FAS Foreign Service Careers

The Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) is one of the U.S. government’s six foreign affairs agencies as designated by the Foreign Service Act of 1980. The core mission of FAS is to facilitate trade and international cooperation, which are critical to the vitality of the U.S. agricultural sector.  

The FAS team includes more than 150 Foreign Service officers posted around the globe. FAS agricultural attachés serve as the eyes, ears, and voice of American agriculture around the world. They are the front‐line professionals representing the Department of Agriculture in nearly 100 overseas field offices at U.S. diplomatic missions covering 193 countries. 

"To promote U.S. agricultural exports around world and help American farmers make a better living, we need talented and passionate individuals. Are you one of them?

"If you are looking for a career that is both meaningful and challenging, consider taking part in our Foreign Service selection process. We hope to hear from you!"

-FAS Administrator Daniel B. Whitley

Is the Foreign Service Right for You?

As a Foreign Service officer, you can expect to spend two-thirds of your career overseas. You’ll have the opportunity to experience foreign cultures, make friends around the world, and help shape history.

Your day-to-day work will be varied and ever-changing. One day you might be out in the field analyzing local crop production and the next you might be meeting with government ministers about a sensitive trade policy issue. You could wind up organizing events to promote U.S. food and beverage products to consumers overseas or you might find yourself negotiating with local customs officials to facilitate entry of a U.S. commodity shipment into your host country.

Foreign Service Trainee Program (FST)

Prior to working overseas, foreign service candidates participate in on average 2.5 to 3.5 years of a comprehensive training program to improve their skills in areas including U.S. trade policy, marketing, foreign assistance programs, data analysis, writing, language, and other areas as determined by the needs of the agency. The FST program also includes weekly seminars, writing workshops, a mentorship program, a buddy program, and leadership development opportunities. Area and language studies may also be included to prepare for an overseas assignment after a candidate is posted.

Learn more with this short video...