Great for Upward Mobility - Government Information Specialist U.S. Department of State Employee Review
- 5.0Sep 20, 2023Government Information SpecialistCurrent Employee, more than 3 yearsArlington, VA
Pros
- The work culture is more positive than other agencies’ work culture. - If you find a promotion-heavy job category, you can stay in for several years with consistent promotions every 52 weeks. - Health benefits are pretty sound and with reliable coverage and pricing. - Retirement benefits are great. - Parental leave is ample for mothers and fathers. - Telework flexibility is prevalent in most positions. - The agency cares about raising up good leaders. - TDY opportunities can be plentiful and very rewarding. - DOS advocates for details with other offices and agencies to encourage relationships within the federal government, so this can ultimately lead to better promotion opportunities for employees.
Cons
- PTO accrual is bleak. - The best opportunity for positions is often in high cost-of-living cities. - Performance recognition can be hard to come by. - The wait to promote to the next grade (52 consecutive weeks of full time work) can make-or-break desires to stay for some employees. - Equating private-sector salary and experience to GS scale is difficult and can often result in an undercut salary.
Other Employee Reviews
- 5.0Dec 5, 2023Program ManagerFormer Employee
Pros
Exciting and meaningful work, nice benefits, and great travel.
Cons
Government bureaucracy is frustrating sometimes.
- 4.0Nov 29, 2023Human Resources Specialist (HR Specialist)Current Employee, more than 3 yearsOrlando, FL
Pros
Fast transition to higher grades, FS opportunities overseas and locally, TS clearance that allows you to apply for different jobs gov wide, excellent student loan repayment program that pays up to 10k annually to retain employees and most positions allows to telework +40%
Cons
TS Takes about 6-8 months to be granted, low key profile, most positions do not allow to work remotely from a different location (other than the one you were hired)
