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Foreign Policy Advisor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

S. interests abroad, and implement foreign policy initiatives that enhance the safety, strength ... The Advisor conducts vetting of law enforcement and security force candidates for training and ...

In coordination with the relevant regional and functional bureaus, advise the Office Director and ... Preferred areas of study are international studies, political science, national security, foreign ...

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Foreign Policy Advisor information

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$12

$25

$45

How much do foreign policy advisor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for foreign policy advisor in the United States is $25.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $29.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a foreign policy advisor?

Foreign Policy Advisors are professionals who provide expert guidance and analysis on international relations and diplomacy. They help governments, organizations, or leaders make informed decisions about foreign affairs, including trade, security, and diplomatic strategies. Their work involves monitoring global events, assessing risks and opportunities, and crafting policy recommendations to advance their client's or employer's interests abroad. Foreign Policy Advisors often have backgrounds in political science, international relations, or related fields, and must stay updated on current geopolitical trends.

What are some common challenges faced by foreign policy advisors when working with multidisciplinary teams?

Foreign Policy Advisors often collaborate with professionals from diverse backgrounds, such as economists, military experts, and legal specialists. One common challenge is effectively communicating complex international issues in a way that is accessible to non-experts, ensuring that all perspectives are considered in policy recommendations. Balancing differing priorities and timelines across departments can also require strong negotiation and project management skills. Developing mutual trust and understanding is essential to creating cohesive, well-informed policy strategies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a foreign policy advisor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Foreign Policy Advisor, you need expertise in international relations, strong analytical abilities, and typically a relevant degree such as in political science or international affairs. Familiarity with government databases, geopolitical analysis tools, and sometimes proficiency in foreign languages are common technical requirements. Outstanding communication, diplomacy, and critical thinking skills set top advisors apart in delivering sound policy recommendations. These skills are crucial for effectively guiding decision-makers and navigating complex global issues.

What is the difference between Foreign Policy Advisor vs Diplomatic Officer?

AspectForeign Policy AdvisorDiplomatic Officer
CredentialsTypically requires advanced degrees in international relations, political science, or related fields; often with security clearancesRequires relevant degrees, diplomatic training, and often language skills; security clearances may be needed
Work EnvironmentAdvises government officials, works in offices, think tanks, or international organizationsWorks at embassies, consulates, or diplomatic missions abroad
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, think tanks, international organizationsForeign service, government diplomatic corps, international agencies
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for advisory roles in foreign policy decision-makingCompared for on-the-ground diplomatic roles abroad

While both roles involve international relations, a Foreign Policy Advisor primarily provides strategic advice to policymakers, whereas a Diplomatic Officer executes diplomatic functions at foreign posts. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in international relations.

How much does a foreign policy advisor make?

A foreign policy advisor's salary varies depending on experience, employer, and location, but typically ranges from $70,000 to over $150,000 annually. Senior advisors or those working for government agencies and international organizations tend to earn higher salaries, often supplemented with benefits and security clearances.

What degree do I need to work in foreign policy advising?

Foreign policy advisors typically hold at least a bachelor's degree in international relations, political science, or a related field. Many positions prefer or require a master's degree or higher, along with strong analytical, communication, and language skills. Relevant experience and security clearances can also be important for certain roles.

What degree do you need to be a foreign policy advisor?

A foreign policy advisor typically needs at least a bachelor's degree in international relations, political science, or a related field. Many roles prefer or require a master's degree or higher, along with strong analytical, communication, and diplomatic skills.
More about Foreign Policy Advisor jobs

What states have the most Foreign Policy Advisor jobs?

States with the most job openings for Foreign Policy Advisor jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Foreign Policy Advisor jobs?

For Foreign Policy Advisor jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Foreign Policy Advisor job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,941 per year, or $25.9 per hour.

Leahy Vetting Advisor

Washington, DC • On-site

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Leahy Vetting Advisor
Location: Washington, DC Remote Work: No Clearance: Top Secret (TS) Work Status: Full-Time Travel Requirements: This position is not expected to travel on a regular basis.
ATSG is actively seeking candidates for a potential upcoming contract. This position is contingent upon award, and hiring decisions will be finalized once the contract is granted.
Position Description
The U.S. Department of State leads American diplomacy, with the Secretary of State serving as the President's principal foreign policy advisor. The Department's mission is to advance U.S. national security interests, combat terrorism, protect U.S. interests abroad, and implement foreign policy initiatives that enhance the safety, strength, and prosperity of Americans.
The Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) keeps Americans safe at home by countering international crime, illegal drugs, and instability abroad. INL helps countries deliver justice and fairness by strengthening their police, courts, and corrections systems. These efforts reduce the amount of crime and illegal drugs reaching U.S. shores.
The INL Office of Western Hemisphere Programs (WHP) supports U.S. efforts to combat foreign terrorist organizations (FTOs) and criminal gangs in Haiti. WHP provides technical advisory, lethal assistance, tactical equipment and training to help the Haitian National Police (HNP) to identify, dismantle, and investigate FTOs and gangs. INL/WHP also assists the Government of Haiti in police professionalization, strengthening criminal deterrence to hold criminals accountable, counter-narcotics and firearms trafficking investigations, and corrections initiatives.
The Leahy Vetting Advisor ("Advisor") is responsible for vetting at the post level, in accordance with the Leahy Vetting Laws, ensuring proper coordination with the Political, Economic, Consular, Diplomatic Security and INL Sections as required. The Advisor conducts vetting of law enforcement and security force candidates for training and other foreign assistance benefits searching classified records up to Top Secret-level as well as unclassified electronic records, to assess the information found, and recommend a course of action with respect to derogatory information on individuals and/or units implicated in gross violation of human rights (GVHR) and non-GVHR cases. The Advisor coordinates with the Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs (WHA) Vetting Advisors and Office of Foreign Assistance Oversight (FAO) Vetters on vetting results.
Period of Performance
The period of performance for this order will be one (01) year from the date of award with the option to extend for six (06) months subject to performance, need, and funding.
Duties and Responsibilities
  • Conducts USG human rights vetting of military and police personnel receiving U.S. assistance, including training and other benefits in Haiti, and the Western Hemisphere, as necessary.
  • Provides subject matter expertise in vetting procedures for Embassy Port au Prince. Provides relevant recommendations and analysis to senior officials on vetting and human rights cases.
  • Attends working level interagency meetings to review difficult cases and recommends actions regarding derogatory information found. Raises problematic issues to senior levels as necessary. Consults with other offices in the State Department on the Leahy legislation and its amendments.
  • Supports the process to review and amend Postvetting procedures and updates standard operation procedures to ensure more efficient processes.Coordinates clearances with appropriate sections at Post involved in the vetting process.
  • Coordinates with all relevant sections of Post to ensure timely and effective responses to all vetting requests for security forces in Haiti.
  • Reviews incoming vetting requests and conducts all required checks on those unit(s) or individual(s) to receive U.S. assistance within timeframes established by Post leadership. When derogatory information surfaces, verifies information through appropriate channels to make a final recommendation on such unit(s) or individual(s) within required timeframes.
  • Follows U.S. law and regulations, advises regarding "remediation" efforts at Post to clear previously problematic units, if appropriate.
  • Annually reviews the 'suspended' cases to ensure they receive continued follow up toward approval or rejection, if appropriate.

Minimum Qualifications
  • U.S. Citizen.
  • A Bachelor's Degree from an accredited institution.
  • Minimum of two (2) years' work experience in international affairs, human rights, or other relevant field.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and in conducting internet research.
  • Excellent oral communication and writing skills to include drafting of action and info memos, congressional testimony.
  • Experience with press guidance and congressional and general correspondence.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Basic French and/or Haitian Creole language reading ability.
  • Active Top-Secret Clearance.
  • Demonstrated understanding of judicial and/or police training activities, and U.S. laws and regulations governing such activity.
  • Demonstrated understanding of the human rights situation in the countries of the Western Hemisphere.
  • Demonstrated strong analytical skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently and proactively.

About ATSG
ATSG Corporation is a Veterans Affairs (VA) CVE-Certified Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) based in Fairfax, VA with branch offices throughout Central America. Since 2004, ATSG has successfully deployed its experience and expertise to support the most challenging and complex projects for various Federal agencies. Our robust portfolio includes cutting-edge technical solutions and professional support in Program Management, Consulting, Operations and Planning Support, Training and Advisory Services, and IT and Knowledge Management. We take pride in our proven dedication to providing expert assistance to our government partners. ATSG provides a variety of services within the Intelligence Community and is experienced in areas such as Mobility, Enterprise Architecture, Data Processing, Law Enforcement Mission Support, and Acquisition Support. Our products may be diverse, but the results are one and the same-on schedule, on budget, and completed with superior quality. As an organization, we are consistently expanding our global footprint in the contracting community. We work hard to honor our commitment to our clients while ensuring our employees feel secure and empowered in their work. We take excellent care of our team, so they may have the freedom and confidence to focus on their missions and provide nothing but the best output on the work site and at home.
ATSG Corporation is an equal employment opportunity/affirmative action employer, our applicants and employees are protected from discrimination. Visit https://www.eeoc.gov/ for more information. Equal access to programs, services and employment is available to all persons. Those applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application and/or interview process should notify a representative of the Human Resources Department. To comply with Federal law, ATSG Corporation participates in E-Verify. Successful candidates must pass the E-Verify process after hire.
This contractor and subcontractor shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-300.5(a) and 60-741.5(a). These regulations prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals on the basis of protected veteran status or disability and require affirmative action by covered prime contractors and subcontractors to employ and advance in employment qualified protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. To comply with Federal law, ATSG Corporation participates in E-Verify. Successful candidates must pass the E-Verify process after hire.
We respectfully request not to be contacted by recruiters and/or staffing agencies.
Application Requirements
  • All applications must be submitted in .pdf, .doc, or .docx format.
  • Applications and resumes for this position are only accepted via electronic submission through ATSG Corporation's Consolidated Applicant Tracking System (CATS).
  • Mailed, emailed, faxed, or hand-delivered applications and resumes will not be accepted.
  • The decision to interview an applicant is based solely on the information received for this position from their electronic application and/or resume.