What Does a Foreign Service Officer Do?
Decision-making, policy-making and advocating American business interests are just a few of the objectives of Economic
Officers. They apply their technical expertise to analyzing the effects of a country's economic situation on its political
climate and on U.S. economic interests. They work with U.S. and foreign business leaders as well as government
decision-makers on some of the most cutting-edge issues in foreign policy, such as technology, the environment, and
HIV/AIDS, as well as in the more traditional areas of trade and finance. Versatility, sound judgment and strong business
skills are all hallmarks of Economic Officers.
Economic Officers:
- develop a network of contacts in foreign and U.S. government institutions and businesses, as well as in
international organizations, to advance U.S. economic interests
- resolve bilateral trade disputes and negotiate with our trading partners to further liberalize world trade
- advise officials on policy developments and make recommendations for U.S. government action
- negotiate trade-related agreements and treaties
- coordinate financial assistance to troubled areas
- develop trade policy, enforce export controls, and promote open markets
Equal Opportunity Employer.
