The work of an Operational Officer is far from boring. It's not only interesting but an essential element to what we do.

Our Operational Officers (grade B3) in the Diplomatic Service specialise in the practical side of Diplomatic work. This could range from inspecting visa applications and aiding distressed British nationals overseas to helping coordinate policy at an international level.

The first three years are usually spent working in London and followed by an overseas posting, usually in a service delivery role e.g. UKvisas or consular.

Operational Officers also manage clerical staff in the UK and locally-engaged workers when abroad. Dealing with staff training needs and writing annual appraisals are just two of the many tasks involved.

A Day in the life…

Ben Luckock - Entry Clearance Officer Islamabad

I had decided that I was interested in working in government whilst studying history at university and have always loved overseas travel. I guess the Foreign Office was an obvious choice. Although the process of recruitment and security clearances took several months, it was well worth the wait.

My first posting was in the Conference and Visits Group where I joined a team responsible for arranging the Foreign Secretary's travel overseas. Not only was this a fascinating insight into the mechanics of diplomacy but it provided me ample opportunity to travel, both on 'recces' and with the Foreign Secretary himself.

Within a year I had been to places as diverse as Kosovo, Australia, Slovenia and Mexico. A highlight of this time was the buzz of a UN development conference attended by both George Bush and Fidel Castro. After two years I bid for and received an overseas posting to Islamabad, working as an entry clearance officer. Whilst the work was intense and pressured, it provided a unique insight into a foreign culture through daily contact with the Pakistani public. I find the chance to live, work and experience other cultures one the greatest draws to a career in the Diplomatic Service. Although the posting was only for one year (the usual being 3-4), I made the most of my time there and travelled extensively. Highlights were vibrant Lahore and the solitude and majestic beauty of the Karakoram Mountains. At the end of my posting I took advantage of the Foreign Office's flexible travel package and travelled back to London overland, through Northern Pakistan, China, Kyrgystan, Kazakhstan, Russia and the new EU member states.

I have been back in London for a few months on full time training and am due overseas again shortly, this time as a 'floater'. This unflatteringly-titled position will allow me to travel even more widely, completing short 'floats' of up to six months at a time in any of our overseas missions where there is a requirement for an extra pair of hands. The months of training are essential, as I will be expected to carry out almost all of the Foreign Office's operational business overseas, from inspecting visa applications to aiding distressed British nationals and negotiating lease contracts on embassy properties. After two or three years floating I think that I will look forward to the relative permanence of a home posting and, hopefully, promotion.

Salary

The starting salary for Operational Officers is £22,568 (inclusive of a £3,000 London Location Allowance – payable when working in London).

What skills do I need?

• An interest in foreign affairs
• Open to living in different societies and cultures
• Ability to think on your feet, show initiative and be flexible
• Able to be self-reliant, adaptable and solve problems working individually or as part of a team

Education and official requirements

Applicants must meet our nationality and residency requirements.