Reply to Should I take a big pay cut for a government job offer?

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[quote=Anonymous]So let's assume you work for a USAID/INL/PRM-type contractor and got into either State or USAID Foreign Service.

FSOs often have to spend very little money out of pocket for day to day life and end up being able to buy real estate investment properties and build significant savings, while counting down to a guaranteed pension. It's a really good deal. That said, they are an entitled bunch who learn how to nickel and dime the government for everything (within regulations).

Your contractor employer may offer similar benefits at first glance, but without the security and pension.

FSOs are a smart bunch in general but within a strictly defined system.

I would join USAID Foreign Service before I'd join State if I weren't sure if I wanted to commit to a whole career. USAID FSOs move up more quickly and get more independent responsibility much earlier than State FSOs. A USAID FSO may be leading an office in his second tour, or would be the deputy for the office. My sense is it takes longer in State -- many are reporting officers for several tours.

At State, of course you'd have to do a Consular tour adjudicating visas for a couple years -- fine if you're in it long term, but I bummer if you want to try out Foreign Service for a tour first.

Your spouse will be unemployed for stretches unless she's experienced and flexible enough to be put on proposals and project launches, etc. But she'd also be unemployed if OP started doing overseas tours with a contractor.

FS is relatively lucrative (for a middle class job) and you could always commit to five years and it probably won't hurt your chances of going back to contractor work (especially if you go into USAID FS).
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