Foreign Service Diplomatic Technology Officer (FP 2885)

The U.S. Department of State is developing a rank-ordered list of eligible hires for a limited number of Diplomatic Technology Officer positions. Learn more about Foreign Service careers at https://careers.state.gov. There is more to joining the Foreign Service than just salary. Refer to the Benefits section for more information on total compensation. This is a 2885 Foreign Service position equivalent to the 2210 Civil Service occupation series.

Qualifying specialized experience must demonstrate your potential to perform in progressively more responsible positions in the information technology field. We will evaluate your work experience for level of responsibility and length of experience. To qualify as specialized experience, 60% or more of the duties must be related to: System Maintenance: Upgrade, repair, and replace hardware and software components. Network Configuration: Configure network devices such as switches and routers. Customer Service and System Administration: Provide substantial helpdesk/customer service support and perform System Admin functions such as managing accounts, setting permissions, and configuration of systems. Windows Technology: Apply working knowledge of current Windows Server and Windows client technology, MS Office Suite, SharePoint administration User Management: Add, delete, and assign users to roles; manage patches and maintain servers. Virtual and Cloud Systems: Configure and administer virtual network environments and cloud systems. Program Management: Manage IT projects. Data Analytics: Use Data Analytics tools to make informed, data driven decisions that identify and prioritize technical needs and requirements Cybersecurity: Detect and respond to threats, educate users, review logs, respond to events, ensure compliance, and apply patches and updates. Endpoint Devices: Apply working knowledge of endpoint devices such as desktops, laptops, mobile phones, and other devices to deliver proper service to customers. Audio/Video Equipment: Operate and configure audio/video teleconference equipment. Network Environments: Apply knowledge of customary approaches, techniques, and requirements appropriate for evaluating, analyzing, planning, installing, operating, maintaining, managing, or improving LAN/MAN/WAN environments and WIFI. Telecommunications: Apply in-depth technical knowledge of VoIP and other computer-based office telephone exchanges and systems; understand fiber optical cables and media cables such as CAT5 and CAT6; install and terminate all cables in accordance with building industry standards. Radio Systems: Survey, install, maintain, and repair radio systems, including HF/VHF/UHF land mobile and avionics. RF Systems: Use associated test equipment proficiency and technical knowledge of RF systems, Federal Communications, or radio licenses Industry Standards: Demonstrate familiarity with industry standards and certifications such as BICSI Installer Level 2 and EIA/TIA grounding systems is desirable. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities The Department bases its hiring decisions on extensive job analysis research that identifies the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) and other attributes that lead to successful performance in this position. Hiring officials will evaluate each candidate's education level, work experience, and other qualifications against these KSA-based criteria. Knowledge of Information Technology: including IT telecommunications, radio systems, cloud computing, commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) software, IT technology assessment, systems integration, information security, cybersecurity, virtualization, PBX and VoIP convergence, IT shared services, data analytics and data management, project management principles, IT planning, IT acquisition processes, techniques for leveraging IT to satisfy business needs, problem and resolution tracking procedures, customer service theory and techniques, process and operations management, and management theory. Specialized Skills in IT Modernization: including integrating local IT missions with Global IT vision, translating business needs into technical solutions, IT asset management, IT project management, information security, customer service, presenting technical concepts in layperson terms, enterprise systems, desktop and peripherals, network infrastructure, mobile services, and video conferencing. Strategic Leadership, Complex Operational Management and Technical Proficiency: You must demonstrate critical thinking, active learning, instructing, active listening, coordination, service orientation, persuasion, monitoring, equipment selection, time management, installation, learning strategies, complex problem solving, systems evaluation, personnel resource management, systems analysis, material resource management, judgment and decision making, financial resource management, equipment maintenance, mathematics, negotiation, technology design, repairing, operations monitoring, operation and control and quality control analysis. English language proficiency: To perform the duties of a DTO, you must consistently meet a high standard for English, both grammar (structure, spelling, and punctuation) and syntax (structure, clarity, and succinctness). Knowledge of complex digital and voice communications systems: including classified and unclassified computers, printers, multiplexers, fiber optic isolation devices, Local and Wide Area Network (LAN/WAN) systems, satellite communication systems, cryptographic systems, building electrical wiring, power distribution boxes, and electrical codes. Teamwork: You must work and interact effectively with others, demonstrating tact while obtaining cooperation and confidence from supervisors and subordinates when performing official duties. Work Independently: You must work with minimum supervision and willingly accept responsibility. Adaptability and Professional Requirements You must adapt to changing physical environments, work with varying levels of technology, and stay current with the latest IT developments and innovations. You must also demonstrate cross-cultural awareness, tolerate travel and on-call duties, accept overseas assignments, work in varying environments, accept assignments based Foreign Service needs, tolerate living away from family, maintain attention to detail, and exhibit dependability and integrity. The Diplomatic Technology Officer (DTO) position demands significant physical capabilities. To execute your duties and tasks, you must: Essential Physical Requirements Mobility and Flexibility Crawl under desks, office furnishings, and other objects. Work in confined spaces such as crawlspaces, attics, and communication closets. Walk and climb stairs regularly. Bend, twist, reach, stoop, crouch, and climb throughout the workday. Stand and work on your feet for extended periods. Strength and Endurance Lift up to 70 pounds and carry up to 50 pounds. Push, pull, and drag heavy objects and equipment. Carry equipment up and down stairs. Visual Acuity See small objects such as fonts, wires, and computer components. Work under low illumination. Distinguish fine details on electronic components. Auditory Skills Hear voices clearly in noisy offices, on poor phone connections, at low volumes, and from soft-spoken individuals. Distinguish words spoken with heavy accents. Monitor computer equipment audibly to detect faulty conditions such as noise from servers or hard drives. Manual Dexterity Pull wires, cables, and ropes while climbing and working on ladders. Coordinate precise movements with your hands and fingers to assemble electronic components. Use hand tools such as screwdrivers and pliers. Feel and manipulate small objects with your hands and fingers. Type quickly for extended periods. Environmental Adaptability Work in adverse environmental conditions, including extremes of heat, cold, wet, dirt, and dust. Work erratic, unusual, and unexpected hours, including long shifts. Travel frequently and manage jetlag, temperature change and humidity variations.