Diplomatic Security: Foreign Service Security Engineering Officer (FS-2550)

In addition to meeting the education requirement, candidates must meet the experience requirements below for the following grade levels:

• FP-06     0-2 years of experience
• FP-05     3-4 years of specialized experience; or Masters in one of the required degrees and at least one year of specialized experience
• FP-04     4+ years of specialized experience; or PhD in one of the required degrees and at least one year of specialized experience

Candidates for this position should have academic achievements and/or job-related experiences that reflect the following knowledge and skills. For experienced candidates, showing progressively increasing levels of performance and responsibility is required. 

Examples of specialized experience include but are not limited to:

1. Knowledge of networks and cyber security assessments and testing.
2. Understanding of the electromagnetic spectrum, and RF interrelationships and characteristics as it relates to the design and operation of electronic and electromagnetic systems.
3. Hands-on experience in the operation and use of electronic instrumentation such as multimeters, oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzer, sound pressure level meters, time-delay reflectors, network analysis and similar equipment that may be applied to test, certify, and troubleshoot electrical, electronic, mechanical, electromechanical and computer systems.
4. Knowledge and hands-on familiarity of computer systems, computer security, and familiarity with operating systems, hardware platforms, and networks.
5. Ability to read, interpret, create electrical and electromechanical schematics and architectural drawings, including electrical/mechanical building systems drawings.
   Knowledge of project management to include root cause analysis, project planning and process management.
6. Applying technical security policies, guidance, and standards to risk analysis and risk management.
7. Managing a budget to include cost analysis, logistics and travel requirements.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

The Department has conducted extensive job analysis research to determine Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) and other attributes conducive to successful performance in this position. A candidate’s education level, work experience, and other qualifications will be considered as part of the hiring decision-making process based on these KSA criteria.

In addition, the candidate’s experience, education, and training must show they have an in-depth knowledge of their field and possess the knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSA) appropriate to this Foreign Service position. The candidate MUST have the ability to:

1. Think logically and objectively analyze problems, apply sound judgment in assessing possible solutions, adjust to changing priorities and meet tight deadlines.
2. Present technical findings in a clear and concise manner to non-technical personnel.
3. Work and deal effectively with others.
4. Obtain cooperation and confidence from co-workers, supervisors (including professors and teachers) and subordinates as well as non-technical individuals.
5. Work with minimum job supervision and a willingness to accept responsibility.
6. Tolerance for international career: Accepting assignments based on the needs of the Foreign Service, experiencing frequent global travel. 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.

Essential Physical Requirements

Some of the essential functions of the job have a physically demanding component. Listed below are the requirements:

1. Ability to see objects that are near, far, or at night.
2. Ability to hear speech or other sounds, possibly including sufficient sensitivity to hear sounds of low volume or in noisy environments.
3. Ability to speak clearly enough so others will understand, including speaking to groups.
4. Ability to walk moderate distances, climb stairs, or access workstations and vehicles.
5. Ability to lift, push, pull, carry, climb ladders, or balance.
6. Ability to bend, stretch, stoop, twist, or reach.
7. Ability to manipulate small objects with hands or fingers.
8. Endurance to perform movements repeatedly or continually, possibly including the ability to stand for extended periods or take frequent extended trips by plane or car.
9. Mental endurance to maintain attention for extended periods or work long hours.
10. Ability to tolerate heat, cold, noise, or pollution.
11. Ability to lift with or without assistance.
12. Ability to climb stairs, ladders, and other inclines.
13. Ability to crawl under, around, or over objects.

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. In addition, 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.

• Note: Lasik surgery and implantable lens are permitted. Surgical and follow-up reports will be required. Candidates must also have good hearing with no loss of greater than 30 decibels at 500, 1000, or 2000, Hz level.
• Note: Use of hearing appliances is not allowed. 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 assessments. It is not part of the initial application package.

The supplemental standards for the SEO position can be found at https://careers.state.gov/career-paths/foreign-service/specialist/law-enforcement-and-security/security-engineering-officer/ under Document Diplomatic Security Engineering Officer Supplemental Standards.