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Foreign Service Diplomatic Technology Officer

U.S. Department of State
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Duties

 

Foreign Service Diplomatic Technology Officers (DTO) are responsible for the Department’s Information Resource Management (IRM) programs and Information Technology (IT) systems world-wide.

The duties of DTO vary according to the size of the post and the requirements of the specific diplomatic mission. At various times, at posts around the world or in domestic locations, the following are some examples of the types of duties and responsibilities a DTO is expected to perform:

Customer Service Skills:

  • Provide assistance to users of information management services (for example, by configuring and optimizing software).
  • Train users in the use of new software applications, providing guidance and assistance with new or amended IT-related policies and procedures.
  • Promote end-user involvement in technology and technical decision-making.

Information Technology Skills/Problem solving:

  • Administer computer systems and manage system performance. Set up networks. Start up, operate, and shut down systems.
  • Manage user access, train new personnel, identify and resolve problems, report, track and research incidents, counsel users, set up customer equipment, and replace equipment and parts.
  • Manage and operate classified and unclassified client/server solutions, desktop systems, messaging solutions, web-based technology, database solutions, and virtual servers to support LAN/WAN.
  • Manage telecommunication network services.
  • Manage communications equipment, install cabling, provide circuits, support video conferencing, manage communications flow, coordinate with host country officials, and manage wireless communications and Wi-Fi programs.
  • Manage voice communication services. Coordinate equipment provision, manage the telephone and radio programs, the personal mobile device program, and VoIP convergence devices.

Information Management Skills/Problem solving:

  • Implement IT projects gathering requirements, designing solutions, and assisting with development.
  • Acquire IT products and services, test solutions, deploy products, and maintain IT procurement and inventory.
  • Manage cloud requirements and support collaboration tools and IT Shared Services efforts.
  • Manage pouch programs, diplomatic post office, and telephone operator program.
  • Supervise locally employed staff system administrators, mailroom employees, telephone technicians, radio technicians and switchboard operators.
  • Manage work assignments and individual performance.,
  • Serve as part of the embassy or consulate management team and perform additional duties outside of normal information resource management activities as determined by embassy or consulate management or as dictated by special circumstances.
  • Support emergency planning and response and manage emergency wireless communications.
  • Ensure emergency destruction capability.
  • Maintain alternate processing site.
  • Manage emergency digital communications.
  • Keep current with specialty, gain and maintain certifications.

Information Security:

  • Maintain internal controls on Department of State automated information systems.
  • Protect classified documents and classified communications equipment and workspace.
  • Promote communications security.
  • Update security settings, manage physical security, monitor security, and network security, etc.
  • Manage telephone system security.
  • Manage the Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) program.

Essential Physical Requirements:

Some of the essential functions of the Diplomatic Technology Officer (DTO) job have a physically demanding component. In the execution of the duties and tasks listed above, DTOs are required to:

  • Crawl under desks, office furnishings, and other objects and work in confined spaces such as under desks or equipment or in crawlspaces, attics, communication closets, etc.
  • Walk and climb stairs. Bend, twist, reach, stoop, crouch, climb, and work on feet for extended periods.
  • Lift up to 70 pounds and carry up to 50 pounds. Push, pull, or drag heaving objects or equipment. Carry equipment up and down stairs.
  • See small objects such as fonts, wires, and computer components and see under low illumination.
  • Hear voices in noisy offices, on poor phone connections or at low volume or soft spoken, including distinguishing words in heavy accents. Hear to audibly monitor computer equipment for a faulty condition such as noise from a server or hard drive.
  • Pull wires, cables, and ropes that can involve climbing and working on ladders.
  • Coordinate precise movements with hands and fingers to assemble electronic components including using hand tools such as screwdrivers and pliers. Feeling and manipulating small objects with hands and fingers.
  • Type quickly for extended periods of time.
  • Work in adverse environmental conditions, such as extremes of heat, cold, wet, dirt, and dust.
  • Work erratic, unusual, unexpected hours and long hours.
  • Travel and experience jet-lag, changes in temperature, humidity, etc.

 

 

RequirementsConditions of Employment

  • Be a U.S. citizen and accept assignments based on the needs of the FS.*
  • Be able to obtain a Top Secret - SCI Security Clearance.
  • Meet the minimum medical qualification standard.
  • Be able to obtain a favorable Suitability Review Panel determination.**
  • Be at least 20 years old to apply; at least 21 years old to be appointed.
  • Be appointed prior to age 60 (preference eligible veterans excepted).***

 

Please do not submit your application through USAJobs.

Please submit your application and register to take the Diplomatic Technology Officer Test (DTOT)  at: https://home.pearsonvue.com/DTOT

This is a 2885 Foreign Service skill code (Information Management Specialist) equivalent to the 2210 series in the Civil Service.

 

Qualifications

 

Specialized Experience

Qualifying Specialized Experience must demonstrate the potential to perform in progressively more responsible positions in the information technology field. An applicant's work experience will be evaluated 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 functions such as upgrade, repair, replace hardware and software components
  • Configure network devices such as switches and routers
  • Substantial helpdesk/customer service experience and perform System Admin functions such as managing accounts, setting permissions, and configuration of systems
  • Working knowledge of current Windows Server and Windows client technology, MS Office Suite, SharePoint administration.
  • Add, delete, and assign users to roles, patch management and server maintenance
  • Configure or administer virtual network environment and cloud systems
  • Program Management for IT projects
  • Use Data Analytics tools to make informed data driven decisions that identify and prioritize technical needs and requirements
  • Cybersecurity detection and response, user education, log review, event response, compliance, patching, updating
  • Working knowledge of endpoints devices such as desktops, laptops, mobile phones, and other devices to deliver proper service to customers
  • Experience with operating and configuring audio/video teleconference equipment
  • Knowledge of customary approaches, techniques, and requirements appropriate in evaluating, analyzing, planning, installing, operating, maintaining, managing, or improving: LAN/MAN/WAN environments and WIFI
  • In-depth technical knowledge of VoIP and other computer-based, office telephone exchanges and systems, an understanding of fiber optical cables, media cables such as CAT5 and CAT6, and familiarity with installing and terminating all in accordance with building industry standards.
  • Hands-on experience in surveying, installing, maintaining, and repairing radio systems, including HF/VHF/UHF land mobile and avionics. Proficiency in using associated test equipment and technical knowledge of RF systems. Federal Communications or radio licenses
  • Familiarity with industry standards and certifications such as BICSI Installer Level 2 and EIA/TIA grounding systems is desirable.

Knowledge, Skills, and Other Characteristics

1. Knowledge of information technology, IT telecommunications, radio systems, the cloud, 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 and IT planning, IT acquisition process, techniques in leveraging IT to satisfy business needs, problem and resolution tracking procedures, customer service theory and techniques, managing processes and operations, and management theory.

2. Specialized skills in IT modernization, integrating local IT mission 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.

3. General skills in critical thinking, active learning, instructing, active listening, coordination, service orientation, persuasion, monitoring, equipment selection, time management, installation, learning strategies, complex problem solving, systems evaluation, management of personnel resources, systems analysis, management of material resources, judgment and decision making, management of financial resources, equipment maintenance, mathematics, negotiation, technology design, repairing, operations monitoring, operation and control and quality control analysis.

4. Superior communication skills: In order to perform the duties of a DTO, successful applicants must consistently meet a high standard for English, both grammar (overall structure, spelling, and punctuation) and syntax (overall structure, clarity, and succinctness).

5. Expert knowledge of complex digital and voice communications systems to include classified and unclassified computers, printers, multiplexers, fiber optic isolation devices, Local and Wide Area Network (LAN/WAN) systems, satellite communication systems, cryptographic systems, and building electrical wiring, power distribution boxes, and electrical codes.

6. Ability to work and deal effectively with others; tact and the ability to obtain cooperation and confidence from supervisors and subordinates in performing official duties.

7. Ability to work with minimum job supervision and a willingness to accept responsibility.

8. Ability to lift and maneuver equipment weighing 20-40 pounds from the floor to a workbench height without assistance, and 40-70 pounds with assistance.

9. Other requirements: the ability to adapt to changing physical environments, work with differing levels of technology, and keep abreast of the latest developments and innovations in the IT field , cross-cultural awareness, tolerance of travel and being on call, tolerance for working overseas, tolerance of varying work environments, willingness to accept assignments based on the needs of the Foreign Service, tolerance of living away from family, attention to detail, dependability and integrity.

Education

 

 

At the time of application, applicants must possess one of the following to be considered for the FP-05 grade:

  • Minimum 36 months "fully successful" employment in a State Department Expanded Professional Associates Program- Information Management (EPAP-IM) position at FP-06 level, or any grade above, and met the training requirements in place at the time of prior EPAP-IM employment; or
  • Minimum 36 months "fully successful" employment in a State Department Information Management Assistant position at the FP-06 level, or any grade above, and met the training requirements equivalent to an EPAP-IM.
  • HS Diploma or GED Certificate and 5 years of specialized experience; or
  • AA or AS or higher in an IT-related field; or
  • AA or AS or higher degree in a non- IT field and 2 years of specialized experience; or
  • Served in a US Military IT Specialty Code, or Civil Service IT Specialty, or as an IT contractor to the USG, and 2 years specialized experience. A list containing U.S. military occupational specialty codes or designators is provided for your reference only. Please note that this list is not all inclusive.
  • IT-related degree or training must be in the following: Information Technology Management, Telecommunications Management, Computer Information Systems, Information Systems, Information Security, Networking, Data Processing, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Electrical Engineering, Cloud Computing, IT Acquisition and Control Management, IT Business processes, Computer Support Specialist, IT Project Management, Data Science/Analytics, Software Engineering/Development, Health Information Management, Video Game Design, Management Information Systems; or other related computer networking fields.

At the time of application, applicants must possess one of the following to be considered for the FP-04 grade:

  • HS Diploma or GED Certificate and 5 years of specialized experience; and 1 current certification in an IT-related field (for example: A+, N+, MCSA, MCSE, CSMA, CCNP or CISSP); or
  • AA or AS in an IT field and 4 years of specialized experience; or
  • BA or BS in an IT-related field and at least 3 years of specialized experience; or
  • BA or BS or higher in a non-IT field and 5 years of specialized experience, and 1 current certification in an IT-related field (for example: A+, N+, MCSA, MCSE, CSMA, CCNP or CISSP); or
  • MA or MS or higher in an IT-related field and at least 1 year of specialized experience; or
  • Served in a US Military IT Specialty Code, or Civil Service IT Specialty, or as an IT contractor to the USG, and 3 years of specialized experience. A list containing U.S. military occupational specialty codes or designators is provided for your reference only. Please note that this list is not all inclusive.
  • IT-related degree or training must be in the following: Information Technology Management, Telecommunications Management, Computer Information Systems, Information Systems, Information Security, Networking, Data Processing, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Electrical Engineering, Cloud Computing, IT Acquisition and Control Management, IT Business processes, Computer Support Specialist, IT Project Management, Data Science/Analytics, Software Engineering/Development, Health Information Management, Video Game Design, Management Information Systems; or other related computer networking fields.

You must submit a copy of your high school diploma or GED Certificate, university transcript(s), or your DD-214 and your military training report with the title of training when requested.  PDF documents are strongly recommended; illegible documents will not be accepted.  Documents sent via link will not be accepted.  If you do not submit this documentation to demonstrate your educational achievements, your candidacy will not continue.

Before your application moves to the Qualifications Evaluation Panel (QEP) official or unofficial transcripts will be requested.  Your transcript must include your name, the school’s name, the degree and date awarded, and have no missing pages.  A transcript missing any of these elements will not meet the minimum qualifications and the candidacy will not continue.  Copies of diplomas may not be submitted in lieu of transcripts for education above high school level.

Education from a program or institution within the United States must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation.

Education completed in foreign high schools, colleges, or universities may be used to meet the education requirements if you can show that the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited educational institution in the United States.  It is your responsibility to provide such evidence when applying.  Only accredited organizations recognized as specializing in the interpretation of foreign education credentials that are members of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) or the Association of International Credential Evaluators, Inc. (AICE) are accepted. If documentation from an accredited organization is not provided, your candidacy will not continue. 

NACES: https://www.naces.org/index

AICE: https://aice-eval.org/

For further information on the evaluation of foreign education, please refer to the Office of Personnel Management and the U.S. Department of Education.  The U.S. Department of State neither endorses nor recommends any individual evaluation service.

OPM: www.opm.gov

U.S. Department of Education: http://www.ed.gov

 

Additional information

 

 

*EMPLOYMENT ELIGIBILITY VERIFICATION PROGRAM (E-Verify) – Verification of employment eligibility in the United States is required.

U.S. law requires organizations to employ only individuals who may legally work in the United States – either U.S. citizens, or foreign citizens who have the necessary authorization. This agency utilizes E-Verify to compare information from the Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, to data from U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Social Security Administration (SSA) records to confirm employment eligibility. If the employee’s information does not match DHS and/or SSA records, the employee is given an opportunity to resolve the problem. If eligibility cannot be verified, employment will be terminated.

**The Department of State Suitability Review Panel and standards are defined in Chapter 3 of the Foreign Affairs Manual. For more information please visit: https://fam.state.gov/.

***For more information about Veteran’s Preference and how it is applied in the selection process, please visit: https://careers.state.gov/about/diversity-inclusion/veterans-program-office/. 

No applicant will be considered who has previously been separated from the Foreign Service under sections §607, §608, §610 or §611 of the Foreign Service Act of 1980, as amended, or who resigned or retired in lieu of separation under these provisions. In addition, no applicant will be considered who has previously been separated for failure to receive a career appointment under section §306 of the Foreign Service Act of 1980, as amended, or who resigned or retired in lieu thereof.

A Foreign Service Specialist separated for failure to receive a career appointment under section 306 may not re-apply to be a Foreign Service Specialist in the same skill code but may apply for another skill code or to be a Foreign Service Generalist.

Executive Branch agencies are barred by 5 US Code 3303 as amended from accepting or considering prohibited political recommendations and are required to return any prohibited political recommendations to sender. In addition, as mandated by 5 US Code 3110, relatives of federal employees cannot be granted preference in competing for these employment opportunities.

It is the policy of the Federal Government to treat all employees with dignity and respect and to provide a workplace that is free from discrimination whether discrimination is based on race, color, religion, sex (including gender identity or pregnancy), national origin, disability, political affiliation, marital status, membership in an employee organization, age, sexual orientation, or other non-merit factors.

The Department of State provides reasonable accommodation to qualified candidates with disabilities.  Procedures vary by test type, and all candidates must request reasonable accommodations in advance.  For more information visit https://careers.state.gov/faq-items/what-is-the-assessment-centers-policy-on-reasonable-accommodations-for-persons-with-disabilities-or-those-who-have-medical-conditions-or-other-needs-such-as-the-use-of-medical-devices-or-acc/.