Foreign Service Office Management Specialist (FS 9017)

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

Applicants must demonstrate specialized experience that reflects the knowledge, skills, and abilities required for the Foreign Service Office Management Specialist position. Qualifying specialized experience must be progressively responsible, directly support office or programmatic objectives, and consist of at least 60% administrative duties in each relevant position. To be considered, specialized experience must have been acquired within the past 10 years. Examples of specialized experience include, but are not limited to: Managing schedules and calendars, arranging meetings, conferences, events, and travel. Planning and supporting events and official visits, tracking budgets, processing expenses and vouchers, and managing supply requests. Developing and implementing administrative procedures and office policies. Analyzing technical, operational, or administrative processes to recommend improvements or enhance program effectiveness. Formulating and executing knowledge and records management policies, including developing and maintaining databases, managing records, and conducting research. Providing computer hardware and software support, troubleshooting, office equipment and demonstrating proficiency with web-based tools, virtual communication platforms, social media, and Microsoft Office applications. Preparing materials, documents, handouts, and presentations (e.g., PowerPoint) for meetings; proofing and editing documents for accuracy and clarity. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities The Department has conducted comprehensive job analysis to identify the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) essential for success as a Foreign Service Office Management Specialist (OMS). Candidates are evaluated on their education, work experience, and other qualifications in relation to these KSAs. Successful candidates must demonstrate in-depth expertise in their field and the ability to perform OMS duties effectively in diverse, global environments. Interpersonal and Teamwork: Ability to build and maintain constructive cooperative relationships; resolve conflicts; and collaborate with colleagues, customers, and stakeholders from differing backgrounds, to achieve organizational goals. Customer Service: Proficiency in identifying customer needs, assessing requirements, delivering optimal solutions, and providing high-quality service. Communication: Strong command of the English language, both written and spoken with attention to structure, clarity, grammar, and delivery. Ability to communicate complex information succinctly and effectively. Cross-cultural Competence: Skill in working with individuals from varied backgrounds and cultures, fostering an inclusive and success-oriented environments, and demonstrating openness living and working abroad. Planning, Organization & Project Management: Ability to organize and prioritize multiple tasks, manage resources efficiently, anticipate challenges, and meet deadlines with minimal supervision. Time Management: Effectively manages time and competing priorities, adapts to tight deadlines, and delegates tasks appropriately. Problem Solving and Judgment: Uses logic and reasoning to evaluate information, identify solutions, and make sound decisions, demonstrates creativity, resourcefulness, and the ability to present alternatives objectively. Professional Judgment: Exercises sound judgment within areas of responsibility, advance projects, meet section goals, and recognize when to seek guidance. Management and Supervision: Coordinates workflow, manages priorities, supervises staff or interns, and demonstrates initiative and leadership. Records and Knowledge Management: Utilizes technology to create, organize track and archive documents; maintains knowledge management systems. Technical and Computer Skills: Provides first-line IT support, assists and trains others on office and specialized software, and proactively learns new systems. Demonstrates proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, SharePoint) and other digital tools. Adaptability and Flexibility: Adjusts to changing circumstances, recovers quickly from setbacks, and maintains effectiveness under pressure. Dependability and Integrity: Consistently reliable, responsible, and ethical in fulfilling job responsibilities and serving customers. Openness to an International Career: Willingness to accept assignments based on the needs of the Foreign Service and to undertake frequent global travel.