FOREIGN AFFAIRS SPECIALIST with Security Clearance
The Foreign Affairs Specialist role involves developing expertise in government foreign affairs and international relations through progressively challenging assignments. The position requires conducting research, preparing documentation, and participating in special projects to support the formulation and direction of foreign affairs policies. This entry-level role offers structured training, mentorship, and career development within Confidential Client, requiring U.S. citizenship and a security clearance.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Teaching.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
Position Overview
Confidential Client is seeking an entry-level Foreign Affairs Specialist (Recent Graduate) to join a development program in Washington, DC. This role provides hands-on experience in foreign affairs analysis, policy research, and international relations work while supporting organizational missions that may require security-clearance exposure. Ideal candidates are recent graduates or veterans eligible under Recent Graduate program rules and are interested in a structured training-to-career path.
What You’ll Do
This is a developmental, entry-level role focused on growing your skills in foreign affairs and international relations. Responsibilities include:
- Perform developmental assignments that build knowledge of foreign affairs policies and procedures.
- Conduct research and analysis on international relations topics and prepare written briefings and correspondence.
- Participate in special studies, projects and initiatives related to international programs and policy.
- Support program management, logistics, and information disposition related to foreign affairs activities.
- Collaborate with team members to plan and organize work, track progress, and present findings.
- Complete required training and participate actively in mentorship and professional development activities.
Qualifications
Minimum requirements (applicants must meet at least one):
- Recent Graduate eligibility: Completed all requirements for a bachelor’s, master’s, professional, or doctorate degree within the last two years or will complete requirements by June 15, 2026 — OR —
- Veterans released or discharged from active duty within the previous two years (with extensions per program rules).
- U.S. Citizenship required.
- Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered for Selective Service or exempt.
- Ability to provide official transcripts to verify education.
- Grade point average guideline: 2.95 or higher (where applicable).
- Willingness to sign a mobility agreement and accept potential relocation during or after training.
- Ability to complete a one-year probationary period if required by federal employment rules.
Preferred skills and attributes:
- Strong written and oral communication skills.
- Ability to analyze problems, gather data, and recommend solutions.
- Interest or coursework in international relations, political science, public policy, or related fields.
- Demonstrated teamwork, organization, and time-management abilities.
- Any relevant unpaid, part-time, or volunteer experience should be documented and will be considered.
Training & Career Development
As part of the Recent Graduate developmental program you can expect:
- Formal orientation and a participant agreement outlining program expectations.
- Assigned mentor and an Individual Training & Development Plan.
- At least 40 hours of formal interactive training per program year.
- Ongoing mentorship, performance feedback, and opportunities for career advancement upon successful completion and conversion eligibility.
Compensation & Location
- Location: Washington, DC (onsite, may require mobility agreement).
- Estimated annual pay shown on some source postings: $53,858 (estimated). Exact pay will depend on appointment location, grade, and hiring rules set by the hiring organization. Confidential Client will follow applicable pay-setting rules and disclose salary ranges where required by local law.
Conditions & Clearances
- A security clearance may be required depending on assignment.
- Certain program rules and federal employment conditions may apply (e.g., DoD placement policies, reemployed annuitant rules).
- Applicants may be subject to background checks and must be able to meet eligibility requirements for the role.
- Confidential Client and Careertakes comply with all applicable employment laws and provide reasonable accommodation for applicants with disabilities. If you need an accommodation during the application or hiring process, please notify the recruiter.
What We Value
Confidential Client seeks candidates who demonstrate:
- A commitment to public service and ethical standards.
- Strong analytical and research capabilities.
- Clear, professional communication and the ability to work in multidisciplinary teams.
- Flexibility, initiative, and an eagerness to learn.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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