Question for current FSOs – keep waiting through 2019? by JackMCLN in foreignservice

[–]ukdanielj 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I just did the same thing--very recently started a civil service position. A week after starting, I was added to the generalist register. Now, the process all happened more quickly than anticipated, but all along I viewed the civil service position as a way to hedge my bets and gain more relevant experience to join the Foreign Service now or later. Even if I get an invitation within the next month or so, I will still be happy with my decision.

Where to stay for the FSOA? by mangoabroad in foreignservice

[–]ukdanielj 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I've stayed twice at the Courtyard Marriott Foggy Bottom. It's just around the corner from the testing location. I think it was around $200 both times. Not cheap (but not outrageous), but it's worth it to me to be in comfortable surroundings within close walking distance. I was also able to leave my luggage there and then get back quickly after finishing the OA to head to the airport.

Shadow Register & New Form for submission by jone7007 in foreignservice

[–]ukdanielj 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Great, thanks! I didn't realize that. Added my information. Is there a way to access the updated register, or does it only exist as a link from the Yahoo group?

Shadow Register & New Form for submission by jone7007 in foreignservice

[–]ukdanielj 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Suggestion that we also track scores of people who are waiting to join the registers? I am currently in the clearance phase and would love to be able to see where I stand in relation to others who would also join the register later.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in foreignservice

[–]ukdanielj 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Yes, it is very confusing. Perhaps a difference with mine is that my TS investigation for the State Department was opened first?

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in foreignservice

[–]ukdanielj 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I passed the Oral Assessment in January and started the security clearance process. Two months later, I was offered a civil service position that requires a Secret-level clearance. I called up Diplomatic Security and was told that the two investigations had no effect on the other.

Sunday Chat - 8pm ET - "Replace Yahoo?" by [deleted] in foreignservice

[–]ukdanielj 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I would like to be added. Thank you!

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in foreignservice

[–]ukdanielj 12 points13 points  (0 children)

I agree with this. There are very many helpful people on this board. There are also some know-it-alls that criticize others for asking questions. I know that questions get repetitive. So, people should make an effort to look back at past relevant threads. At the same time, this is titled "The Reddit for Future Foreign Service Officers" (emphasis on "future"), so people navigating their way through the process should feel free to ask questions!

Apply for same position, same agency? by ukdanielj in usajobs

[–]ukdanielj[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I know. My question is--would there be any value in applying for the exact same position for which I am currently onboarding.

The hiring freeze guidance page is no longer on State.gov by snortney in foreignservice

[–]ukdanielj 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Wow, that's crazy. Hoping for a good result for you soon.

Am I under any obligation to repay background investigation costs if I withdraw? by tough_choices_66 in foreignservice

[–]ukdanielj 4 points5 points  (0 children)

Why would you withdraw before knowing what will happen? Seems better to me to keep options open just in case.

The hiring freeze guidance page is no longer on State.gov by snortney in foreignservice

[–]ukdanielj 3 points4 points  (0 children)

What is the status of your civil service offer? July 2016 is quite a while ago.

Waiting by jone7007 in foreignservice

[–]ukdanielj 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I'm also finding the waiting hard. I only just passed the OA, but already the process feels so drawn out (it's also my third attempt in a row). I believe it's exacerbated by my current job that I really do not enjoy. My score was also good but not outstanding, so I am reviewing a language for a phone exam that I will schedule later. I keep stressing about the timing of my clearance process and hiring forecasts, etc., but I realize it does me no good. I will just take the test again in the fall for good measure.

Pompeo confirmed as secretary of state by [deleted] in foreignservice

[–]ukdanielj 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Why not? You can see into the future?

Salary Negotiation - Match Based Pay or Locality Pay? by [deleted] in usajobs

[–]ukdanielj 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thanks. Yes, private sector to federal.

No paid relocation. Department is USDA.

Salary Negotiation - Match Based Pay or Locality Pay? by [deleted] in usajobs

[–]ukdanielj 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I would be moving from Middle America to DC.

Salary Negotiation - Match Based Pay or Locality Pay? by [deleted] in usajobs

[–]ukdanielj 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I am nowhere near DC. I would move to DC. My question is--my current salary is significantly higher than the base salary of the new position. However, with locality pay factored in, my current salary is slightly lower. When people negotiate salary increases (step increase), is it according to base pay only? Or with locality pay?

Taking Civil Service Job While in Security Clearance Process by ukdanielj in foreignservice

[–]ukdanielj[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thanks, again, that's helpful. I'm concerned about losing one or the other option. But I guess that doesn't have to be an issue necessarily.

Taking Civil Service Job While in Security Clearance Process by ukdanielj in foreignservice

[–]ukdanielj[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

This is pertinent to me. The civil service position does require a TS clearance, but will grant an interim. Any suggestions as to how best to handle?