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Foreign Service Officer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Assistant Veterans Service Officer

Madison, WI ยท On-site

$33.41 - $36.29/hr

... Officer position in Madison, WI. The Eligibility List created will be used to fill future vacancies ... Provide services in both English and the required foreign language (e.g., Spanish, Arabic, Hmong ...

Assistant Veterans Service Officer

Madison, WI ยท On-site

$33.41 - $36.29/hr

... Officer position in Madison, WI. The Eligibility List created will be used to fill future vacancies ... Provide services in both English and the required foreign language (e.g., Spanish, Arabic, Hmong ...

Showing results 21-40

Foreign Service Officer information

See salary details

$29K

$56.6K

$100.5K

How much do foreign service officer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for foreign service officer in the United States is $56,584.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,500.00 and $65,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a foreign service officer?

Foreign Service Officers (FSOs) are professional diplomats who represent the United States government abroad. They work for the U.S. Department of State and serve in embassies, consulates, and international organizations worldwide. FSOs are responsible for promoting American interests, providing consular services, and helping formulate and implement foreign policy. Their roles can vary, including political, economic, public diplomacy, consular, and management functions. Becoming an FSO typically involves passing a rigorous selection process, including the Foreign Service Officer Test and oral assessments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a foreign service officer?

To thrive as a Foreign Service Officer, you need a strong background in international relations, analytical skills, and usually at least a bachelor's degree, often in political science, international studies, or related fields. Proficiency in foreign languages, experience with diplomatic protocols, and passing the Foreign Service Officer Test (FSOT) are essential technical qualifications. Exceptional communication, cultural adaptability, and resilience under pressure distinguish top performers in this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial for effectively representing national interests, solving complex global issues, and building strong international relationships.

What are some common challenges faced by foreign service officers during overseas assignments?

Foreign Service Officers often encounter challenges such as adapting to new cultures, navigating language barriers, and managing the demands of frequent relocations. They may also face difficult working conditions in countries with limited resources or security concerns. Building relationships with local stakeholders and representing U.S. interests abroad require strong interpersonal skills and resilience, but these challenges also offer unique opportunities for professional growth and personal development.

What is the difference between Foreign Service Officer vs Consular Officer?

AspectForeign Service OfficerConsular Officer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree, diplomatic training, language skillsBachelor's degree, language skills, customer service experience
Work EnvironmentEmbassy or consulate, diplomatic settingsEmbassy or consulate, public-facing roles
Employer & IndustryU.S. Department of State, foreign serviceU.S. Department of State, consular services
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Foreign Service Officers and Consular Officers both work for the U.S. Department of State in diplomatic environments. While Foreign Service Officers handle broader diplomatic duties, policy, and international relations, Consular Officers focus on visa processing, assisting U.S. citizens abroad, and immigration services. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and language skills but differ in their specific responsibilities and work settings.

How do you become a Foreign Service Officer?

To become a Foreign Service Officer, candidates must pass the Foreign Service Officer Test (FSOT), complete an oral assessment, and undergo a background investigation and medical exam. Applicants typically need a bachelor's degree, relevant work experience, and strong communication skills, with proficiency in foreign languages being advantageous.

How hard is it to become a Foreign Service Officer?

Becoming a Foreign Service Officer is competitive and requires passing a rigorous exam, a thorough background check, and an interview process. Candidates often need strong communication skills, foreign language proficiency, and relevant experience or education in international affairs or related fields.
More about Foreign Service Officer jobs

What cities are hiring for Foreign Service Officer jobs?

Cities with the most Foreign Service Officer job openings:

Who are the top companies hiring for Foreign Service Officer jobs?

The top employers for Foreign Service Officer jobs are:

What states have the most Foreign Service Officer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Foreign Service Officer jobs include:

Infographic showing various Foreign Service Officer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 74% In-person, and 26% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,584 per year, or $27.2 per hour.

$125K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 6 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Develop, update, and support training curricula and instructional materials on conflict escalation, early warning signs, and related issues for Department of State personnel.

  • Research, draft, and coordinate reports on atrocity prevention and related topics, including outreach and preparation of classified annexes as needed.

  • Monitor and analyze atrocity prevention and conflict assessment issues, and draft briefing materials, talking points, and policy recommendations for Department leadership.


Job description

The contractor shall provide services to support the Department of State's implementation of training and reporting requirements under the Elie Wiesel Genocide and Atrocity Prevention Act of 2018 and, as time allows, support implementation of additional DRL/REP responsibilities. Support the Department's compliance with statutory obligations to train Foreign Service Officers in atrocity prevention and prepare annual reports to Congress on U.S. atrocity prevention efforts; technical capacity building support for DRL/REP; and, as time allows, support other DRL/REP responsibilities.

Job Duties:

Training Development and Support:

  • Develop and update training curricula on recognizing patterns of escalation of violence and early warning signs of potential atrocities for Foreign Service Officers and other Department of State personnel.
  • Create instructional materials on conflict assessment methods, peacebuilding, early action and response, and other related issues.
  • Provide train-the-trainer support to Department subject-matter experts
  • Ensure training materials are adaptable for both in-person and virtual delivery
  • Other related duties as assigned

Production of Reports:

  • Research and draft content for congressionally mandated reports on atrocity prevention and other reports as needed, including outreach to U.S. missions globally.
  • Coordinate with U.S. government interagency partners, civil society organizations, academic institutions, and NGOs to gather input and recommendations
  • Support preparation of classified annexes as required
  • Other related duties as assigned

Analysis and Coordination:

  • Monitor and analyze atrocity prevention, conflict assessment, and other related issues
  • Maintain relationships with U.S. government interagency partners, international organizations, civil society, and academic experts
  • Draft briefing materials, talking points, and policy recommendations for Department leadership
  • Other related duties as assigned

Support for Other Elements of DRL/REP's Mandate:

  • Research, draft, and manage review by Department personnel of human rights- and democracy-based visa restriction and sanctions packages, asylum comment letters, and parole packages.
  • Other duties as assigned

Requirements

  • Graduate-level expertise in atrocity prevention, conflict analysis, human rights, or related fields
  • Demonstrated experience in curriculum development for adult learners
  • Strong research, analytical, and writing skills
  • Knowledge of U.S. foreign policy, interagency processes, and congressional reporting requirements
  • Ability to work collaboratively across multiple stakeholders

Benefits

Benefits Include:

  • Covers 100% of employee benefit premiums, including Medical (PPO or HDHP Option), Vision, Dental
  • Matching 401K
  • Short- and Long-Term Disability
  • Pet Insurance
  • Professional Development/Education Reimbursement
  • Parking and Transit Benefits for NY, NJ, ATL, and DC Metro areas

Other Duties:

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Salary Compensation: $125,000-$130,000