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Xandu posted:Depending on what you mean by questionable past, the CIA has one of the more liberal policies on past drug use. Otherwise, TS/SCI is the same throughout the government. Sorry, I've probably missed it, but what does TS/SCI stand for? I'm willing to admit to drug use as I can test clean at any time and it's been a long time for me for any type except for a brownie I was unaware of until too late a year or so ago.
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Jan 21, 2010 07:27
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transient posted:Sorry, I've probably missed it, but what does TS/SCI stand for? Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information, the security clearance you have to get.
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Jan 21, 2010 08:06
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transient posted:Sorry, I've probably missed it, but what does TS/SCI stand for? I'm willing to admit to drug use as I can test clean at any time and it's been a long time for me for any type except for a brownie I was unaware of until too late a year or so ago. Top Secret/Special Compartmentalized Information. Top Secret is one type of clearance, TS/SCI is another, higher clearance. (edit: beaten) Secret doesn't seem really involved, I think Top Secret and above is where they start calling your references and spidering out through references your references give, etc. Lying is basically the worst thing you can do. Yours doesn't sound very serious, but it's not like I know your past or am a clearance investigator or anything. Broadly speaking, I know they've had to relax their standards about previous drug use because they were disqualifying too many candidates.
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Jan 21, 2010 08:13
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transient posted:I've actually got a close friend in the CIA right now who has been trying to talk me into it. Part of my problem is that before I decided to go back to school I had a mildly questionable past which from talking to people he knows he thought would not get me through a CIA background check, but quite possibly a state department one. Are the background checks similar? OPM handles the general clearances, but each agency has their in-house security clearance too. So DS handles State Clearance, CIA has their own, IRS has their own (MITS?), etc. Lying is the worst thing you can do. In fact people with current drug uses have passed security clearances, because they were so honest. Also: TS/SCI stacks (edit: there's like a whole bunch of different levels of TS/SCI Clearance, in the DoD at least), there's a need-to-know sort of operation in it. So just because you have Y clearance doesn't mean you're set to know A-B-C things, even if they fall under the umbrella of TS/SCI. If you do not have need to know, the punishment is as the same as disclosing classified material/national secrets/i.e. 20 years in Leavenworth. If somebody from the CIA is trying to recruit you, give them a listen at least. It is not very far removed from what some departments at State do. (some people say State does the face work, CIA does the grunt work) AFAIK OPM does not deny you clearance because of "people you know" unless they're seriously shady people. Like if your wife's brother hacks into the US Government Database, yeah, that will get you a insta denial but if your wife's brother is a coke dealer in Missouri, they kind of don't give a gently caress (unless you're going into the DEA). It's about the web/sphere of influence/possibility of risk. and now: my spergin time! While applying for a certain specialist job, I realized my certification lapsed, like a month ago (D'oh!) So I'm taking it again, isn't going to be a problem. , except the company just called me and said "hey um you know we registered you two weeks ago, right? but while your check was clearing, we sold your seat to somebody else! yeah its full theres no shot in hell of you getting in now. There's another class.. but it's on Feb 6. Do you want it?" My issue: the specialist position deadline is Jan 30. Can I just send State a Fax of the email log of the entire transaction and proof of registration, payment, and whatnot of the class and tell them that "results are pending, will fax them ASAP once they come in." or are current certifications ABSOLUTELY REQUIRED by the time of closing? My application is already sent (as of November), and this is the only thing that's hanging it up. I realize it's not much past the deadline, like 5-6 days at most, but it has me pissed all morning.
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Jan 21, 2010 19:18
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Xandu fucked around with this message at 05:21 on Jun 10, 2011 |
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Jan 21, 2010 22:01
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So I'm close enough to taking the FSOA now that I'm in full prep mode. Preparation for most of the test is fairly straight forward, but from what I can gather the prep materials for the Case Management section are much less complex than those I will see on the actual test. According to the official prep session with the diplomat in residence they will give us "about 30 pages of materials" to digest, but there is a huge range in density of information that can be contained in 30 pages. The information density of prep materials in the FSOA yahoo group example case management studies is really light. It is filled with brochures and single paragraph letters. On the other hand, the talk I've been hearing makes it sound like I should expect 30 pages of the Economist. So those that have taken the test, could you give me an idea of what to expect? On to a barely related topic, I decided I needed a mnemonic device to remember the 13d's. Not knowing of any standard one, I made one that works well for me. Perhaps it will help someone else here as well... "ORC, COW PI, JEW IQ"
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Jan 23, 2010 00:30
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Secstate trips blow. That is all.
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Jan 23, 2010 04:51
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Vilerat posted:Secstate trips blow. That is all. I dunno, FAM/FAH arguments suck pretty hard.
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Jan 23, 2010 08:32
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FSOT invites went out.. i got one, but it was all "PERSON FIRST NAME PERSON LAST NAME" ? Weird. Guess I'm taking it in a few weeks. and Vilerat - haha. Did she scrutinize your department?
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Jan 25, 2010 20:23
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Skandiaavity posted:and Vilerat - haha. Did she scrutinize your department? Heh, no. http://hillary.foreignpolicy.com/posts/2010/01/25/clinton_in_canada_for_haiti_meeting The work involved in getting a VIP into town, host the event, then get them out is astounding. It's a lot of work but it's also a lot of fun and some of the most memorable work experiences I've had.
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Jan 25, 2010 23:43
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Welp. Got rejected by the QEP. Back to ye ol' drawing board.
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Jan 27, 2010 18:19
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Vilerat posted:The work involved in getting a VIP into town, host the event, then get them out is astounding. It's a lot of work but it's also a lot of fun and some of the most memorable work experiences I've had. mm, yes. That division of the DSS does their job really well, I see people talk a little smack about them [out of jealousy? or something] but it's always a positive comment from the VIPs. Treasury, too. Those guys have their poo poo locked down for pretty much every contingency. Way down to the U.S. Marshal to serve you at home @ 10 P.M., if needs be. But I guess that's why it's such a competitive post. p.s. it gets really fun when you are sent a VIP's schedule, but don't necessarily have the need-to-know to look at it. Right about then is when I started to seriously respect the secret service. 
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Jan 27, 2010 18:37
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CherryCola posted:Welp. Got rejected by the QEP. Back to ye ol' drawing board. That sucks, I thought you'd be a shoe-in with Urdu. I always see a shitload of government and contractor positions for Urdu speakers, if it's work experience that's sinking you you might try working one of those jobs for a year or two to boost your QEP score.
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Jan 27, 2010 18:41
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Pompous Rhombus posted:That sucks, I thought you'd be a shoe-in with Urdu. Oh yeah? If you know of any please let me know! I'm open to just about anything at this point, and would love to be able to use my language skillzzzz edit: congratulations! Can I live vicariously through you? CherryCola fucked around with this message at 19:29 on Jan 27, 2010 |
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Jan 27, 2010 18:50
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Yay, passed my QEPs! -e- PS that means if you were in the October FSOT cohort, your QEP results are online now.
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Jan 27, 2010 19:13
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CherryCola posted:Oh yeah? If you know of any please let me know! I'm open to just about anything at this point, and would love to be able to use my language skillzzzz Weird, only like 8 on USAJobs right now, but it seems like every analyst position I've seen is looking for Urdu/Dari/Pashto/etc speakers. If you don't have one already, create an account on USAJobs and check back frequently (you can also have it update you by e-mail if anything with "Urdu" pops up), may want to try the CIA or other agencies in the meantime.
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Jan 27, 2010 20:05
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I'm shocked to find that I also passed the QEP. I wish I knew Urdu, sorry CherryCola. We'll see how late I can schedule the oral assessment in a few days.
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Jan 27, 2010 22:51
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In terms of security and such, should we be keeping our QEP results, and the fact that we're applying for FSO positions secret? I know that when applying for things like DSS they ask you not to tell people you're applying. I looked on the State site but didn't see anything really addressing this. My girlfriend's mom has some former foreign-service friends that she wants me to meet and talk to for preparation, and I don't think that would be a problem but I'd hate for some indiscretion to ruin my chances farther down the line.  Also, congratulations to everyone else who passed and condolences to those who didn't.
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Jan 28, 2010 00:50
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Grr8 posted:In terms of security and such, should we be keeping our QEP results, and the fact that we're applying for FSO positions secret? I know that when applying for things like DSS they ask you not to tell people you're applying. I looked on the State site but didn't see anything really addressing this. Uh, negatron. At least no one told me that.
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Jan 28, 2010 01:28
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Grr8 posted:In terms of security and such, should we be keeping our QEP results, and the fact that we're applying for FSO positions secret? I know that when applying for things like DSS they ask you not to tell people you're applying. I looked on the State site but didn't see anything really addressing this. No need to keep it quiet. Do note that there are agencies that ask you to keep your application to yourself. Grr8 posted:Also, congratulations to everyone else who passed and condolences to those who didn't. Ditto this.
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Jan 28, 2010 10:23
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Another QEP victim here... What can I say, the system did its job-- at this stage in my life, I'm admittedly lacking the experience necessary to become a good Foreign Service Officer. Despite that relatively stoic outlook, I'm a little uncertain about what steps I should take that might make me successful next time. I only have vague ideas on what the board wants to see.
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Jan 28, 2010 11:06
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congrats/condolences, QEP teams. I'm a bit nervous taking the FSOT. An interesting thing pointed out by Obama last night was gov't pay freezes. Not that it matters, but it did get me to thinking - State sometimes falls under the national security umbrella, but not always. And the parts that do are all under the FS division; so by his own words: are they exempt? That is if this thing even gets to fruition, though. vvv- i think that's what he was getting at; kind of like how he's trying to switch everybody from steps to Pay for Performance plan, but tacking on placing freezes on salaries for a few years. that's how I interpreted it. Skandiaavity fucked around with this message at 23:18 on Jan 28, 2010 |
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Jan 28, 2010 23:02
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Skandiaavity posted:congrats/condolences, QEP teams. I'm a bit nervous taking the FSOT. As long as we still get our annual step increase v  v
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Jan 28, 2010 23:06
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What's interesting is reading the yahoo groups: there is a guy who had PN answers very similar to mine (substantively, that is; the writing was worse) that did not pass. Apparently though, it's not just because of the PN, but the QEP evaluates both your PN as well as your biographical information from the written test.
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Jan 28, 2010 23:37
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Are there any resources online for reading up on the FS IMS position closing Feb 1st; perhaps anyone here is an IMS? I've read the career page a few times but wanted some feedback on what the position really entails. Is it a glorified IT support position or what is it exactly comparable to in the private sector. I'm wondering what the career path of one would look and what types of opportunities there are for specialization in IS security, audit, compliance work?
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Jan 29, 2010 01:35
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the QEP: sigh. Don't feel bad. A lot of great people don't get past the QEP cut. It's somewhat arbitrary but I guess it does serve a purpose. I imagine that the oral exams are expensive to put on so making another round of cuts likely helps cut costs even if it might not have a noticeable effect on the quality of new hires. Urdu speaker - just apply for a job at CIA, DIA, or NSA. Those three will have the biggest demand for Urdu speakers. Alternatively there are other programs like the Pat Roberts Scholar program that you might be eligible for - they'll get you in the door and pay for an overseas education in your language.
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Jan 29, 2010 02:26
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I've got an interview coming up in March for a Canadian Foreign Service Officer position and received the following from the employer:quote:The interview process will be two-fold: in the morning, an interview board will ask you questions regarding how you would react in a variety of situations; in the afternoon, you will be asked to participate in a simulation exercise where you will be required to work in a team with other candidates who were also interviewed that morning. The "team" exercises have me somewhat confused -- just what are they looking for in this process? Given the particular employer, how would that likely affect what they are looking for and what personality traits they value? For example, I'm naturally withdrawn and deferential with people I don't know -- my inclination in such a situation would be to be the fly on the wall, keep my mouth shut, and only contribute when I was absolutely positive I had something worth saying. The upside of this is that I am reasonably good at getting a feel for group dynamics and I am pretty socially aware of what is going on with every person and relationship in a group at any time. The downside, obviously, is that most employers aren't looking for that sort of personality. But will that play well with the Foreign Service? Or are they looking for someone who gets along famously with others and smiles and is outgoing?
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Jan 29, 2010 02:41
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Happydayz posted:Urdu speaker - just apply for a job at CIA, DIA, or NSA. Those three will have the biggest demand for Urdu speakers. Alternatively there are other programs like the Pat Roberts Scholar program that you might be eligible for - they'll get you in the door and pay for an overseas education in your language. It's more competitive than you'd think for people with language skills. I've know a guy fluent (natively) in Urdu and learning Arabic and the only place he could get hired right out of college was the Capitol Police.
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Jan 29, 2010 06:04
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Yeah that's the thing. I mean all those jobs on that website are for instructors. Now, I can hold a decent conversation and translate loads of crap, but I'm definitely not fluent enough to train others in any substantial capacity. Anyway, I'm going to look around at some non profits I think. Would definitely like to work with new immigrants or something like that. Well, best of luck to all you who passed!
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Jan 29, 2010 07:46
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problematique posted:Are there any resources online for reading up on the FS IMS position closing Feb 1st; perhaps anyone here is an IMS? I've read the career page a few times but wanted some feedback on what the position really entails. Is it a glorified IT support position or what is it exactly comparable to in the private sector. I'm wondering what the career path of one would look and what types of opportunities there are for specialization in IS security, audit, compliance work? For the private sector comparison, I've heard that it's a all-in-one-Systems Administrator, including network and hardware - which is why it asks for the CISSP, MCSE, (or similar) certifications. So you'd be doing a little bit of everything. I would imagine you'd go through the ranks over again (seems common through federal agencies), start out doing grunt work and maybe ultimately end up managing an embassies's network? So yeah, I guess it could fall under "glorified IT support position". (could be wrong here..) Dunno on the IT Audit & Compliance sector.. State itself has it going on every 3 years, that much I know, but I think the civil service handles that aspect? Not usually recommending them, but private contractors are also great for that field. there's usually a steady stream of contracts/work in those fields, especially audit/compliance/certification & accreditation, so if you're set on that path, you might want to take a look at them. SAIC and Booz Allen are two good places to start. CherryCola, I know somebody at CIA that I'd be happy to pass your info along to, but I can't guarantee anything as it's been forever since I've talked to her. but she works in H.R., so it may be an 'in' for you. Did you try USAID? or Millennium Group? One would think they'd also be interested in Urdu speakers. I have heard that GWU Career fair, even if you don't go to GWU, is also a great place to meet recruiters for work. one should be coming up as it is spring. Skandiaavity fucked around with this message at 19:04 on Jan 29, 2010 |
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Jan 29, 2010 19:01
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All-in-One System Administrator is a pretty good description. We also deal with phones, radio, mail, and the diplomatic pouch. Some of those things are handled more by local staff but you still have to be familiar with them. You're not going to be elbow deep in the latest and greatest technology though. All your major installations are done by teams that come in so you're mostly just keeping things patched and running and also keeping your customers happy.
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Jan 29, 2010 19:23
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Just wanted to remind everyone that lots of people go through the Foreign Service Generalist hiring process (to one extent or another) multiple times before receiving a job offer. So don't be too dismissive if the process didn't work out this time. Also, thank goodness we don't have the kind of drivel here you see in the FSWE Yahoo! group since the results came out; so many misunderstood special snowflakes, so many conspiracy theories. . . .
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Jan 30, 2010 15:31
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Business of Ferrets posted:Also, thank goodness we don't have the kind of drivel here you see in the FSWE Yahoo! group since the results came out; so many misunderstood special snowflakes, so many conspiracy theories. . . . If you think that is bad, check out any forum having to do with applying for the JET program. Pompous Rhombus fucked around with this message at 16:28 on Jan 30, 2010 |
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Jan 30, 2010 16:25
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I've heard a LOT of mixed answers on JET, and they're on completely opposite ends of the spectrum -if you even take Japanese 101, without a proper teacher's recommendation you instantly are denied -you must have passable business japanese to even be considered for a middle school position -they ask you what your favorite anime is, and if you seriously answer it in any form, denied etc... but then again the type of person to apply for JET isn't really likely to be a scholar or person with (serious) business interests. The ones that are, obviously get the jobs.
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Jan 30, 2010 16:56
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Business of Ferrets posted:Just wanted to remind everyone that lots of people go through the Foreign Service Generalist hiring process (to one extent or another) multiple times before receiving a job offer. So don't be too dismissive if the process didn't work out this time.  Skandiaavity posted:For the private sector comparison, I've heard that it's a all-in-one-Systems Administrator, including network and hardware - which is why it asks for the CISSP, MCSE, (or similar) certifications. So you'd be doing a little bit of everything. I would imagine you'd go through the ranks over again (seems common through federal agencies), start out doing grunt work and maybe ultimately end up managing an embassies's network? So yeah, I guess it could fall under "glorified IT support position". (could be wrong here..) Keep in mind, the IMS staff at an Embassy or Consulate can be anywhere from 1-9+ FTE. So, when its just 2 of you, and one goes on leave for a week, it's just you on the job for a month and you're running the comm section solo is a pretty interesting experience. You might get some grunt work, but at a small/med Embassy that's either understaffed or is growing at a pace that hasn't been reflected in IMS/IRM staffing patterns, you can really do it all such as meeting with local telcom officials, being in meetings on deciding best course of action of IT budgets, managing LES staff, hiring LES positions, pulling fiber, doing phone support, etc. TCD fucked around with this message at 18:11 on Jan 30, 2010 |
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Jan 30, 2010 18:02
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TCD posted:Sometimes, the QEP works What does this mean? AKA Pseudonym posted:All your major installations are done by teams that come in so you're mostly just keeping things patched and running and also keeping your customers happy. Who does these? Is this State or outside contractors? If they are contractors, are they SAIC/Booz/ type of firms?
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Jan 30, 2010 18:31
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problematique posted:What does this mean? Hm? My reply back to Skaan was that IRM/IMS IT Americans (FTE) can be 1-9+ people at a Post, depending on the size Post. So, on your first tour, a month into the job, you can be acting Information Management Officer at a small/med Post. Or, at a large Post that's a pouch hub, you could be stuck working pouch all year long. It "depends". In other news, on my 3 day weekend, I get to work every single day. With two of the days being 5+ hour days.
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Jan 30, 2010 18:37
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problematique posted:
Depends on the team. Sometimes they have IMTS(State IRM technical people) along, but other times they can be all contractors. DoS IT is a mix of contractors, Civil Service, and Foreign Service.
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Jan 30, 2010 18:40
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Business of Ferrets posted:Just wanted to remind everyone that lots of people go through the Foreign Service Generalist hiring process (to one extent or another) multiple times before receiving a job offer. So don't be too dismissive if the process didn't work out this time. Yeah holy poo poo....someone on the FSOA group said there is someone with a 6.2 on the POL register, and someone with a 6.2+0.4 language bonus about to go on it... That sounds excessively high to me, or that someone who isn't on the register would have access to that information.
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Jan 30, 2010 19:19
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TCD posted:Sometimes, the QEP works Imagine being at a 1 man IPC post. It owns 
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