Career Paths
Learn more about global and domestic careers at the U.S. Department of State.
Civil Service employees shape U.S. diplomacy stateside by crafting policies and supporting global operations. Civil Service careers span a wide range of roles that strengthen America's presence and influence on the world stage—roles like foreign affairs officer, budget analyst, data scientist, or IT specialist.
Foreign Service Officers and Specialists serve on the front lines of diplomacy in U.S. embassies and consulates around the world. Foreign Service careers offer dynamic roles in political affairs, consular services, and more—all focused on advancing American interests globally while you work and live overseas.
Foreign Service Officers are generalists that engage with foreign governments, advocate for American interests, and help shape global policy across political, economic, and humanitarian priorities. They represent the U.S. at embassies and consulates around the world—often in high-stakes, fast-changing environments.We encourage all patriotic Americans who are passionate about serving their country to visit the Pearson VUE website to register for the Foreign Service Officer Test (FSOT).
· Foreign Service Specialists provide the critical expertise and operational support that allows American diplomacy to function around the world. From IT and security to medicine, logistics, and public outreach, they bring their specialized training to global missions in over 270 U.S. embassies and consulates. We encourage all patriotic Americans who are passionate about serving their country to apply through USAJOBS.gov.
Embark on a unique and rewarding career opportunity with the U.S. Department of State through the Limited Non-Career Appointment (LNA) program, where you can serve in U.S. embassies and consulates around the world through assignments ranging from 15 to 60 months.
