical, sensitive, controversial); makes clear and convincing oral presentations; listens to others, attends to nonverbal cues, and responds appropriately.
- Problem Solving – Identifies problems; determines accuracy and relevance of information; uses sound judgment to generate and evaluate alternatives, and to make recommendations.
Requirements
Conditions of Employment
- Incumbent will be subject to random drug testing.
- Successfully pass the E-Verify employment verification check. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, visit: www.dhs.gov/E-Verify/
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Completion of a Financial Disclosure (OGE-450) is required by this position.
- Incumbent may be required to carry a Government Furnished Equipment (GFE) cellular device and maintain a personal working cell/home telephone at all times.
- Overtime may be required.
- Status and non-status applicants selected under this authority are required to serve a mandatory one-year probationary period.
Qualifications
Applicants must meet all the required qualification requirements, including education, and any selective placement factors described below by the closing date of this announcement. If you are qualifying based on education OR if there are mandatory education requirements listed below, you MUST submit a copy of your college transcript with your application.
Must have IT-related experience demonstrating EACH of the four competencies listed below:
- Attention to Detail – Is thorough when performing work and conscientious about attending to detail.
- Customer Service – Works with clients and customers (that is, any individuals who use or receive the services or products that your work unit produces, including the general public, individuals who work in the agency, other agencies, or organizations outside the Government) to assess their needs, provide information or assistance, resolve their problems, or satisfy their expectations; knows about available products and services; is committed to providing quality products and services.
- Oral Communication – Expresses information (for example, ideas or facts) to individuals or groups effectively, taking into account the audience and nature of the information (for example, technical, sensitive, controversial); makes clear and convincing oral presentations; listens to others, attends to nonverbal cues, and responds appropriately.
- Problem Solving – Identifies problems; determines accuracy and relevance of information; uses sound judgment to generate and evaluate alternatives, and to make recommendations.
AND
Applicants applying for the GS-9 grade level must have at least 1 full year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-7 level in the Federal service which provided you with the particular knowledge, skills and abilities to perform the duties of the position.
Qualifying specialized experience must demonstrate the following:
- Developing policies and procedures to ensure information systems reliability and accessibility and to prevent and defend against unauthorized access to systems, networks, and data.
- Conducting risk and vulnerability assessments of planned and installed information systems to identify vulnerabilities, risks, and protection needs.
- Conducting systems security evaluations, audits, and reviews.
- Participating in network and systems design to ensure implementation of appropriate systems security policies.
- Assessing security events to determine impact and implementing corrective actions.
OR
Master’s or equivalent graduate degree or 2 full years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to a master’s degree or equivalent graduate degree.
Applicants applying for the GS-11 grade level must have at least 1 full year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-9 level in the Federal service which provided you with the particular knowledge, skills and abilities to perform the duties of the position.
Qualifying specialized experience must demonstrate the following:
- Knowledge of the customary approaches, techniques, and requirements appropriate to an assigned computer applications area or computer specialty area in an organization;
- Planning the sequence of actions necessary to accomplish the assignment where this entailed coordination with others outside the organizational unit and development of project controls; and
- Adaptation of guidelines or precedents to the needs of the assignment.
OR
Ph. D. or equivalent doctoral degree or 3 full years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to a Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree.
Applicants applying for the GS-12 grade level must Have at least 1 full year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 level in the Federal service which provided you with the particular knowledge, skills and abilities to perform the duties of the position.
Qualifying specialized experience must demonstrate the following:
- Experience in executing the Department’s mission and programs.
- Experience in keeping current with developments in IT management functions and procedures.
- Experience in using evaluations and analysis methodology.
- Experience in preparing clear, accurate, concise, logical, and coherent reports that portray the facts, emphasize the significant details and substantiate all recommendations and assertions made.
There is no substitute of education for specialized experience for the GS-12 position.
Applicants applying for the GS-13 grade level must have at least 1 full year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 level in the Federal service which provided you with the particular knowledge, skills and abilities to perform the duties of the position.
Qualifying specialized experience must demonstrate the following:
- Experience in using evaluation and analysis methodology.
- Experience in keeping current with developments in IT management functions and procedures.
- Experience in preparing clear, accurate, concise, logical, and coherent reports that portray the facts, emphasize the significant details and substantiate all recommendations made.
- Experience in making oral and written presentations, selling ideas, negotiating points of view and resolving conflicts.
There is no substitute of education for specialized experience for the GS-13 position.
Applicants applying for the GS-14 grade level must have at least 1 full year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-13 level in the Federal service which provided you with the particular knowledge, skills and abilities to perform the duties of the position.
Qualifying specialized experience must demonstrate the following:
- Experience in applying and interpreting IT systems security principles, concepts, and methods.
- Experience in establishing and maintaining the IT infrastructure protection environment.
- Experience in staying current with new and updated IT security developments.
- Experience in interpreting and applying project management principles and methods.
- Experience in coordinating the implementation of security programs across multiple platforms.
- Experience in establishing vulnerability reporting criteria.
There is no substitute of education for specialized experience for the GS-14 position.
Applicants applying for the GS-15 grade level must have at least 1 full year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-14 level in the Federal service which provided you with the particular knowledge, skills and abilities to perform the duties of the position.
Qualifying specialized experience must demonstrate the following:
- Experience in applying and interpreting advanced IT systems security principles, concepts, and methods.
- Experience in developing and interpreting policies, procedures and strategies governing the planning and delivery of services.
- Experience providing expert technical advice, guidance and recommendations.
- Experience in staying current with new and updated IT security and network developments.
- Experience in interpreting and applying project management principles and methods.
- Experience in coordinating the implementation of security programs and network operating systems across multiple platforms.
- Experience in establishing vulnerability reporting criteria.
There is no substitute of education for specialized experience for the GS-15 position.
Education
SUBSTITUTION OF EDUCATION FOR SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE:
For the GS-09 Position you may substitute education for specialized experience: You must have completed two full years of progressively higher-level graduate education, Master’s or equivalent graduate degree (You MUST submit transcripts to verify your claim).
For the GS-11 Position you may substitute education for specialized experience: You must have completed at least three full years of progressively higher-level graduate education or Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree (You MUST submit transcripts to verify your claim).
For the GS-12 Position: There is no substitution for experience at this grade level.
For the GS-13 Position: There is no substitution for experience at this grade level.
For the GS-14 Position: There is no substitution for experience at this grade level.
For the GS-15 Position: There is no substitution for experience at this grade level.
Foreign Service Diplomatic Technology Officer (FP 2885)
Summary
The U.S. Department of State is developing a rank-ordered list of eligible hires for a limited number of Diplomatic Technology Officer (DTO) vacancies based on the needs of the Department. Learn more about the Department and a career as a Foreign Service Specialist, please visit us at https://careers.state.gov.
There is more to joining the Foreign Service than just salary. Please refer to the Benefits section for more information on total compensation.
This job is open to
Clarification from the agency
Must be a U.S. citizen. Candidates should read the entire announcement to ensure they meet all requirements. Candidates may reapply one year after their most recent date of application submission for the same position. Candidates may not apply if a State Department Suitability Review Panel denied suitability in the last two years for any position, (except if the denial was for a DS Special Agent (SA) candidate whose denial was based solely on the unique requirements for SAs).
Duties
Foreign Service Diplomatic Technology Officers (DTO) are responsible for the Department’s Diplomatic Technology (DT) programs and systems world-wide.
The duties of DTO vary according to the size of the post and the requirements of the specific diplomatic mission. At various times, at posts around the world or in domestic locations, the following are some examples of the types of duties and responsibilities a DTO is expected to perform:
Customer Service Skills:
- Provide assistance to users of information management services (for example, by configuring and optimizing software).
- Train users in the use of new software applications, providing guidance and assistance with new or amended IT-related policies and procedures.
- Promote end-user involvement in technology and technical decision-making.
Information Technology Skills:
- Administer computer systems and manage system performance. Set up networks. Start up, operate, and shut down systems.
- Manage user access, train new personnel, identify and resolve problems, report, track and research incidents, counsel users, set up customer equipment, and replace equipment and parts.
- Manage and operate classified and unclassified client/server solutions, desktop systems, messaging solutions, web-based technology, database solutions, and virtual servers to support LAN/WAN.
- Manage telecommunication network services.
- Manage communications equipment, install cabling, provide circuits, support video conferencing, manage communications flow, coordinate with host country officials, and manage wireless communications and Wi-Fi programs.
- Manage voice communication services. Coordinate equipment provision, manage the telephone and radio programs, the personal mobile device program, and VoIP convergence devices.
Information Management Skills:
- Implement IT projects gathering requirements, designing solutions, and assisting with development.
- Acquire IT products and services, test solutions, deploy products, and maintain IT procurement and inventory.
- Manage cloud requirements and support collaboration tools and IT Shared Services efforts.
- Manage pouch programs, diplomatic post office, and telephone operator program.
- Supervise locally employed staff system administrators, mailroom employees, telephone technicians, radio technicians and switchboard operators.
- Manage work assignments and individual performance.,
- Serve as part of the embassy or consulate management team and perform additional duties outside of normal information resource management activities as determined by embassy or consulate management or as dictated by special circumstances.
- Support emergency planning and response and manage emergency wireless communications.
- Ensure emergency destruction capability.
- Maintain alternate processing site.
- Manage emergency digital communications.
- Keep current with specialty, gain and maintain certifications.
Information Security:
- Maintain internal controls on Department of State automated information systems.
- Protect classified documents and classified communications equipment and workspace.
- Promote communications security.
- Update security settings, manage physical security, monitor security, and network security, etc.
- Manage telephone system security.
- Manage the Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) program.
Essential Physical Requirements
Some of the essential functions of the Diplomatic Technology Officer (DTO) job have a physically demanding component. In the execution of the duties and tasks listed above, DTOs are required to:
- Crawl under desks, office furnishings, and other objects and work in confined spaces such as under desks or equipment or in crawlspaces, attics, communication closets, etc.
- Walk and climb stairs. Bend, twist, reach, stoop, crouch, climb, and work on feet for extended periods.
- Lift up to 70 pounds and carry up to 50 pounds. Push, pull, or drag heaving objects or equipment. Carry equipment up and down stairs.
- See small objects such as fonts, wires, and computer components and see under low illumination.
- Hear voices in noisy offices, on poor phone connections or at low volume or soft spoken, including distinguishing words in heavy accents. Hear to audibly monitor computer equipment for a faulty condition such as noise from a server or hard drive.
- Pull wires, cables, and ropes that can involve climbing and working on ladders.
- Coordinate precise movements with hands and fingers to assemble electronic components including using hand tools such as screwdrivers and pliers. Feeling and manipulating small objects with hands and fingers.
- Type quickly for extended periods of time.
- Work in adverse environmental conditions, such as extremes of heat, cold, wet, dirt, and dust.
- Work erratic, unusual, unexpected hours and long hours.
- Travel and experience jetlag, changes in temperature, humidity, etc.
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 Security Clearance.
- Be able to meet the minimum medical qualification standard.
- 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).***
Please do not submit the application through USAJobs.
Please submit application and register to take the Diplomatic Technology Officer Test (DTOT) at: https://gov.pearsonvue.com/dtot.html
Qualifications
Qualifying Specialized Experience must demonstrate the potential to perform in progressively more responsible positions in the information technology field. An applicant’s work experience will be evaluated for level of responsibility and length of experience.
To qualify as Specialized Experience, 60% or more of the duties must be related to:
- System Maintenance functions such as upgrade, repair, replace hardware and software components
- Configure network devices such as switches and routers
- Substantial helpdesk/customer service experience and perform System Admin functions such as managing accounts, setting permissions, and configuration of systems
- Working knowledge of current Windows Server and Windows client technology, MS Office Suite, SharePoint administration.
- Add, delete, and assign users to roles, patch management and server maintenance
- Configure or administer virtual network environment and cloud systems
- Program Management for IT projects
- Use Data Analytics tools to make informed data driven decisions that identify and prioritize technical needs and requirements
- Cybersecurity detection and response, user education, log review, event response, compliance, patching, updating
- Working knowledge of endpoints devices such as desktops, laptops, mobile phones, and other devices to deliver proper service to customers
- Experience with operating and configuring audio/video teleconference equipment
- Knowledge of customary approaches, techniques, and requirements appropriate in evaluating, analyzing, planning, installing, operating, maintaining, managing, or improving: LAN/MAN/WAN environments and WIFI
- In-depth technical knowledge of VoIP and other computer-based, office telephone exchanges and systems, an understanding of fiber optical cables, media cables such as CAT5 and CAT6, and familiarity with installing and terminating all in accordance with building industry standards.
- Hands-on experience in surveying, installing, maintaining, and repairing radio systems, including HF/VHF/UHF land mobile and avionics. Proficiency in using associated test equipment and technical knowledge of RF systems. Federal Communications or radio licenses
- Familiarity with industry standards and certifications such as BICSI Installer Level 2 and EIA/TIA grounding systems is desirable
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
The Department has conducted extensive job analysis research to determine Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) and other attributes conducive to successful performance in this position. An applicant’s education level, work experience, and other qualifications will be considered as part of the hiring decision-making process based on these KSA criteria.
- Knowledge of information technology, IT telecommunications, radio systems, the cloud, off-the-shelf (COTS) software, IT technology assessment, systems integration, information security, cybersecurity, virtualization, PBX and VoIP convergence, IT shared services, data analytics and data management, project management principles and IT planning, IT acquisition process, techniques in leveraging IT to satisfy business needs, problem and resolution tracking procedures, customer service theory and techniques, managing processes and operations, and management theory.
- Specialized skills in IT modernization, integrating local IT mission with Global IT vision, translating business needs into technical solutions, IT asset management, IT project management, information security, customer service, presenting technical concepts in layperson terms, enterprise systems, desktop and peripherals, network infrastructure, mobile services, and video conferencing.
- General skills in critical thinking, active learning, instructing, active listening, coordination, service orientation, persuasion, monitoring, equipment selection, time management, installation, learning strategies, complex problem solving, systems evaluation, management of personnel resources, systems analysis, management of material resources, judgment and decision making, management of financial resources, equipment maintenance, mathematics, negotiation, technology design, repairing, operations monitoring, operation and control and quality control analysis.
- Superior communication skills: In order to perform the duties of a DTO, successful applicants must consistently meet a high standard for English, both grammar (overall structure, spelling, and punctuation) and syntax (overall structure, clarity, and succinctness).
- Expert knowledge of complex digital and voice communications systems to include classified and unclassified computers, printers, multiplexers, fiber optic isolation devices, Local and Wide Area Network (LAN/WAN) systems, satellite communication systems, cryptographic systems, and building electrical wiring, power distribution boxes, and electrical codes.
- Ability to work and deal effectively with others; tact and the ability to obtain cooperation and confidence from supervisors and subordinates in performing official duties.
- Ability to work with minimum job supervision and a willingness to accept responsibility.
- Ability to lift and maneuver equipment weighing 20-40 pounds from the floor to a workbench height without assistance, and 40-70 pounds with assistance.
- Other requirements: the ability to adapt to changing physical environments, work with differing levels of technology, and keep abreast of the latest developments and innovations in the IT field, cross-cultural awareness, tolerance of travel and being on call, tolerance for working overseas, and tolerance of varying work environments. Accepting assignments based on the needs of the Foreign Service, experiencing frequent global travel, and travel or work without family in hardship posts, during a crisis, or to support mission-critical needs. 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.
Education
At the time of application, candidates must possess one of the following to be considered for the FP-05 grade:
- Served in a US Military IT Specialty Code, or Civil Service IT Specialty, or as an IT contractor to the USG, and 2 years specialized experience. A list containing U.S. military occupational specialty codes or designators is provided for your reference only at https://careers.state.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Feb2024_DTO-MOS-List-.pdf. Please note that this list is not all inclusive.
- Minimum 36 months “fully successful” employment in a State Department Expanded Professional Associates Program- Information Management (EPAP-IM) or Expanded Associates Program – Diplomatic Technology (EPAP-DT) position at FP-06 level, or any grade above, and met the training requirements in place at the time of prior EPAP-IM or EPAP-DT employment; or
- Minimum 36 months “fully successful” employment in a State Department Information Management Assistant position at the FP-06 level, or any grade above, and met the training requirements equivalent to an EPAP-IM or EPAP-DT.
- HS Diploma or GED Certificate and 5 years of specialized experience; or
- AA or AS or higher in an IT-related field; or
- AA or AS or higher degree in a non- IT field and 2 years of specialized experience; or
- IT-related degree or training must be in the following: Information Technology Management, Telecommunications Management, Computer Information Systems, Information Systems, Information Security, Networking, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Electrical Engineering, Cloud Computing, IT Acquisition and Control Management, IT Business processes, Computer Support Specialist, IT Project Management, Data Science/Analytics, Software Engineering/Development, Health Information Management, Video Game Design, Management Information Systems; or other related computer networking fields.
At the time of application, candidates must possess one of the following to be considered for the FP-04 grade:
- Served in a US Military IT Specialty Code, or Civil Service IT Specialty, or as an IT contractor to the USG, and 3 years of specialized experience. A list containing U.S. military occupational specialty codes or designators is provided for your reference only at https://careers.state.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Feb2024_DTO-MOS-List-.pdf. Please note that this list is not all inclusive.
- HS Diploma or GED Certificate and 5 years of specialized experience; and 1 current certification in an IT-related field (for example: A+, N+, CCNP or CISSP); or
- AA or AS in an IT field and 4 years of specialized experience; or
- BA or BS in an IT-related field and at least 3 years of specialized experience; or
- BA or BS or higher in a non-IT field and 5 years of specialized experience, and 1 current certification in an IT-related field (for example: A+, N+, CCNP or CISSP); or
- MA or MS or higher in an IT-related field and at least 1 year of specialized experience; or
- IT-related degree or training must be in the following: Information Technology Management, Telecommunications Management, Computer Information Systems, Information Systems, Information Security, Networking, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Electrical Engineering, Cloud Computing, IT Acquisition and Control Management, IT Business processes, Computer Support Specialist, IT Project Management, Data Science/Analytics, Software Engineering/Development, Health Information Management, Video Game Design, Management Information Systems; or other related computer networking fields.
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, http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation.
Foreign 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.
- The accredited interpretation must include the summary and the foreign education transcripts.
- Foreign education transcripts that have not been evaluated by a credential evaluation service will not be accepted and the candidacy will be terminated.
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.
OPM: www.opm.gov
U.S. Department of Education: http://www.ed.gov
Please refer to the Required Documents Section on how to submit the required educational documentation for this position.
Foreign Service Office Management Specialist (FS 9017)
Summary
The U.S. Department of State is developing a rank-ordered list of eligible hires for a limited number of Foreign Service Office Management Specialist (OMS) positions. Learn more about Foreign Service careers at https://careers.state.gov.
There is more to joining the Foreign Service than just the base salary. Refer to the Benefits section for more information on total compensation.
This job is open to
Clarification from the agency
Must be a U.S. citizen. Candidates should read the entire announcement to ensure they meet all requirements. Candidates may reapply one year after their most recent Office Management Specialist Test (OMST) for the same position. Candidates may not apply if a State Department Suitability Review Panel denied suitability in the last two years for any position, (except if the denial was for a DS Special Agent (SA) candidate whose denial was based solely on the unique requirements for SAs).
Duties
Foreign Service Office Management Specialists (OMS) are diplomats serving in key support roles at U.S. embassies and consulates globally and domestic locations. They perform a wide range of operational, administrative, technical, and executive-support functions that facilitate the efficiency and effectiveness of the organization.
The primary responsibilities of an OMS vary depending on the size of the post and specific position. The scope of work for an OMS will increase as they gain experience, are promoted, and become eligible for positions of higher rank and responsibility. The work requires knowledge of administrative, operational, technical, and executive support, superior interpersonal skills, resilience for working in fast-paced and challenging environments, a strong command of the English language, and in-depth knowledge of standard office computer software programs and social media platforms.
The following list is neither exhaustive nor in priority order; however, entry-level duties may include the following:
- General Office Support: Oversees and implements knowledge and records management policies for the office. Develops, updates, and implements administrative and operations policies for the office. May supervise staff depending on the position. Provides administrative oversight of office budgets (vouchers, travel expenses, petty cash, etc.). Facilitates visitor access. Manages inventory and ordering of office supplies. Maintains and certifies employee attendance. Coordinates office responses to Department and Congressional requests.
- Preparing Written Materials: Reviews and drafts diplomatic correspondence. Proofreads and edits documents, facilitating clearances when required. Prepares presentations, reports, and other written materials.
- Supporting Department Personnel: Manages and plans schedules, arranges meetings, conferences, and VIP escorts/visits/events. Makes travel arrangements and processes expense vouchers. Facilitates connections between key stakeholders and external officials, virtually or in-person. Attends meetings, takes notes, and drafts documents. Trains incoming staff on administrative and operational procedures. Conducts special projects. Participates in various embassy and department committees.
- Organizing and Supports Official Events: Plans, organizes, and/or supports special events and functions of all sizes on behalf of the office or embassy. Manages visitor access to events. Ensures consideration of protocol requirements and local traditions are observed.
- Supporting Technology and Innovation: Troubleshoots and resolves IT issues, to include hardware and software support, virtual communication and social media platforms, Microsoft Office applications, and Department-specific programs, among others. Leads change management and innovation efforts.
- Integrating with Local Culture: Uses foreign language skills to fulfill tasks. Attends and hosts representational events. Liaises with host country personnel and other interlocutors. Participates in local outreach.
It is not uncommon for Foreign Service personnel to perform duties outside of normal business hours due to needs of the post, official visits, or as part of a regular after-hours duty rotation. The type of compensation for additional hours worked will vary based on individual work schedules.
Requirements
Conditions of Employment
- Be a U.S. citizen and accept assignments based on the needs of the FS.*
- Be able to obtain a Top Secret Security Clearance.
- Be able to meet the minimum medical qualification standard.
- Be able to obtain a favorable Suitability Review Panel determination.**
- Be at least 20 years old to apply; at least 21 years old to be appointed.
- Be appointed prior to age 60 (preference eligible veterans excepted).***
Foreign Service Office Management Specialists (OMS) serve in key roles at U.S. embassies and consulates globally and at domestic locations. An OMS must adhere to the highest standards of integrity, dependability, attention to detail, teamwork, and cooperation while accepting assignments based on the needs of the Foreign Service, experiencing frequent global travel.
Qualifications
Specialized Experience
Specialized experience demonstrates that the applicant has acquired, and is able to apply, a combination of specific knowledge, skills, and abilities appropriate to the Foreign Service Office Management Specialist position. All qualifying specialized experience must be of a progressively responsible nature and must have been acquired supporting office or programmatic goals. Duties must have included at least 60% administrative tasks for each position. Specialized experience must be from the last 10 years to qualify.
Examples of specialized experience include, but are not limited to:
- Managing schedules and calendars, arranging meetings, conferences, events, and travel.
- Planning and assisting with events and visitors, tracking budgets, expenses, vouchers, and submitting and monitoring supply requests.
- Developing and implementing administrative procedures.
- Analyzing technical, operational, and administrative functions for the purpose of recommending process improvements or increasing program effectiveness.
- Formulating and implementing knowledge management and records management policies, such as developing and maintaining databases, records management, and conducting research.
- Providing computer hardware/software support and troubleshooting, to include maintaining office equipment. Skill in web-based navigation, virtual communication and social media platforms, and common Microsoft Office applications.
- Preparing materials, documents, handouts, or presentations (e.g., PowerPoint) for meetings, including proofing and editing documents for others.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
The Department has conducted extensive job analysis research to determine Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) and other attributes conducive to successful performance in this position. A candidate’s education level, work experience, and other qualifications will be considered as part of the hiring decision-making process based on these KSA criteria.
The candidate must show that they have an in-depth knowledge of their field and possess the knowledge, skills, abilities to successfully perform OMS duties worldwide.
- Interpersonal skills, including teamwork: Interacting effectively with others, including developing and maintaining constructive and cooperative working relationships and resolving conflicts. Collaborating with teammates, customers, and others from widely diverse backgrounds, views, priorities, knowledge, and needs to achieve the organization’s objectives.
- Customer service skills: Gathering information regarding customer requirements, assessing underlying needs, finding optimal solutions, and providing effective customer service.
- Communications skills: Candidates must demonstrate a strong command of the English language, both written (overall structure as well as grammar, spelling, and punctuation) and spoken (overall structure as well as delivery, clarity, and succinctness).
- Cross-cultural skills: Skill in working with people from diverse backgrounds, educational levels, and cultural surroundings to create and maintain an inclusive and success-oriented working environment. Acceptance of different cultures and interest in living in them.
- Planning, organizing, and project management skills: Skill at organizing multiple and varied tasks into an achievable system quickly and accurately with minimal supervision to complete duties on time. Identifying resources, making use of limited resources, correcting or preventing known problems, anticipating challenges, and establishing milestones.
- Time management: Skill in time management and prioritization of work, often under conditions of tight deadlines. Utilizing time efficiently, handling multiple priorities simultaneously, judging how to prioritize and delegate work appropriately.
- Problem solving and decision making/judgment: Skill in using logic and reasoning to evaluate facts, identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems, including creative and resourceful solutions, and present the alternatives in an unbiased way to others.
- Professional judgment and maturity to make decisions within appropriate areas of responsibility that move projects forward and enable timely achievement of section goals and recognizing when to seek guidance from more experienced employees.
- Management and supervision skills: Coordinating, scheduling, tracking, managing information flow, negotiating work priorities, supervising staff or interns. Taking initiative and showing leadership to proactively identify issues and tasks, motivate others, provide guidance, and serve as a role model.
- Record management skills: Using technology to create, search, track and archive documents, and creating and maintaining knowledge management hierarchies or systems.
- Computer skills: Assists and trains others on office and specialized software and helps resolve computer-related problems as first line of support, including proactively learning new systems and changes. Knowledge at the Microsoft Office Specialist level in Microsoft Office, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, Teams and/or SharePoint, to perform tasks assigned and troubleshoot information technology issues.
- Adaptability and flexibility: Changing one’s behavior to adapt to the situation and recover from setbacks and extreme job demands in a timely and positive manner to ensure effectiveness under any circumstances.
- Dependability and integrity: Reliable, responsible, dependable, and conscientious at fulfilling obligations to perform work and assist customers. Honest and ethical in all aspects of performing the responsibilities of one’s job, regardless of the demands of the situation.
- Openness to an international career: Accepting assignments based on the needs of the Foreign Service, experiencing frequent global travel.
Education
At the time of application, candidates must possess:
- A high school diploma or equivalent and three years of specialized experience in the last 10 years; or
- An associate’s degree and two years of specialized experience in the last 10 years; or
- A Bachelor’s or higher degree in any major and one year of specialized experience in the last 10 years.
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, http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation.
Foreign 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.
- The accredited interpretation must include the summary and the foreign education transcripts.
- Foreign education transcripts that have not been evaluated by a credential evaluation service will not be accepted and the candidacy will be terminated.
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.
OPM: www.opm.gov
U.S. Department of Education: http://www.ed.gov
Please refer to the Required Documents Section on how to submit the required education documentation for this position.
Foreign Service Consular Fellow – Arabic, Mandarin Chinese, Portuguese, and/or Spanish Proficiency
Summary
The U.S. Department of State, our country’s lead foreign policy agency, provides a rich international experience. A Limited Non-Career Appointment (LNA) in the Foreign Service is a distinct opportunity to serve your country for up to 60 months and offers candidates considering a career in the Foreign Service first-hand insights and exploration of potential Foreign Service career paths.
This job is open to
Clarification from the agency
Applicants must be U.S. citizens and available for work outside the United States. U.S. citizen candidates with dual nationality are ineligible for assignment within their country of dual nationality. Applicants may reapply one year after completing the Consular Fellows Program Test (CFPT) for the same position. Applicants may not reapply for two years after a State Department Suitability Review Panel denies them suitability.
Duties
Please visit the Department’s Career Site for more details on the duties and responsibilities of a Consular Fellow.
Special Circumstances
This Consular Fellow Limited Non-Career Appointment (LNA) is up to 60 months, but the Department may terminate the appointment at any time based on the needs of the Service. The Department assigns a Consular Fellow to a U.S. embassy or consulate overseas with the expectation that the appointment and potential extensions will permit completion of a standard two-year tour of duty. Upon completion of the first tour of duty, the Department may assign the Consular Fellow to a different overseas post. Consular Fellows are full professional members of embassy and consulate teams. Consular Fellow appointments, however, do not provide expedited, alternate, or otherwise special access or a pathway into the Department of State Foreign Service. These appointments do not lead to onward employment with the Department of State or with the U.S. government. Consular Fellows may apply to become career Foreign Service Specialists or Officers, as well as Civil Service employees, but they must meet all applicable qualifications and complete the standard application and assessment processes. Consular Fellows who subsequently enter the career Foreign Service as Entry Level Officers are still required to fulfill the consular service requirement. Consular Fellows must also complete 24 months of service as a Consular Fellow before joining the career Foreign Service, if after completing the standard application process they are offered such a position.
The Department hires candidates applying for the Portuguese and Chinese language programs primarily for service in Brazil and China. Per the Foreign Affairs Manual (3 FAM 2424.5), the Department does not permit assignment of U.S. employees to posts in countries of which they are nationals. Additionally, candidates and their family members should be aware that, in general, countries do not extend diplomatic privileges and immunities to family members who are dual nationals.
Requirements
Conditions of Employment
The U.S. Department of State maintains a rank-ordered list of eligible hires for LNA Consular Fellow positions. To learn more about the Department of State and the Consular Fellows Program visit the Department of State’s Careers website at https://careers.state.gov and careers.state.gov/career-paths/foreign-service/consular-fellows.
Qualifications for Employment:
- Be a U.S. citizen and able to obtain authorization to work in country or countries of assignment. (Note: Candidates with dual nationality are ineligible for assignment within their country of dual nationality. Recruitment for Portuguese and Chinese languages is targeted for service in Brazil and China, and candidates who are nationals of these countries are unable to meet this qualification).
- Be able to obtain a Top Secret Security Clearance.
- Be able to obtain a medical clearance to serve abroad at the post of assignment.
- Be able to obtain a favorable Suitability Review Panel determination.
- Be at least 20 years old at the time of application; at least 21 years old at the time of appointment.
- E-Verify: Verification of employment eligibility in the United States is required.
- Must speak and read an eligible foreign language at the required proficiency level (current eligible languages are Arabic, Mandarin Chinese, Portuguese, and Spanish).
For more details on language proficiency, review information at Language Tests – Careers (state.gov).
The Consular Fellow LNA continues for up to 60 months but may be terminated at any time, with 30 days’ notice, by either the Consular Fellow or the Department. The Department assigns a Consular Fellow overseas to a U.S. embassy or consulate with the expectation that the appointment and potential extensions will permit completion of a standard two-year tour of duty. Upon completion of the first tour of duty, the Department may assign a Consular Fellow to a different overseas post for the remainder of the 60-month LNA.
Qualifications
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
General knowledge of the United States, including customs and culture, society, trends, history, economy, government, political system, and the Constitution.
Skill in written and oral communication, including English grammar and usage, techniques for effective interpersonal communication, techniques for handling interviews, complaints, sources of information, and public speaking ability.
General skills in computers, including computer operations, common office software programs (e.g., Microsoft), e-mail systems, internet. The Department will provide successful applicants with training on specialized Consular software applications.
General subject matter, including psychology and human behavior, interacting with individuals undergoing stress. Basic mathematics.
Required language fluency as outlined above.
Education
There is no minimum education requirement for this position.
All the best with your applications
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