Things You'll Need:
- Internet access
- Resume
- Complete a training program
- Research
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Step 1
Decide which job appeals to you. The State Department has many different areas of work, and they all have different requirements.
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Step 2
Become a Foreign Service Officer: This will allow you to work in a U.S. Embassy overseas. You may have to learn a foreign language and you could be placed in a war zone.
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Step 3
Become a Civil Service Officer and stay within the United States: These jobs vary from business and finances, to engineers, and office support staff opportunities.
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Step 4
Go overseas. A Foreign Service Specialist will allow you to work in one of hundreds of posts across the world, providing support and services. Unlike many of the overseas jobs, most specialists will be able to bring their families along.
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Step 5
Work Diplomatic Security. This means you could become a special law enforcement agent serving overseas, or become a security engineer. This job is very diverse, and you could find yourself working as a diplomatic courier, or even a technical specialist.
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Step 6
Get your law degree. Attorneys who work for the department not only give legal advice, but they help implement foreign policy.
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Step 7
Become a student. There are plenty of opportunities for students including internships and fellowships.
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Step 1
Learn the requirements. U.S. Citizenship is required for some positions and certain jobs have an age requirement.
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Step 2
Find out which jobs are right for you. The U.S. Department of State provides quizzes on-line to help you make the decision based on your previous experience and interests.
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Step 3
Be aware of the possibilities with the job. Some jobs in the State Department require that you serve across the world and in war zones without your family. Other jobs allow you to bring your family overseas, while others allow you to stay in the U.S.
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Step 4
Learn a foreign language. Although you may not have to know a foreign language, some jobs will require that you learn one.
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Step 5
Be prepared for a background check. There are extensive background checks and training for some employees. You will have to provide personal information and take numerous tests.
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Step 6
Go through extensive training. Some jobs include a training program that could take up to a year to complete.
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Step 7
Look into health benefits and life insurance policies with the State Department. Some jobs could mean you are placed in a very dangerous area, including a war zone.
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Step 8
Fill out an online application. They will process your information and then you will go through a process for your particular job.
