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Federal position working in international relations, foreign policy development, diplomatic activities, and overseas operations for the State Department and other federal agencies.
2025 Base Pay (before locality adjustment)
| Grade | Step 1 | Step 2 | Step 3 | Step 4 | Step 5 | Step 6 | Step 7 | Step 8 | Step 9 | Step 10 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GS-5 | $34,454 | $35,603 | $36,752 | $37,901 | $39,050 | $40,199 | $41,348 | $42,497 | $43,646 | $44,786 |
| GS-7 | $42,679 | $44,102 | $45,525 | $46,948 | $48,371 | $49,794 | $51,217 | $52,640 | $54,063 | $55,486 |
| GS-9 | $52,205 | $53,945 | $55,685 | $57,425 | $59,165 | $60,905 | $62,645 | $64,385 | $66,125 | $67,865 |
| GS-11 | $63,163 | $65,268 | $67,373 | $69,478 | $71,583 | $73,688 | $75,793 | $77,898 | $80,003 | $82,108 |
| GS-12 | $75,706 | $78,229 | $80,752 | $83,275 | $85,798 | $88,321 | $90,844 | $93,367 | $95,890 | $98,422 |
| GS-13 | $90,025 | $93,026 | $96,027 | $99,028 | $102,029 | $105,030 | $108,031 | $111,032 | $114,033 | $117,034 |
| GS-14 | $106,382 | $109,928 | $113,474 | $117,020 | $120,566 | $124,112 | $127,658 | $131,204 | $134,750 | $138,296 |
| GS-15 | $125,133 | $129,304 | $133,475 | $137,646 | $141,817 | $145,988 | $150,159 | $154,330 | $158,501 | $162,672 |
Note: These are 2025 base pay rates. Most federal employees receive locality pay adjustments of 15-40%+ depending on location.
Official OPM qualification standards for GS-0130
Degree: major or equivalent, or a combination of courses totaling at least 24 semester hours, in international law and international relations, political science, economics, history, sociology, geography, social or cultural anthropology, law, statistics, or in the humanities; or 12 semester hours in one of the above disciplines and 12 semester hours in statistics/quantitative methods.
OR
Combination of education and experience: courses equivalent to a major, or a combination of related courses totaling at least 24 semester hours, as shown in A above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
OR
Experience: four years of appropriate experience in one or more of the fields listed above in work associated with international organizations, problems, or other aspects of foreign affairs.
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal foreign affairs position
Read the OPM qualification standards above to understand the education and experience requirements for your target grade level.
Match your years of experience and education to the appropriate GS grade. Generally: GS-5 (entry), GS-7/9 (junior), GS-11/12 (journey), GS-13+ (senior).
Collect your DD-214, SF-50 (if applicable), transcripts, certifications, and any training records that demonstrate your qualifications.
Create a detailed federal resume (2-5 pages) that addresses every qualification requirement. Include hours worked per week, supervisor contact info, and specific accomplishments.
Search for open positions, carefully answer all assessment questions, and submit your application before the closing date.
Military jobs that transition to GS-0130
Foreign affairs expertise. Highlight regional expertise, foreign relations, and analysis.
Strong match for civil-military operations experience. Language and cultural skills valuable. Consider State Department, USAID, or DoD civilian positions.
Limited match. Bachelor's degree in international relations or related field typically required. Language proficiency at DLPT 3/3 or higher strengthens candidacy.
💡 Tip: Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
Knowledge of U.S. foreign policy objectives and processes.
Understanding of international political dynamics.
Expert knowledge of specific countries or regions.
Ability to negotiate and represent U.S. interests.
Skill in analyzing foreign political situations and trends.
Ability to prepare cables, briefings, and policy papers.
Skill in working across cultures effectively.
Proficiency in foreign languages (often required).
Ability to respond to international crises and emergencies.
Skill in coordinating with other U.S. agencies.
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
A GS-0130 Foreign Affairs Specialist works in international relations, foreign policy development, and diplomatic activities. These professionals analyze foreign policy issues, coordinate international programs, and support U.S. diplomatic missions at the State Department and other federal agencies with international responsibilities.
Foreign Affairs Specialists earn between $42,679 (GS-7 Step 1) and $138,296 (GS-14 Step 10) under the 2025 GS pay scale following two-grade intervals. Most positions are GS-11/12/13, earning $63,163-$117,034 annually. Overseas assignments may include additional allowances.
GS-0130 positions require education and/or experience in international relations, political science, history, or related fields. Entry-level positions accept relevant degrees. Higher grades require progressively more specialized experience in foreign policy, international programs, or diplomatic operations.
Military experience in foreign area officer programs, international affairs, civil affairs, or overseas assignments provides excellent preparation. Those with language skills, cultural expertise, or experience working with foreign militaries have directly applicable backgrounds. Security clearances from military service are valuable.
The career ladder follows two-grade intervals (GS-7/9/11/12/13/14). Entry-level specialists support international programs. GS-11/12 specialists manage country portfolios or program areas. Senior positions involve policy leadership and may lead to Foreign Service or SES appointments.
Search USAJOBS.gov for 'Foreign Affairs' or '0130' series. Major employers include State Department, USAID, and Defense. Your federal resume should highlight international experience, language proficiency, regional expertise, and any overseas assignments. Security clearance eligibility is typically required.
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.