ACS Assistant

About the Organization:
The U.S. Mission in Ethiopia, based in Addis Ababa, represents American interests and provides a wide range of diplomatic, consular, and public services. It is committed to upholding the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and service to both U.S. citizens and the Ethiopian community. Working at the Mission provides employees with a unique opportunity to engage in meaningful work that impacts people’s lives, contributes to international relations, and supports the broader goals of U.S. foreign policy. Employees gain exposure to a multicultural work environment, work closely with experienced professionals, and receive training and development opportunities that enhance career growth. The Mission strongly encourages applications from women and underrepresented groups to promote diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

Job Description:
The American Citizen Services (ACS) Assistant plays a critical role in supporting U.S. citizens living or traveling in Ethiopia. This position serves as a primary point of contact for American citizens seeking consular assistance, including passport services, citizenship matters, and emergency support. The ACS Assistant assists individuals in distress, communicates effectively with U.S. citizens, and helps maintain the Mission’s website and emergency messaging systems.

This role also involves collaborating with the ACS Chief, consular officers, and other sections within the Mission to ensure preparedness for crises and emergencies. The ACS Assistant supports administrative functions within the consular section, providing high-quality service, maintaining confidentiality, and representing the U.S. Mission in professional interactions with local authorities and the public.

The position requires occasional travel within the consular district for welfare checks, prison visits, court appearances, and outreach events. This is an excellent opportunity for motivated individuals to develop expertise in consular services while contributing meaningfully to citizen protection and support.

Educational Qualification:

  • Completion of at least two years of college or university studies is required.
  • Applicants should highlight their education in their application, specifying relevant courses or certifications.

Work Experience:

  • Minimum of two years of experience in administrative work, case management, or customer service is required.
  • Experience in handling sensitive information, managing client inquiries, and performing detailed administrative tasks is highly desirable.
  • Candidates are expected to demonstrate professional judgment, initiative, and discretion in dealing with both routine and unexpected situations.

Required Skills and Competencies:

  • Fluency in both English and Amharic, including reading, writing, and speaking, is required. Language skills may be tested.
  • Knowledge of local cultural, social, and legal contexts is essential for effectively supporting U.S. citizens.
  • Strong computer skills, including proficiency in MS Word, Outlook, Excel, and PowerPoint.
  • Ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, and maintain discretion when handling confidential information.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills to work with diverse communities, government officials, and internal teams.
  • Initiative, common sense, tact, and adaptability to address unique and unforeseen challenges.
  • Commitment to high professional standards and delivering excellent customer service in all interactions.

Job Location:

  • Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
  • The position is full-time and involves occasional travel within the consular district.

Employment Type and Salary:

  • Permanent position with indefinite appointment, subject to successful completion of the probationary period.
  • Work schedule: Full-time, 40 hours per week.
  • Salary: USD $14,371 per year.
  • Promotion potential: LE-8.
  • Relocation expenses will not be reimbursed.

Professional Growth and Impact:

  • Working as an ACS Assistant provides exposure to international service, crisis management, and citizen protection.
  • Employees gain valuable experience in administrative management, cross-cultural communication, and public engagement.
  • Opportunities to work closely with experienced consular officers and contribute to life-saving interventions during emergencies.
  • The role encourages career advancement through training, skill development, and mentorship within the U.S. Mission framework.

Benefits and Other Information:

  • The U.S. Mission offers competitive benefits for locally employed staff, including leave, health support, and professional development programs.
  • Eligible Family Member applicants may discuss specific benefits with the HR Office.
  • Hiring preference is provided to eligible family members, U.S. citizens, veterans, and current employees under defined conditions.
  • Current employees with probationary status or performance concerns may not be eligible for this vacancy.

How to Apply:

  • Interested applicants should apply online through the U.S. Mission’s careers portal. Ensure all relevant experience, education, language skills, and computer or job-related competencies are clearly detailed in the application.
  • Required documents include work experience records, proof of education (two years of college/university studies), and any applicable computer training certificates. Scanned certificates or attachments are not mandatory.
  • Eligible Family Members must also provide proof of sponsor assignment, passport copy, and relevant veteran documentation if applicable.
  • Incomplete applications may be disqualified. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further steps.
  • The deadline to submit applications is April 2, 2026.

Encouragement to Apply:

  • The U.S. Mission welcomes applicants from all backgrounds, with special encouragement for women and individuals from underrepresented groups to apply.
  • This is a unique opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the safety, well-being, and support of U.S. citizens in Ethiopia while building a professional career in international public service.
  • Applicants are urged to provide thorough and thoughtful responses in their applications to demonstrate their qualifications, experience, and commitment to the role.

Next Steps:

  • The HR Office will review applications and contact shortlisted candidates for interviews.
  • For questions about the position or application process, applicants may contact the HR Office at AddisHRO@state.gov or by phone at 000-000-0000.
  • Additional information about employment opportunities at the U.S. Mission in Ethiopia is available at https://et.usembassy.gov/jobs/.

Key Takeaways:

  • This role is critical for delivering high-quality consular services and protecting U.S. citizens abroad.
  • It offers substantial professional development, hands-on experience, and a chance to engage in meaningful work within a respected international organization.
  • Only complete applications submitted by the deadline, April 2, 2026, will be considered.

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