Foreign Affairs Specialist, DO-0130-02, AFRL/SPI

Job Overview

This job announcement will be accepting candidate submissions until 30 June 2024.

As a Foreign Affairs Specialist, you'll work in the Strategic Partnering Directorate to enhance and integrate country and regional international efforts into AFRL's Business and Strategic Planning efforts. Position duties include, but are not limited to:

• Supports AFRL development procedures for improving program execution, creating transformational international policies and procedures, and formulating effective strategies consistent with the business and competitive strategy of the organization in a multidomain, global economy.
• Identifies and keeps up-to-date on key country and regional international policies and economic, political, and social trends that affect AFRL's key organizational goals and objectives.
• Provides technical expertise in consulting and supporting roles for multidomain international issues for AFRL, both in-house and outside AFRL.
• Creates, monitors, and tracks changes to DoD, DAF, and AFRL instructions, policies, and procedures.
• Provides direct support to AFRL/CC and other AFRL senior leaders for international activities and engagements.
• Maintains currency of AFRL international data bases and international agreement tracking tools.
• Hosts Technical Directorate/Mission Organization Workshops for training, networking, and sharing best practices.
• Organizes and manages country and regional international forums and leading the efforts in executing AFRL's role in development of international partnership agreements.
• Ensures critical international activities between AFRL and Foreign Governments/Countries are accomplished in a timely and professional manner (e.g. Forums, Agreements, Visits, etc.).
• Responsible for improving the international business process that will allow AFRL to accomplish its strategic objectives effectively and efficiently.

Telework

Yes, this position is eligible for telework opportunities; as determined by agency policy
Maximum Telework Flexibilities: The duty location for this position is listed below, however, this position is eligible for maximum telework flexibilities. Telework options can be negotiated and implemented after entrance on duty.

Wright Patterson AFB, OH
Remote Work (CONUS)

No, this position is not approved for remote work.
Required Qualifications

• US Citizenship
• Ability to obtain and maintain appropriate security clearance.
• Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade of position being advertised, or equivalent in other pay systems.
• Applicant must be able to meet the OPM Qualification Standards of the position being filled. Office of Personnel Management Qualification Standards can be found at: General Schedule Qualification Standards (opm.gov).
• This position may be deemed a drug testing designated position.

Desired Qualifications

• Professional Demeanor: Demonstrated ability to maintain a professional and diplomatic demeanor in all interactions, both internally and externally.
• Excellent Communication Skills: Strong written and verbal communication skills are essential for effectively conveying information and representing the organization's interests.
• Previous Staff Experience: Prior experience working in a staff role preferably within a foreign affairs or international relations context, preferably with a governmental or diplomatic entity.
• Analytical Skills: Ability to analyze complex political, economic, and social issues, and to provide insightful assessments and recommendations.
• Cross-Cultural Competence: Understanding of and sensitivity to different cultures, customs, and norms, with the ability to navigate and build relationships across cultural boundaries.
• Language Proficiency: Proficiency in one or more foreign languages relevant to the region(s) of focus for the position is highly desirable.
• Research Skills: Strong research abilities to gather and synthesize information from diverse sources, including government reports, academic papers, and media sources.
• Problem-Solving Abilities: Capacity to identify challenges, develop innovative solutions, and implement effective strategies to address complex issues.
• Teamwork and Collaboration: Experience working collaboratively in a team environment, as well as the ability to build consensus and work effectively with colleagues from diverse backgrounds.
• Adaptability and Flexibility: Willingness to adapt to changing priorities and environments, including the ability to thrive in high-pressure situations and to manage multiple tasks concurrently.
• Attention to Detail: Meticulous attention to detail, particularly in documentation, analysis, and communication, to ensure accuracy and precision in all aspects of the role.
• Interpersonal Skills: Strong interpersonal skills, including the ability to build and maintain positive relationships with stakeholders, counterparts, and colleagues at all levels.
• Ethical Integrity: Commitment to upholding the highest standards of ethical conduct, integrity, and professionalism in all professional activities and interactions.
• Education: A bachelor's or master's degree in international relations, political science, public administration, or a related field is typically required. Additional certifications or specialized training in foreign affairs may be advantageous.
• Experience with Diplomatic Protocols: Familiarity with diplomatic protocols and procedures, as well as experience in coordinating diplomatic activities and engagements, is desirable.
• Knowledge of the Air Force Research Laboratory: Familiarity with the AFRL mission and the mission of the Technical Directorates/Mission Organizations.

Additional Information

(Requisition # 27252)

Series

0130