The US Department of State offers two career options for those interested in representing their country abroad: Foreign Service Officers (FOE) and Foreign Service Specialists (FSS). FOEs can choose from five career paths, while FSSs provide specialized skills in various areas. The hiring process is lengthy and includes exams, background checks, and medical clearance.
The US Department of State is the agency responsible for foreign relations between the US and other countries around the world. Those wishing to represent their country abroad by pursuing a career in the Foreign Service with the Department of State can choose between two options. The different types of Foreign Service jobs fall under the category of Foreign Service Officers (FOE) or Foreign Service Specialists (FSS).
Foreign service officers work around the world, representing the United States at embassies, consulates, and other diplomatic missions. Foreign service jobs obtained by FSOs are held in one of five careers. FSOs who choose the management track will be responsible for the efficient, day-to-day operation of the embassy or consulate where they are stationed. The second career is the consular career, which requires FSOs to fulfill consular duties around visas and passports. An FSO on the consular floor is also responsible for assisting Americans who are traveling abroad with any emergencies.
The economic tier is the third tier a potential FSO can choose. Economic FOEs promote US economic interests abroad and help advise the US government on any economic development issues. FOEs who choose the political path help shape US foreign policy through recommendations and promote the US position on important issues within the country. The final career is public diplomacy. These FOEs help to promote relations between countries through special visits, cultural exchanges and other diplomatic events.
For people interested in Foreign Service jobs that require more specialized experience, they may be interested in becoming a Foreign Service Specialist. An FSS provides specialized skills that help support the United States in diplomatic operations around the world. The Department of State offers qualified professionals Foreign Service jobs as FSSs in business administration, construction engineering, international information, information technology, medicine and health, office administration and security.
Regardless of whether a person wants to become an FOE or an FSS, the hiring process is lengthy and can take up to two years. After passing the required Foreign Service Examination, applicants must pass an oral exam, a thorough background check, and receive a medical clearance. Once all these requirements are met, new specialists and officers will be assigned based on the needs of the US Department of State.
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