About the role#
The Foreign Service Consular Fellow position is a limited non-career appointment for up to 60 months. You serve as a full professional member of an embassy or consulate team overseas. This role provides an opportunity to gain first-hand experience in the Foreign Service. Please note that these appointments do not lead to onward employment with the Department of State or the U.S. government, nor do they provide a special pathway into the career Foreign Service.
What you'll do#
- Represent the United States in a professional consular capacity.
- Serve at a U.S. embassy or consulate overseas.
- Complete a standard two-year tour of duty, with the possibility of assignment to a different post upon completion.
- Handle interviews, manage complaints, and communicate effectively with individuals who may be undergoing stress.
- Utilize specialized consular software and standard office systems.
What you'll need#
- You must be a U.S. citizen and at least 20 years old to apply (21 years old at the time of appointment).
- You must speak Arabic, Chinese-Mandarin, Portuguese, or Spanish at the 2 level of proficiency.
- You must be able to obtain a Top-Secret Security Clearance, a medical clearance for service abroad, and a favorable Suitability Review Panel determination.
- For applicable positions, you must pass a Diplomatic-Security-led Assignment Review.
- You must be available for work outside the United States. Note that dual nationals are ineligible for assignment within their country of dual nationality.
- There is no minimum education requirement for this position.
Location & details#
- This is a full-time, on-site role based at U.S. embassy or consulate locations overseas.
- The appointment is temporary and may be terminated by either party with 30 days notice.
- The Department of State uses E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility for all hires.
About U.S. Department of State
The U.S. Department of State manages relationships between the United States and foreign governments or international organizations. Employees carry out foreign policy and represent the country at embassies and consulates. The department employs both Foreign Service and Civil Service staff to handle tasks like issuing passports and managing budgets. It operates with over 37,000 employees and maintains headquarters in Washington, DC.
How to get in at U.S. Department of State
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