Foreign Service Officer Job Description

A Foreign Service Officer is a type of diplomatic post.

It usually applies to diplomats who serve in embassies, consulates, and in some smaller countries, in the chancery.

These diplomats, who are called ambassadors, are appointed by the president of a country and represent their country on foreign soil.

Diplomats are usually either career diplomats or political appointees.

Career diplomats are hired into the service by national governments.

Political appointees are appointed by the president to fill temporary positions.

These appointees are noncareer diplomats and can sometimes be the heads of state themselves.

Job Brief:

We’re looking for Foreign Service Officer to fill a variety of roles within the State Department. These roles include working with other countries on diplomatic missions, developing and maintaining relationships with other countries, and representing the United States at international events.

Foreign Service Officer Duties:

• In coordination with the Country Director, assist in preparing and overseeing the implementation of Country and Regional Strategic Plans
• Develop and implement annual work plans, training plans, and budgets
• Develop and implement administrative plans and procedures to comply with local, state, and federal regulations
• Assist in attracting, training, motivating, and retaining quality staff
• Assist in recruiting and coordinating volunteers
• Ensure proper utilization of funds
• Provide reports, budget data, and other information requested by senior management
• Ensure that all necessary licenses, permits, and certificates are obtained and maintained
• Maintain regular contact with host country government personnel, including senior government officials, heads of ministries, provincial governors, ambassadors, and local business leaders
• Ensure all administrative and logistical requirements are met to deliver services
• Other duties as assigned

Foreign Service Officer Responsibilities:

• Plan, organize, and direct operations for assigned country, region, or designated country missions
• Oversee mission staffing, including recruitment, retention, and career development
• Maintain mission leadership and leasing with mission staff; negotiates personnel contracts, and resolves personnel problems; takes corrective action when necessary
• Develop and implement human resources programs, including recruitment, training, professional development, and discipline, in accordance with Department of State guidelines
• Develop and oversee budget plans for assigned country, region, or designated country missions; prepare and submit periodic reports to supervisor
• Manage physical resources; ensure proper inventory and rental of supplies and equipment
• Set schedules for foreign service officers; evaluate performance
• Attend meetings, conferences, workshops, and briefings; prepare and submit written reports on assigned projects, and attend training courses, seminars

Requirements And Skills:

• Bachelor’s degree
• 2+ years’ of experience working in a diplomatic capacity (country, region, or specific function)
• Knowledge of regional and/or global political, economic, religious, and social issues
• Ability to develop intelligence reports

At [Company Name], we embrace diversity and inclusion in all forms. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and are committed to building a team that reflects the communities we serve. We encourage applications from people of all races, religions, national origins, genders, and ages, as well as veterans and individuals with disabilities.