Diplomatic Security: Foreign Service Security Technical Specialist (FS 2560)

The U.S. Department of State is developing a rank-ordered list of eligible hires for a limited number of Foreign Service Security Technical Specialist (STS). Learn more about Foreign Service careers at https://careers.state.gov. There is more to joining the Foreign Service than just salary. Refer to Foreign Service Specialist Benefits for more information on total compensation.

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.

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. Visit https://gov.pearsonvue.com/dsstst.html. 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.