OBO's mission is to provide the most effective facilities to conduct U.S. diplomacy abroad. These facilities represent the best in American architecture, design, engineering, technology, sustainability, art, culture, and construction execution. 

As one of the world's largest and most experienced real estate organizations, OBO delivers safe, secure, functional, and resilient facilities that represent the United States to host nations. The bureau sets global priorities and manages the acquisition, design, construction, operation, maintenance, leasing, and disposal of U.S. diplomatic properties worldwide. 

With a portfolio replacement value of $83.2 billion and more than 280 locations, OBO's workforce and facilities exemplify the best of American standards and innovation. Employees contribute expertise in architecture, engineering, real estate planning, construction, facilities management, safety, health, security, and interior design, serving with integrity and professionalism. 

OBO teams lead and manage complex projects, connect with global communities, communicate U.S. foreign policy, and positively influence the economic, social, and environmental contexts in which they operate. 

Foreign Service Construction Engineers (FSCEs) oversee new construction and major renovations of U.S. diplomatic facilities worldwide. Working in multi-disciplinary teams, FSCEs help execute OBO's mission and support the Department's foreign policy objectives. 

OBO projects encompass a wide range of the built environment, including office spaces, municipal infrastructure, medical facilities, historic preservation, food service, IT infrastructure, art installations, recreational amenities, and environmental stewardship. These projects offer opportunities to engage with every phase of a building's lifecycle, from planning and design to operation and maintenance. 

Construction engineers hold degrees in architectural, civil, electrical, or mechanical engineering from ABET- or NAAB-accredited programs. They apply their engineering expertise and construction experience to manage new projects, supervise upgrades, and support sustainable design and energy conservation initiatives. Their responsibilities include quality assurance, financial controls, safety and security, commissioning, and administrative oversight. 

OBO projects are planned and designed in collaboration with leading architects, engineering firms, and construction consultants. These facilities represent U.S. standards and values and often serve as a point of engagement with host nation citizens. 

OBO's construction activities also have a direct impact on local communities, providing training and employment opportunities for thousands of host nation workers on large projects. 

Foreign Service Facility Managers (FMs) are responsible for the operation and maintenance of U.S. government assets at diplomatic missions around the world. Supporting OBO's mission, FMs deliver building-related services, manage physical resources, and oversee operations in office and residential properties at more than 200 locations globally. 

Facility Managers address the challenges of working in diverse environments and contribute to the effective functioning of U.S. diplomatic missions. Their work supports U.S. foreign policy and often provides cultural learning opportunities for their families. 

Facility Managers assigned overseas receive housing and K-12 schooling for dependent children. They also participate in federal retirement programs, health insurance, and paid leave. 

In addition to overseas assignments, OBO employees serve in the Rosslyn, VA office in fields such as architecture, engineering, human resources, historic preservation, art curation, security, safety and health, construction, interior design, finance, policy, and real estate. 

For more information about the work and impact of OBO employees, and to explore the variety of roles that support U.S. diplomacy, visit the Bureau of Overseas Buildings Operations website. 

Loading...

Connect With Us!

Downloads

Downloads
First Column Second Column
Foreign Service Specialist Assessment Information Guide

Position Descriptions

Downloads
First Column Second Column
Foreign Service Construction Engineer
Foreign Service Facility Manager
Bureau of Overseas Buildings Operations Overview