Here, they receive practical experience performing the variety of security functions for which the Bureau is responsible in the United States, including background investigations on personnel, passport and visa fraud investigations, counterintelligence, and other criminal investigations. Domestic assignments also can include protection services for the Secretary of State and certain visiting foreign dignitaries or temporary assignment to an overseas post to perform a specific task. On to Greater Responsibility Special Agents spend a substantial portion of their careers abroad. There are Special Agents serving abroad at diplomatic posts. Overseas assignments offer great opportunity for career growth and usually occur immediately after the initial tour of duty in a domestic field office.
Assignment abroad can, however, occur much earlier depending upon needs of the service.
At U.S. embassies and consulates abroad, RSOs develop and implement the various aspects of a comprehensive security program designed to protect personnel, property, and information against terrorists, foreign intelligence agents, and criminals. RSOs work closely with top State Department officials and serve as operational supervisors of U.S. Marine Security Guard detachments. Domestic assignments are equally challenging and rewarding. An officer can aspire to managing field office programs or a Department headquarters office responsible for support operations. Satisfactory performance earns employees automatic grade and pay increases during the first 3 years.