There is more to joining the Foreign Service than just salary. Refer to Foreign Service Specialist Benefits for more information on total compensation.
There is more to joining the Foreign Service than just salary. Refer to Foreign Service Specialist Benefits for more information on total compensation.
Occasional travel - Foreign Service Specialists generally spend most of their careers assigned to overseas posts and may, at times, live away from family and/or in difficult or isolated conditions.
Relocation expenses reimbursed
Yes—Upon 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.
Appointment type
Permanent - Permanent after tenure is granted by a Foreign Service Specialist Tenure Board.
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 DS Security Technical Specialist Test (DSSTST) 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.
Security Technical Specialists (STS) provide support for and assist in worldwide technical security programs to maintain and provide protection for U.S. Department of State personnel and facilities from technical espionage, acts of terrorism, and crime.
The duties of an STS vary according to the size of the post and the requirements of the specific diplomatic mission. The following are examples of the types of duties and responsibilities assigned to an STS at posts around the world, or in domestic locations. This list is neither exhaustive, nor in priority order:
Install, maintain, repair, and troubleshoot a multitude of technical security systems to include alarms, access control systems, locks, vehicle arrest systems, security video systems, explosive detection systems, X-ray machines, computer networking equipment, and forced entry ballistic resistant doors.
Assist with and/or perform technical surveys, system specifications, and equipment installations.
Conduct technical security design evaluations based on government regulations and standards.
Prepare formal updates to architectural drawings according to government regulations and standards.
Apply IT best practices to monitor and troubleshoot networking equipment, workstations, servers, and applications.
Plan technical support trips, coordinate logistics, and travel to overseas embassies and consulates.
Use sophisticated electronic test equipment such as oscilloscopes, time domain reflectometers, etc.
Manage equipment supply chain logistics– shipping, receiving, Bill-of-Materials (BOM) preparation using a Computerized Maintenance Management System.
Oversee and supervise the X-ray and explosive detection programs, to include repairing and performing radiation checks. Maintain/repair electro-mechanical systems using electronic test equipment.
Organize and maintain shops, storerooms, shop tools, equipment, parts, and supplies.
Work with or supervise host country personnel (locally employed staff) when required.
Test new-generation technical security equipment.
Provide technical security support to high level U.S. government officials and foreign dignitaries.
Manage training programs for various technical security systems.
Train security personnel at posts as required.
Take coursework to maintain and upgrade technical skills.
Write technical reports, including project proposals, equipment and/or system evaluations, maintenance and/or installation activity reports, technical field notices, trip reports, and other documentation as required.
Assist in the project management of security contracts. Serve as Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) and as Government Technical Monitor (GTM).
Supervise regional security technicians as assigned.
Mentor and supervise junior STS personnel and write employee evaluations when assigned.
Learn Department hiring and management best practices to apply them as a supervisor or when assisting in hiring processes.
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 meet the supplemental physical qualification standards.
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).***
Possess and maintain a valid/current U.S. Driver’s License.
Physical Requirements:
A physical examination of each candidate offered a position is required to ensure that the candidate meets the essential physical and medical requirements necessary to perform the essential functions of the job and can meet the required minimum medical qualification standards. Candidates must have vision that is correctable to 20/20 in one eye and 20/40 in the other, no color blindness, adequate night vision, and good peripheral vision. In addition, candidates must have good hearing with no loss of greater than 30 decibels at 500, 1000, or 2000 Hz level. The musculoskeletal system should have no deformities, diseases, or limiting conditions that would interfere with the performance of duties.
Note: The medical examination is required only after a candidate has successfully passed the written and oral assessments. It is not part of the initial application package.
Qualifications
Specialized Experience
Candidates must have at least two years of specialized experience, which demonstrates the ability to troubleshoot and repair electronic, electrical, and/or electro-mechanical systems and equipment, and is supported by work experience in this discipline.
Examples of experience include, but are not limited to the following:
Troubleshooting, maintenance, repair, and installation of AC power distribution systems, motor-generators.
Troubleshooting, maintenance, repair, and installation of motors, motor controls, disconnects, relays.
Troubleshooting, maintenance, repair, and installation of low voltage DC electronic systems.
Troubleshooting, maintenance, repair, and installation of low voltage DC electro-mechanical systems.
Use, repair, and/or calibration of electronic test equipment – meters, oscilloscopes.
Bench repair of electronic, electrical, and electro-mechanical equipment to the component level.
Troubleshooting, maintenance, repair, and installation of mechanical and electro-mechanical locking systems – electronic strikes, locks.
Troubleshooting, maintenance, repair, and installation of pedestrian and vehicular access control systems – door controls, vehicle barriers/arrest.
Troubleshooting, maintenance, repair, and installation of security video systems and supporting network components.
Troubleshooting, maintenance, repair, and installation of metal detectors – handheld, walk through.
Troubleshooting, maintenance, repair, and installation of radio communications systems, voice and digital communications networks.
Troubleshooting, maintenance, repair, and installation of Intrusion Detection Systems – alarms, detectors, sensors.
Troubleshooting, maintenance, repair, and installation of Public Address Systems – emergency notification systems, intercoms.
Troubleshooting, maintenance, repair, and installation of IT workstations, network equipment, servers, and cabling (copper and fiber optics.)
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
The Department bases its hiring decisions on extensive job analysis research that identifies the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) and other attributes that lead to successful performance in this position. Hiring officials will evaluate eachcandidate’s education, work experience, and other qualifications against these KSA-based criteria.
Technical and Engineering Knowledge
Knowledge of electronics technology and the National Electrical Code (NEC).
Knowledge of networking basics and information technology.
Knowledge of installation practices and risk analysis‑ techniques.
Ability to apply basic cost analysis, basic statistical analysis, the scientific method, and knowledge of material characteristics.
Security Systems Knowledge
Knowledge of technical security systems (TSS) and current industry trends.
Knowledge of technical security systems (TSS) and current industry trends.
Knowledge of quality assurance‑ processes.
Knowledge of relevant safety standards and practices.
Logistics Knowledge
Knowledge of logistics processes and practices, including planning, coordinating, and tracking the movement of equipment and materials.
Technical Skills
Ability to read and interpret building plans, schematic diagrams, and electrical drawings.
Ability to perform technical surveys and evaluate existing conditions.
Skill in using tools and working across various technical trades, including fiber optics and basic fabrication.
Ability to use computer software for design, analysis, documentation, and reporting.
Ability to provide clear technical guidance to others.
General Management and Interpersonal Skills
Skill in project management and team leadership.
Ability to prepare clear, accurate reports and other written products.
Skill in providing strong customer service to internal and external stakeholders.
Ability to develop and implement training programs.
Ability to evaluate, rate, and review the performance of others.
Ability to remain adaptable and resilient and maintain awareness of the working environment.
Commitment to self-development‑ and continuous learning.
Oral and Written Communication Skills
Ability to communicate in English at a consistently high standard.
Ability to structure written work clearly and logically and use correct grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
Ability to speak clearly, organize remarks effectively, and present information with clarity, concision, and professional delivery.
Color Vision
Ability to distinguish all colors of the spectrum to read resistor color codes, identify colored wires, and differentiate among warning lights of different colors.
Other Requirements: Cross Cultural and International Readiness
Ability to demonstrate cross cultural‑ awareness and work effectively with people from diverse backgrounds.
Willingness to pursue an international career, accept assignments based on the needs of the Foreign Service, undertake frequent global travel, and, at times, live away from family and/or in difficult or isolated conditions.
Essential Physical Requirements
Some essential functions of the STS position are physically demanding. STSs must be able to perform the duties below with or without reasonable accommodation.
Vision and Hearing
See objects at near and far distances and, when required, at night or in low‑light conditions.
Hear speech and other sounds clearly, including low volume sounds and sounds in noisy environments.
Speech and Communication
Speak clearly so others can understand, including when addressing groups.
Strength, Mobility, and Manual Tasks
Lift, push, pull, carry, climb ladders, and maintain balance, including moving heavy objects such as crates, building materials, and motor generators that may be oversized and weigh more than 70 pounds.
Manipulate small objects with hands and fingers.
Perform manual installation tasks, including hammer drilling, core drilling, pulling wire, installing conduit, and terminating cable.
Climb stairs, ladders, and other inclines.
Work at heights, including on rooftops, ledges, bucket trucks, scaffolding, and extension ladders.
Crawl under, around, or over objects.
Work in confined areas such as crawlspaces, attics, utility pits, tunnels, maintenance holes, and other restricted spaces.
Endurance and Stamina
Perform physical movements repeatedly or continuously.
Stand for extended periods.
Bend and stretch to reach equipment for prolonged periods.
Take frequent or extended trips by plane or car.
Maintain concentration for long periods, learn complex information and procedures, and think effectively after extensive travel and jet lag.
Environmental Tolerance
Tolerate extreme environmental conditions such as heat, cold, noise, and pollution.
Travel to and work in hostile environments, including war zones, areas of civil or political strife, and regions with extreme climates.
Education
At the time of application, the candidate must possess a high school diploma or equivalent.
Candidates can substitute additional educational achievements for specialized experience. Please see Qualifications Section for Specialized Experience requirements below. Please note 12 semester hours or 18 quarter hours is equivalent to one year.
For one year of specialized experience: One full academic year of education in any electronics or electro-mechanic specialty, or the equivalent amount of vocational, military, and/or formal job-related classroom training.
For two years of specialized experience: Completion of all requirements for an associate’s degree in any electronics or electro-mechanic specialty, or the equivalent of two full academic years of vocational, military, and/or formal job-related classroom training.
To substitute educational achievements for Specialized Experience, you must submit a copy of your official or unofficial university transcript(s) with your application.
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.
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.
Please refer to the Required Documents Section on how to submit the required educational documentation for this position.
Additional information
*EMPLOYMENT ELIGIBILITY VERIFICATION PROGRAM (E-Verify) – Verification of employment eligibility in the United States is required.
U.S. law requires companies to employ only individuals who may legally work in the U.S. – either U.S. citizens, or foreign citizens who have the necessary authorization. This agency utilizes E-Verify to compare information from the Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, to data from U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Social Security Administration (SSA) records to confirm employment eligibility. If the employee’s information does not match DHS and/or SSA records, the employee is given an opportunity to resolve the problem. If eligibility cannot be verified, employment will be terminated.
**The U.S. Department of State Suitability Review Panel and standards are defined in Chapter 3 of the Foreign Affairs Manual. For more information please visit: https://fam.state.gov/
***For more information about Veteran’s Preference and how it is applied in the selection process, please visit the link provided.
No candidate will be considered who has previously been separated from the Foreign Service under sections §607, §608, or §610 or §612 of the Foreign Service Act of 1980, as amended, or who resigned or retired in lieu of separation under these provisions. In addition, no candidate will be considered who has previously been separated for failure to receive a career appointment under section §306 of the Foreign Service Act of 1980, as amended, or who resigned or retired in lieu thereof.
A Foreign Service Specialist separated pursuant to Sections 306, 607, 608, 610, 612, may not re-apply to be in the same skill code but may apply for another skill code or to be a Foreign Service Generalist. A Foreign Service Generalist separated pursuant to Sections 306, 607, 608, 610, 612 may not re-apply as a generalist but may apply to a Foreign Service Specialist vacancy.
Executive Branch agencies are barred by 5 U.S. Code 3303 as amended from accepting or considering prohibited political recommendations and are required to return any prohibited political recommendations to sender. In addition, as mandated by 5 U.S. Code 3110, relatives of federal employees cannot be granted preference in competing for these employment opportunities.
It is the policy of the Federal government to treat all employees with dignity and respect and to provide a workplace that is free from discrimination and retaliation, in accordance with the standards set forth by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.
The U.S. Department of State provides reasonable accommodation to candidates with disabilities. Procedures vary by test type, and all candidates must request reasonable accommodations in advance. For more information visit Requesting Reasonable Accommodations - Careers (state.gov). Decisions for granting reasonable accommodations are made on a case-by-case basis.
Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits include health and medical coverage, federal retirement benefits, and paid leave. Overseas benefits include tax-free housing and tax-free education allowance for dependent children between K-12 overseas, and an unrivaled opportunity to see the world and experience different cultures.
The salary range listed is extracted from the Foreign Service Overseas and Washington pay scales. The starting step is determined in part by the highest education level achieved and specialized experience beyond minimum qualifications. Individuals already working in government positions may be appointed based on their highest previous rate as a federal employee. For information on salary, please visit Foreign Service Salaries.
You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.
Candidates will be evaluated on their total background including experience, education, awards, training, and self-development as it relates to the position. Selection for this position will be made only from among candidates possessing the best qualifications. Part-time work experience will be prorated.
The Department of State reserves the right to cancel and/or disqualify any application or to withhold test results when, in its judgment, a testing irregularity occurs. Testing irregularities include, but are not limited to, candidate misconduct, plagiarism, and/or misrepresentation of material fact, including in narrative descriptions of accomplishments. The Department may verify content provided by candidates by contacting references. It also conducts extensive background checks of work and education history of candidates offered employment.
REQUIRED TRAINING
Selected candidates will complete approximately twelve months of specialized training and orientation. The selected candidate must complete the Technical Security Training Path (TSTP) in Springfield, VA. This specialized initial training provides the candidate with the knowledge and skills to operate, install, maintain, and repair technical security systems at post. Failure to successfully complete any portion TSTP is grounds for separation.
Benefits include health and medical coverage, federal retirement benefits, and paid leave. Overseas benefits include tax-free housing and tax-free education allowance for dependent children between K-12 overseas, and an unrivaled opportunity to see the world and experience different cultures.
The salary range listed is extracted from the Foreign Service Overseas and Washington pay scales. The starting step is determined in part by the highest education level achieved and specialized experience beyond minimum qualifications. Individuals already working in government positions may be appointed based on their highest previous rate as a federal employee. For information on salary, please visit Foreign Service Salaries.
It is the responsibility of the candidate to ensure the application is complete before the closing deadline of this announcement. Incomplete applications will be disqualified.
In the online application, candidates must answer all self-assessment questions to include 10 years of work history. Applications missing any responses will be terminated.
Education Documents
When requested, candidates with qualifying DSSTST scores must submit the following documentation to demonstrate they possess the educational level required for this position. Candidates should add *@state.gov as a trusted sender. Neither the Department of State nor Pearson Vue are responsible for the failure of candidates’ internet service provider to deliver e-mail messages.
Official or unofficial college or university transcripts. Progress reports and grade reports will not be accepted. Candidates should not submit university diplomas in lieu of higher education transcripts.
All documents must comply with the following requirements to be accepted:
Must be in PDF format. Any other format will be rejected.
Must be an attachment. Documents sent via link or secured message, in any other non-attachment format, or sent directly from credential evaluation services will be rejected.
Must have no missing pages.
Must be legible.
Transcripts must include candidate’s full name, school’s name, course credits, degree and date awarded/conferred. Candidates with a name change should submit an official document reflecting the change.
All foreign education transcripts must adhere to additional requirements. See Foreign Education Information in the Education Requirements section.
Submit Veteran’s Preference documentation in PDF format for candidates aged 60 to 64 when requested.
If claiming Veteran’s Preference, a copy of the candidate’s DD-214 "Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty" that must include the candidate’s Character of Service must be submitted when requested. If claiming a 10-point Veteran’s Preference, the candidate’s VA letter and SF-15 must be submitted in addition to the DD-214. A certification from the armed forces is required only if a veteran has not yet received the DD-214. It must confirm that the service member is expected to be discharged under honorable conditions within 120 days and include service dates, expected discharge date, character of service, and any applicable disability rating.
The application submission deadline is 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on the closing date of this announcement.
It is the candidate’s responsibility to complete and submit the application and all required documents before the closing deadline. There are no exceptions.
Submit application and register to take the Diplomatic Security, Security Technical Specialist Test (DSSTST) as indicated in step 1 below. Do not apply through USAJobs.
Create a web account. Follow the instructions to complete and submit the online application. Applications are automatically saved. Candidates may pause the application process and return as many times as needed until the application is submitted. reate a web account.
Follow the instructions to complete and submit the online application.
Answer all self-assessment questions.
Include work history with a description of work duties, accomplishments, skills, and knowledge for the past ten (10) years.
Applications are automatically saved. Candidates may pause the application process and return to it as many times as needed until the application is submitted.
Complete, review, and submit the application. Submitted applications cannot be edited. Application packages must be complete before candidates can register for the DSSTST test.
The submitted application will be used to evaluate your qualifications for this position.
Candidates have six months to complete the application and to register for and take the DSSTST after submitting their eligibility verification. Candidates must restart the application process if they have not taken the DSSTST within this six-month window.
4. Select an appointment to take the DSSTST at one of Pearson Vue’s test centers. The test is an important part of the selection process, covering the Job Knowledge, English Expression, and Situational Judgment necessary to perform the functions of this position.
If you are having technical difficulty with the application process, please contact the Pearson Customer Service Desk by calling 1-866-389-8339 (toll free), or by utilizing the Chat function at www.pearsonvue.com.
U.S. Department of State
2201 C Street, NW
Washington, District of Columbia 20520
United States
Next steps
Pearson forwards candidates’ test results as well as their applications to the Department of State on a quarterly basis. After the Department of State receives the information, the Department will notify all applicants via the e-mail they provided during the application process of the next steps in the process. We recommend adding the Department of State domain (@state.gov) as an approved sender to your inbox.
Due to the high volume of applications, we ask all candidates to remain patient and await communication. It is not uncommon for several months to pass before candidates are informed of the application results.
It is the responsibility of the candidate to ensure the application is complete before the closing deadline of this announcement. Incomplete applications will be disqualified.
In the online application, candidates must answer all self-assessment questions to include 10 years of work history. Applications missing any responses will be terminated.
Education Documents
When requested, candidates with qualifying DSSTST scores must submit the following documentation to demonstrate they possess the educational level required for this position. Candidates should add *@state.gov as a trusted sender. Neither the Department of State nor Pearson Vue are responsible for the failure of candidates’ internet service provider to deliver e-mail messages.
Official or unofficial college or university transcripts. Progress reports and grade reports will not be accepted. Candidates should not submit university diplomas in lieu of higher education transcripts.
All documents must comply with the following requirements to be accepted:
Must be in PDF format. Any other format will be rejected.
Must be an attachment. Documents sent via link or secured message, in any other non-attachment format, or sent directly from credential evaluation services will be rejected.
Must have no missing pages.
Must be legible.
Transcripts must include candidate’s full name, school’s name, course credits, degree and date awarded/conferred. Candidates with a name change should submit an official document reflecting the change.
All foreign education transcripts must adhere to additional requirements. See Foreign Education Information in the Education Requirements section.
Submit Veteran’s Preference documentation in PDF format for candidates aged 60 to 64 when requested.
If claiming Veteran’s Preference, a copy of the candidate’s DD-214 "Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty" that must include the candidate’s Character of Service must be submitted when requested. If claiming a 10-point Veteran’s Preference, the candidate’s VA letter and SF-15 must be submitted in addition to the DD-214. A certification from the armed forces is required only if a veteran has not yet received the DD-214. It must confirm that the service member is expected to be discharged under honorable conditions within 120 days and include service dates, expected discharge date, character of service, and any applicable disability rating.
The application submission deadline is 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on the closing date of this announcement.
It is the candidate’s responsibility to complete and submit the application and all required documents before the closing deadline. There are no exceptions.
Submit application and register to take the Diplomatic Security, Security Technical Specialist Test (DSSTST) as indicated in step 1 below. Do not apply through USAJobs.
Create a web account. Follow the instructions to complete and submit the online application. Applications are automatically saved. Candidates may pause the application process and return as many times as needed until the application is submitted. reate a web account.
Follow the instructions to complete and submit the online application.
Answer all self-assessment questions.
Include work history with a description of work duties, accomplishments, skills, and knowledge for the past ten (10) years.
Applications are automatically saved. Candidates may pause the application process and return to it as many times as needed until the application is submitted.
Complete, review, and submit the application. Submitted applications cannot be edited. Application packages must be complete before candidates can register for the DSSTST test.
The submitted application will be used to evaluate your qualifications for this position.
Candidates have six months to complete the application and to register for and take the DSSTST after submitting their eligibility verification. Candidates must restart the application process if they have not taken the DSSTST within this six-month window.
4. Select an appointment to take the DSSTST at one of Pearson Vue’s test centers. The test is an important part of the selection process, covering the Job Knowledge, English Expression, and Situational Judgment necessary to perform the functions of this position.
If you are having technical difficulty with the application process, please contact the Pearson Customer Service Desk by calling 1-866-389-8339 (toll free), or by utilizing the Chat function at www.pearsonvue.com.
U.S. Department of State
2201 C Street, NW
Washington, District of Columbia 20520
United States
Next steps
Pearson forwards candidates’ test results as well as their applications to the Department of State on a quarterly basis. After the Department of State receives the information, the Department will notify all applicants via the e-mail they provided during the application process of the next steps in the process. We recommend adding the Department of State domain (@state.gov) as an approved sender to your inbox.
Due to the high volume of applications, we ask all candidates to remain patient and await communication. It is not uncommon for several months to pass before candidates are informed of the application results.
