Careers in Commercial Service

What to expect when applying

The U.S. and Foreign Commercial Services typically accept applications once every two years, but may increase or decrease acceptance frequency depending on staffing requirements. The process consists of an online application followed by an in-person assessment for successful applicants.

To be notified of open Commercial Officer positions, send an email to CSCareers@trade.gov to be added to the recruitment listserv. Individuals on the listserv will receive notice and a link to new applications on USAJOBS. 

How to apply

To apply for a Civil Service position with the U.S. Commercial Service, visit USAJOBS for current listings.

Please read carefully and follow all the instructions on the USAJOBS website. Allow yourself several hours to submit your application.

All applicants will be required to take the U.S. Commercial Service Assessment. The assessment is a competitive, oral and written examination used to recruit and select new, tenure-track Foreign Service Officers into the U.S. Commercial Service. Candidates who pass an initial online application screening process receive an invitation for the one-day oral assessment. 

Top candidates who pass the oral assessment exam are placed on a list called the Rank Order Register, which is valid for two years. The agency uses this Register to extend conditional offers of employment to candidates, as vacancies become available, pending the successful completion of a Top Secret security clearance, a medical clearance, and drug testing. 

For more information on the career of a Commercial Officer, please read the Assessment Information Package.