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TCD
Nov 13, 2002

Every step, a fucking adventure.
One thing that kinda sucks towards the end of a tour is trying to prioritize everything you want to see in the country/region and still maintain a leave balance for your next assignment.

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Skandiaavity
Apr 20, 2005
Glad to see you're safe, heard about that crazy fire in Sao Paolo.

problematique
Apr 3, 2008

What saves a man is to take a step. Then another step. It is always the same step, but you have to take it.
TIL there are four people in the Foreign Service that are "printing specialist" - http://www.usdiplomacy.org/state/athome/employeecats.php. I wonder what the 26 "others" are...my guess is carryovers from USIA or BBG related.

http://forums.dpreview.com/forums/post/12015930:

quote:

I'm a foreign service printing specialist. USIS (now part of State Dept.) has run a large full service printing facility on the Embassy compound in Pasay City since 1950 which prints public diplomacy books, pamphlets and exhibits which are shipped to US Missions around the world. My first four-year assignment in 1983 was as its production manager, my second starting in 1990 was a five-year stint as its Admin. officer, and my final two-year tour from 1999-2001 was as its Director. Opps I guess that adds up to 13 years not 11. Time flies when you are having fun :-).

Side question for those that came from civil service, is there anything funky that happens when converting from FERS to FSRS? I know you get creditable federal service for leave accrual purposes but I'm guessing time in FERS doesn't count toward FSRS as it's a different annuity and pay-in structure.

problematique fucked around with this message at 05:26 on Jan 28, 2013

joe123456
Jan 28, 2013
All,

As it concerns GSO Specialists and Management FSOs.....

1. Do GSO Specialists have an advantage over Management FSOs on assignments? Or is it the other way around? My assumption is that a GSO Specialist would typically be in more demand than an FSO with little to no GSO experience.

2. What about promotions? GSO specialists compete with FSOs for GSO mid to high grade billets? Or do GSOs only compete with GSO specialists?

3. Anyone know of a GSO doing a skill change to Management FSO? I am on the GSO hiring registrar, but I want to keep all options open and not limit my career growth. I thought about going through the FSO process, but stamping visas for a 2-4 years is not what I want to be doing after a 20 year military career. Its going to be tough enough taking a FS-4/GS-12 job, when I already have an offer to start a civil service career at the GS-15 level.

Thanks for your input!

Business of Ferrets
Mar 2, 2008

Good to see that everything is back to normal.
GSO Specialists do compete with generalists for GSO jobs. Early on in one's career, especially, the specialists have a real advantage, since they have to be placed in GSO or management jobs, but management generalists do not. This is one reason it can be tricky for generalists to get GSO/MGMT experience at the junior and early mid-levels. Things seem to shake out better at the mid levels and, particularly, above, where generalists have better chances at senior positions.

Skandiaavity
Apr 20, 2005

problematique posted:

TIL there are four people in the Foreign Service that are "printing specialist" - http://www.usdiplomacy.org/state/athome/employeecats.php. I wonder what the 26 "others" are...my guess is carryovers from USIA or BBG related.

http://forums.dpreview.com/forums/post/12015930:


Side question for those that came from civil service, is there anything funky that happens when converting from FERS to FSRS? I know you get creditable federal service for leave accrual purposes but I'm guessing time in FERS doesn't count toward FSRS as it's a different annuity and pay-in structure.

I know a printing specialist; and yes they do have such a center in Manila as part of their Embassy.

However, the specialist I know is not FS. She is CS, and works out of the DC office. Seldomly flies out to such printing centers and makes sure operations are fine, and to update things. They seem to run print magazines (State, FSJ?), diplomacy brochures, or even the pamphlets you get if you attend a career fair. That kind of thing. She's not FS and gets none of the benefits, aside from a diplomatic passport when she travels abroad.

That article seems a bit skewed. For example, "Foreign Service Exam: once a year" - obviously this means you can only take it once a year, however; it's offered several times per year. Or, I'm unaware of anyone who actually went CS to FS without taking the exam/Mustang, so I don't know what they mean for "CS-to-FS conversion program".. That said, I know PCS every X years is entirely possible if you're CS and there's a need, which is what they do.

edit: i stand corrected, FS ELO is an actual job http://careers.state.gov/specialist/opportunities/englang.html, it just comes up rarely

you can also see a full list of the specialist jobs: http://careers.state.gov/specialist/vacancy-announcements

For FERS and FSRS; that's an HR question and you get a packet in your orientation. It Depends on so many factors. Example; my understanding is DS will certify whether you get FERS if you go 1811 -> 6c, not OPM.

Skandiaavity fucked around with this message at 09:46 on Jan 28, 2013

TCD
Nov 13, 2002

Every step, a fucking adventure.

Business of Ferrets posted:

GSO Specialists do compete with generalists for GSO jobs. Early on in one's career, especially, the specialists have a real advantage, since they have to be placed in GSO or management jobs, but management generalists do not. This is one reason it can be tricky for generalists to get GSO/MGMT experience at the junior and early mid-levels. Things seem to shake out better at the mid levels and, particularly, above, where generalists have better chances at senior positions.

This seems to match what I've seen.

However, I know of several GSO Specialists that are doing MGT Officer tours and you can always try to do the skillcode petition change once you've worked enough months in that skillcode. One person I know did A/GSO(the junior GSO), A/GSO, S/GSO (supervisory GSO), MGT Officer. So, just because you're a specialist, doesn't necessarily hold you back all that much. I think at the senior levels (FS 1 and SFS), being a generalist generally improves your upward movement.

E: To expand on what BoF mentioned is that I know multiple officers who’s first two entry level tours are not in MGT. So, after language training, they’ll have about 5-6 years in the Dept before they go MGT/GSO/HR/Finance. Additionally, by that time, they’ll normally be at the FS-3 level, which means they’ll be competing for jobs where other people already have experience doing those jobs.

TCD fucked around with this message at 11:52 on Jan 28, 2013

Homie S
Aug 6, 2001

This is what it means

problematique posted:

TIL there are four people in the Foreign Service that are "printing specialist" - http://www.usdiplomacy.org/state/athome/employeecats.php. I wonder what the 26 "others" are...my guess is carryovers from USIA or BBG related.

http://forums.dpreview.com/forums/post/12015930:


Side question for those that came from civil service, is there anything funky that happens when converting from FERS to FSRS? I know you get creditable federal service for leave accrual purposes but I'm guessing time in FERS doesn't count toward FSRS as it's a different annuity and pay-in structure.

FERS time does count, but you have to be at least 6c covered if I'm not mistaken.


Also you know what else sucks in AF? Internet!

(bitter after a week of going without it)

Leif.
Mar 27, 2005

Son of the Defender
Formerly Diplomaticus/SWATJester
Unexpectedly going to be in DC for a week (medevac) starting the 10th-14th. If anyone wants to meet up, let me know.

CherryCola
Apr 15, 2002

'ahtaj alshifa

Diplomaticus posted:

Unexpectedly going to be in DC for a week (medevac) starting the 10th-14th. If anyone wants to meet up, let me know.

A bunch of us do trivia on Mondays (7 pm) at the Mighty Pint. You're welcome to join us!

TCD
Nov 13, 2002

Every step, a fucking adventure.

Homie S posted:

Also you know what else sucks in AF? Internet!

(bitter after a week of going without it)

E: NM :)

Also, it took me 4 weeks for the phone company to install my DSL... 3 weeks of that was them digging a 20 yard ditch to lay the cable from the demarche point to the residence.

TCD fucked around with this message at 20:04 on Jan 28, 2013

joe123456
Jan 28, 2013
[quote="TCD" post="411965948"]
This seems to match what I've seen.

However, I know of several GSO Specialists that are doing MGT Officer tours and you can always try to do the skillcode petition change once you've worked enough months in that skillcode. One person I know did A/GSO(the junior GSO), A/GSO, S/GSO (supervisory GSO), MGT Officer. So, just because you're a specialist, doesn't necessarily hold you back all that much. I think at the senior levels (FS 1 and SFS), being a generalist generally improves your upward movement.


Thanks for the information. It's good to know that GSO Specialists have opportunities to fill the management officer role. This info is what I needed to make the State Dept my #1 post retirement career opportunity. If all goes well, I should get picked up in the July or Sept FSS class.

TCD
Nov 13, 2002

Every step, a fucking adventure.

joe123456 posted:

[quote="TCD" post="411965948"]
This seems to match what I've seen.

However, I know of several GSO Specialists that are doing MGT Officer tours and you can always try to do the skillcode petition change once you've worked enough months in that skillcode. One person I know did A/GSO(the junior GSO), A/GSO, S/GSO (supervisory GSO), MGT Officer. So, just because you're a specialist, doesn't necessarily hold you back all that much. I think at the senior levels (FS 1 and SFS), being a generalist generally improves your upward movement.


Thanks for the information. It's good to know that GSO Specialists have opportunities to fill the management officer role. This info is what I needed to make the State Dept my #1 post retirement career opportunity. If all goes well, I should get picked up in the July or Sept FSS class.

FSS GSO serving as a MGT Officer is one of those things that you shouldn't expect, but is possible if you're motivated, know the right people, and the right people know you. Just the same that I know several IMO's who are doing MGT Officer gigs. I also know of several IRMers who've been shot down trying to do the MGT Officer excursion for various reasons so your mileage may vary.

E: With all that said, if you want to be a MGT Officer, you should really go for FSO MGT cone.

TCD fucked around with this message at 21:29 on Jan 28, 2013

joe123456
Jan 28, 2013
I am going to roll the dice and go the GSO route knowing that I will have opportunities to be a Management Officer. I just can't see myself stamping visas for 2-4 years after already reaching the FS-2 equivalent level in the military. Although, I guess there will be times where the GSOs are asked to help out the consular section. That is all fine, but not interested in doing it a few years. It's nice have the luxury of being able to be a little choosy about my second career :).

Another subject... Expanded Professionals Associate Program

My wife has both a CS and Math degree and is currently working at a large worldwide IT consulting firm. From what I have read she would be able to take courses at FSI on a space available basis. I assume she would be able to take IM classes. Is this correct? Does State Dept need computer programmers overseas? From reading the job description of IM its more centered on help desk/admin type of functions versus actual programming.

How many EPAP IM positions are typically advertised? Is a secret clearance sufficient? Or is TS mandatory for all EPAP IM positions?

joe123456
Jan 28, 2013
Diplomatic List

1. Are Specialist GSOs typically on the diplomatic list? I assume all FSOs are on the list.

2. What are the advantages being on the diplomatic list?

3. Are there any disadvantages being on the diplomatic list?

4. If an employee is on the diplomatic list, is his/her family also on the diplomatic list?

Auto Questions

1. Is it possible to ship two vehicles to an overseas assignment? I understand State will typically only pay for one vehicle. However, if the member pays for shipping the second vehicle....still entitled to diplomatic plates/no custom charges on second vehicle?

2. Can you make any money when selling your U.S. vehicle overseas?

3. Auto insurance overseas...do you typically get an insurance policy by a local insurer? Or do you use a company such as USAA? I am not sure USAA would cover vehicles in every part of the world.

Skandiaavity
Apr 20, 2005
1. It depends, I believe all Specialists and Generalists are on the Diplomatic list. Post decides, really.

2. There are two lists - official and admin/technical. Specialists tend to be on Admin/Technical staff. Unless they are IMO or MGMT or something, then they will be on the official list. The differences of the two lists is that 'official' diplomatic lists are immune from any and all prosecution in host country, while A&T staff are immune from everything but civil liabilities. Mind you, the Chief of Mission or D.C. can revoke your diplomatic priviledges any time, and DS follows up on all that. See the earlier discussion about 'host country laws'.. they tack on to U.S. laws, whichever is stricter within reasonable limits. For example; in some middle eastern countries, women must be fully clothed, not a piece of skin showing when outside. Diplomats could have exemption to that when out of a compound (if they're even allowed). On the flip side, weed may be legal in Amsterdam, but it's not necessarily legal for you.

You can get sweet stuff like VAT Exempt, Tax-Free purchases (car, etc), people will be a lot more friendly to you, etc... It depends on country.

4. It depends. From my experience yes, but I know it's not true for all countries. You/your family, provided US Citizens, can be issued Dip Passports and will usually get the visa.

----

1. It depends. Some countries, yes. Other countries, no. You'll find out when you get your post assignment. "it depends" becuase some countries have prohibitions on certain types of cars (age, model, driving seat orientation); and other countries will allow 1 U.S. and 1 local car.. another caveat, Title issues If your state participates in an e-Title issue, be prepared for a fight in getting it. DHS/CBP will not accept e-titles.

2. It depends. Yes, you can. Private sale. If you come out ahead, congrats. You would also be required to report that to DMV or State tax bureau. Be careful on price markup; it's a hella small world. Most diplomats prefer to sell to other diplomats to make the transaction easier. Just becuase you're a diplomat, it does not exempt you from 'running around' local laws for selling/buying a car.

3. It depends... It's generally advised you get a U.S. carrier (Geico, USAA) or something as primary; especially if you loan/finance your car. Then local supplementary insurance to tack onto that. Domestic insurance doesn't necessarily pay out all the time. If your car has a lien or a loan, you'll need a letter from them in addition to your title permitting you to ship your car overseas.

joe123456
Jan 28, 2013
Thanks for all the good info... especially E-Title, and the letter from finance company giving you permission to ship a vehicle overseas. I did a quick internet search and its common for some finance companies to deny owner requests to ship their auto overseas. I just bought a vehicle and this could be an issue for me.

Leif.
Mar 27, 2005

Son of the Defender
Formerly Diplomaticus/SWATJester

joe123456 posted:

Diplomatic List

1. Are Specialist GSOs typically on the diplomatic list? I assume all FSOs are on the list.

2. What are the advantages being on the diplomatic list?

3. Are there any disadvantages being on the diplomatic list?

4. If an employee is on the diplomatic list, is his/her family also on the diplomatic list?

You mean do they have diploamtic accreditation? There are three levels - diplomatic (highest protection), consular (slightly less) and admin & technical (even less). Most specialists are going to be A&T, but not always (depending on job). You'll get a whole session on this in orientation, but basically diplomatic privileges and immunities include both civil and criminal immunity, while A&T has much more limited civil immunities. It should never come up, it's just a little tidbit to be aware of. For #4, only your EFM/MOH family; grandma coming to visit for a weekend doesn't get it.

quote:

Auto Questions

1. Is it possible to ship two vehicles to an overseas assignment? I understand State will typically only pay for one vehicle. However, if the member pays for shipping the second vehicle....still entitled to diplomatic plates/no custom charges on second vehicle?

2. Can you make any money when selling your U.S. vehicle overseas?

3. Auto insurance overseas...do you typically get an insurance policy by a local insurer? Or do you use a company such as USAA? I am not sure USAA would cover vehicles in every part of the world.

1. Depends on the post, the bilateral agreement, and other things. For instance, at my present post, I cannot get diplomatic plates for a second vehicle (even if I purchase it locally) and would be required to pay the duty rate for the second vehicle (duty is 200% of the purchase price here, so that rules that one out. Yes, that means a $20,000 car will cost you $60,000 to buy. Most other countries are not so unreasonable)

2. There are regulations on this that may differ from post to post, but the big one is that you aren't allowed to use duty-free status to "make money" off the car. At my current assignment, even for a private sale, I cannot sell the car for more than I purchased it for (as doing so would be "making money" off my duty free status for being able to import the car in the first place.)

3. You will probably be required to get a local policy. You do not necessarily need a U.S. policy at the same time. I don't have a U.S. policy right now, for instance. However, many people will get either USAA (since we are eligible for it and it is a good policy), and if you are shipping your car instead of purchasing it at post, you may want to get insurance while it is in transit (most people I've see use Clements for this.) I know people who have had their car's container fall into the ocean, cars exploding on the boat, cars coming loose from their tiedowns and being scraped to death, etc. So transit insurance may not be a bad idea.

Zoots
Apr 19, 2007

No passport for you.

joe123456 posted:

3. Auto insurance overseas...do you typically get an insurance policy by a local insurer? Or do you use a company such as USAA? I am not sure USAA would cover vehicles in every part of the world.

Like everyone else says, get a U.S. policy. They'll have international rates and contact numbers typically, but YMMV. I'm on USAA since they already handle my banking and renter's/property insurance, so I get a small break on my policy. Of course, I drive a Mini in Rome as a twentysomething single male, so you can imagine my rates are pretty high. They did cover the cost of towing and some of the repairs when I had a breakdown, though.

I've already heard amazing stuff about Clements too - both auto and renter's/property. Can't speak to them personally. You'll see representatives of most of these companies around FSI (typically during A-100), so you can talk to someone in person.

Skandiaavity
Apr 20, 2005

joe123456 posted:

Thanks for all the good info... especially E-Title, and the letter from finance company giving you permission to ship a vehicle overseas. I did a quick internet search and its common for some finance companies to deny owner requests to ship their auto overseas. I just bought a vehicle and this could be an issue for me.

It's not so much an 'issue', just be prepared for a little fight. VA, in particular, was very stubborn/insistent on not giving any titles. I had to get the loan company and dealership to step in. Supposedly, they don't want to hit "print" for an e-title. They had to literally send over the e-title (took 45 days! :haw: ), after the dealership's insistence, to the loan company (why? i have no idea), who then got it and hit print, then fedex'ed that to me.

I dunno about that internet search. But most companies are allright with it, from my experience. As long as you mention you're with the State Department and going on official business, send over a copy of those orders, communicate your mail address/embassy address, contacts while in/out of the country, maybe an anchor (relatives) in the US, detailed auto information, etc. Some may require you to set up an auto-deduction/payment plan (which overseas you should do anyway). They see the stuff happen all the time with the military, it's really no different.

It completely depends on the country, though.

Skandiaavity fucked around with this message at 09:38 on Jan 29, 2013

TCD
Nov 13, 2002

Every step, a fucking adventure.
FYI on the car, you cannot sell it for more than you paid for it if the Dept shipped it.

As to the question on shipping it, some countries will not allow more than 1 combustion engine imported. If you're on the Dip list, some countries will let you get a 2nd vehicle in country plated (Dip plates) duty free. Some countries extend that courtesy to A/T staff. Some don't do any of the above. This can also change if you're posted to a Consulate vs the Embassy.

As to your question about your spouse working in the IM section, I'd bet money she'd need to have something higher than S. E: Oh, I see you asked about EPAP positions. My wife is an EPAP Environment, Science, Technology and Health (ESTH) Officer. She's basically a FSO for a tour - which means you need to have a TS. The number of EPAPs change all the time and it depends on how many EPAP positions can be funded as well as the quality of applicants. The ESTH section here really needed the extra spot, and my wife's resume fit the job extremely well.

E: Also, getting a domestic insurance (like USAA) to have auto coverage overseas can be problematic. I use Clements as the last two countries did not have USAA coverage. The two countries I've been in have also required a mandatory local policy.

Also about A/T, it depends. Half of the IRM Dept here are on the Dip list, half are not. As an A/T member, you're exempt from criminal immunity and immunity from civil jurisdiction extends only to their official acts. Now, what's "official" probably depends on a lot of things. I think Consulate staff have even less immunities than A/T staff. Could be wrong on that.

TCD fucked around with this message at 12:36 on Jan 29, 2013

Skandiaavity
Apr 20, 2005
Just as a general advice; a lot of FSO seem to confront that same issue. While nobody wants to give up a career, mutual career-oriented employment can often be rather difficult unless somebody stays stateside.

Employment in a host country is really up in the air and from what I've seen, not usually recommended. If she's working for a multinational consulting company, I can see her maybe going with you and working for them abroad. However, from my experience, contractors are not always cool with folks moving every 2 years to a different country. And if she's getting diplomatic status when she should be getting an employment visa, it's kind of a clusterfuck for everyone to sort that out. Not to mention if the consulting company has ties with the US Embassy that it's a conflict of interest.

on the other hand, it is an awesome life if you can get used to everything. If you're cool with just occasionally working, or filling in a needed spot (say being a facilities management/housing board/CLO/IMS/whateve), we have a few EFM goons here that can clue you in on how that process or day-to-day goes.

But definitely sit down and have a serious talk with your s/o... issues like, 'would they be able to give up their career for me? if not, are we willing to be separated for extended periods of time (ala deployment)? would my spouse be willing to take the FSO exam and certify with me as a tandem couple?" I say this because if you don't, it can eventually become a huge issue for you. Better to confront it now while you're in a comfort zone, than if you get accepted & get posted to a remote country where life issues are magnified.

Total Confusion
Oct 9, 2004

Skandiaavity posted:

Just as a general advice; a lot of FSO seem to confront that same issue. While nobody wants to give up a career, mutual career-oriented employment can often be rather difficult unless somebody stays stateside.

Employment in a host country is really up in the air and from what I've seen, not usually recommended. If she's working for a multinational consulting company, I can see her maybe going with you and working for them abroad. However, from my experience, contractors are not always cool with folks moving every 2 years to a different country. And if she's getting diplomatic status when she should be getting an employment visa, it's kind of a clusterfuck for everyone to sort that out. Not to mention if the consulting company has ties with the US Embassy that it's a conflict of interest.

on the other hand, it is an awesome life if you can get used to everything. If you're cool with just occasionally working, or filling in a needed spot (say being a facilities management/housing board/CLO/IMS/whateve), we have a few EFM goons here that can clue you in on how that process or day-to-day goes.


If your spouse isn't American, what sort of limitations are there on the work they could do at the embassy (I assume they wouldn't be able to have a position like TCD's wife, for example)?

TCD
Nov 13, 2002

Every step, a fucking adventure.

Gold and a Pager posted:

If your spouse isn't American, what sort of limitations are there on the work they could do at the embassy (I assume they wouldn't be able to have a position like TCD's wife, for example)?
Spouses that are not Americans can work in Commissaries and a few other random spots in the Embassy. In my experience, most jobs require clearances. Some only need S, some need higher.

To be eligible for EPAP positions, you must be able to acquire a TS clearance like those in the Foreign Service.

It’s really 50/50 if you can work outside the Mission. Sometimes it’s host country rules, other times it’s the Mission stipulations and others while it’s possible, sometimes the paperwork is just too complicated for HR.

Spouses that have skills like hair cutters, masseuses, artists, etc. seem to do really well. Those with “professional” jobs like IT, health, etc. can have complications finding a good match in the Embassy or something on the local economy. That said, every post I’ve been assigned, it’s been theoretically possible for spouses to work on the local economy.

d1rtbag
Sep 13, 2012

Eternal Man-Child
Since we're talking about spouses with careers, is there a need for counselors / therapists at some posts?

Business of Ferrets
Mar 2, 2008

Good to see that everything is back to normal.

d1rtbag posted:

Since we're talking about spouses with careers, is there a need for counselors / therapists at some posts?

Judging by the members of this forum, the need definitely is there.

joe123456
Jan 28, 2013
Do GSO specialists typically receive language training? Since GSOs work with a significant number of local hires, I assume that they would have many opportunities to go to language training.

Saho
Jun 9, 2012

joe123456 posted:

Do GSO specialists typically receive language training? Since GSOs work with a significant number of local hires, I assume that they would have many opportunities to go to language training.

Some. From what I've seen it's less than many generalists, more than many of the other specialists.

Zoots
Apr 19, 2007

No passport for you.

joe123456 posted:

Do GSO specialists typically receive language training? Since GSOs work with a significant number of local hires, I assume that they would have many opportunities to go to language training.

If the positions is language designated and the incumbent doesn't speak it - yes, FSI will provide it.

TCD
Nov 13, 2002

Every step, a fucking adventure.

Business of Ferrets posted:

Judging by the members of this forum, the need definitely is there.

:haw:

Homie S
Aug 6, 2001

This is what it means

Business of Ferrets posted:

Judging by the members of this forum, the need definitely is there.

Do people really view the P/RMOs as a curtailment ticket? Ours just got here and everyone jokes about how if they want to leave they just go to his office and it's magically going to happen.

Leif.
Mar 27, 2005

Son of the Defender
Formerly Diplomaticus/SWATJester

TCD posted:

As to your question about your spouse working in the IM section, I'd bet money she'd need to have something higher than S. E: Oh, I see you asked about EPAP positions. My wife is an EPAP Environment, Science, Technology and Health (ESTH) Officer. She's basically a FSO for a tour - which means you need to have a TS. The number of EPAPs change all the time and it depends on how many EPAP positions can be funded as well as the quality of applicants. The ESTH section here really needed the extra spot, and my wife's resume fit the job extremely well.

Yeah, any potential EFMs reading this may want to consider looking at the EPAP program while you wait, because it could be really cool if it applies to you. Seriously, an EPAP is essentially a full on FSO generalist. You'll write cables, do demarches, everything a normal FSO would. The only reason I haven't gone completely insane is that I have an EPAP economic officer who works with me, and like TCD's wife his resume fit the job extremely well, and we likewise desperately needed the position.

d1rtbag posted:

Since we're talking about spouses with careers, is there a need for counselors / therapists at some posts?

We had the P/RMO for AF swing by (maybe he's just the east, central, and south Africa guy, but I think he's got the whole bureau) recently. I unfortunately missed my chance to meet with him due to travel, which sucked, I was looking forward to it.

TCD posted:

Spouses that are not Americans can work in Commissaries and a few other random spots in the Embassy. In my experience, most jobs require clearances. Some only need S, some need higher.

Don't forget USAID, CDC, and other agencies that may be at post.

TCD
Nov 13, 2002

Every step, a fucking adventure.

Diplomaticus posted:

Yeah, any potential EFMs reading this may want to consider looking at the EPAP program while you wait, because it could be really cool if it applies to you. Seriously, an EPAP is essentially a full on FSO generalist. You'll write cables, do demarches, everything a normal FSO would. The only reason I haven't gone completely insane is that I have an EPAP economic officer who works with me, and like TCD's wife his resume fit the job extremely well, and we likewise desperately needed the position.


We had the P/RMO for AF swing by (maybe he's just the east, central, and south Africa guy, but I think he's got the whole bureau) recently. I unfortunately missed my chance to meet with him due to travel, which sucked, I was looking forward to it.


Don't forget USAID, CDC, and other agencies that may be at post.

Ah yes... However, not all of those are at every post. Anything EFM in the Department of Homeland Security, Defense, etc. normally require clearances... some S, some higher.

Vasudus
May 30, 2003
FSOT coming up on 2/2. I would like to think that I'm well educated in the relevant sections and then I get the random obscure questions in the guides that make me :stare:

Gumog
Mar 20, 2009
I have a lovely problem.

Back in 2010 for my State Department internship I filled out one of those massive personal history questionnaires of all my travel, overseas contacts, and activities. (SF-86?) The investigator told me to hold on to it.

I can't find it anywhere.

I did not lie or deliberately falsify anything. But, I'm really concerned that there may be some discrepancies if and when I re-do the form. What should I do if I get another interview? Can I get a copy from the investigators? Do they have a website?

Gumog fucked around with this message at 22:48 on Jan 30, 2013

problematique
Apr 3, 2008

What saves a man is to take a step. Then another step. It is always the same step, but you have to take it.

Gumog posted:

I have a lovely problem.

Back in 2010 for my State Department internship I filled out one of those massive personal history questionnaires of all my travel, overseas contacts, and activities. (SF-86?) The investigator told me to hold on to it.

I can't find it anywhere.

I did not lie or deliberately falsify anything. But, I'm really concerned that there may be some discrepancies if and when I re-do the form. What should I do if I get another interview? Can I get a copy from the investigators? Do they have a website?

Did you submit the eqip last time you held on to it?

I'd previously submitted an SF-86 a year ago for an unrelated thing and when I logged in to redo it for State all the information was magically already there.

That being said, ALWAYS save archival copies of anything you submit or do with the government. Taxes, investigations, medical records. Things will be lost or needed again.

Strudelmeyer
Sep 17, 2012

TCD posted:

Ah yes... However, not all of those are at every post. Anything EFM in the Department of Homeland Security, Defense, etc. normally require clearances... some S, some higher.

What is the EPAP?

Skandiaavity
Apr 20, 2005
Save your paperwork, always. Up to 7 years is good practice. Like a modified Gary Oldman quote: everryyy-thinggg!

Usual disclaimer, not a lawyer, internet advice, etc:

Mind you if you fill out the form it is not the same as submitting the form. If you submitted it, you can go and retrieve that copy online (I think...)

The investigators do their job pretty good. (they'll be the ones bringing it up. unless you'd like to volunteer that info.) If any disrespecancies come up, obviously you should have an explanation. If they're conflicting accounts, be very certain (and honest) how you answer it. (Note when you fill out the SF-86, it changes to be considered a legal document!) Speaking strictly from experience, they're usually OK with it if you forget something and own up to it when they ask in a follow-up interview. People forget, after all.

Worst case, you may have to go to DOHA Court (hearing & appeals) and then explain your case to a judge, who decides. It'll vary, obviously, but try to be simple as possible in any disrespecancy arguments (did you put down X on your past sf-86? or didn't you? if yes; then was X truthful? if so, why did you omit it?)

TCD
Nov 13, 2002

Every step, a fucking adventure.

Strudelmeyer posted:

What is the EPAP?

It's a program for spouses (EFMs).

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joe123456
Jan 28, 2013
Any advice for new GSOs? I hear that the RSO is typically the most hated at the embassy with the GSO not far behind. On the other hand I heard from a management officer filling a GSO job..."if the GSO is not happy, the embassy isn't happy. If the GSO is happy the embassy is happy."

joe123456 fucked around with this message at 06:25 on Jan 31, 2013

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