State Department Diplomatic Security Careers, Featuring RPCV Becky McNight and Recruiter Dave Pernal

In this episode Jodi discusses careers in Diplomatic Security within the U.S. State Department, specifically focusing on the position of Special Agent. 

Many of us may falsely assume that Diplomatic Security personnel are all either ex-military or former police officers, but that's not the case, and the State Department is very interested in recruiting from our talented, culturally competent pool of RPCVs for these positions. If you're interested in a career overseas, this is a great opportunity! 

Listen to this podcast to learn more about the position and what they're looking for from State Department Recruitment Specialist David Pernal, plus hear insight from Becky McNight (RPCV Mauritania, '03—'05), who currently serves in the role of Diplomatic Security Special Agent in The Gambia.  

NOTE: The 2022 Diplomatic Security Special Agent vacancy announcement referenced in this podcast was open for one week only, and closed on February 1, 2022.  This recruitment window usually happens around the same time every year, so if you missed it this year, mark your calendar to look for it again on USAJobs next year. 

Featured Guests:

Dave Pernal, Global Recruitment Specialist at the State Department, who shares information about opportunities and the selection process for careers with Diplomatic Security, and why RPCVs make great candidates for such positions.

Becky McNight (Mauritania 2003–05) who currently works in the Diplomatic Security division of the State Department. Becky shares her own career trajectory, her fulfilling career, and how her Peace Corps service positioned her for working with Diplomatic Security.