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INTERNATIONAL
AFFAIRS

Don’t just value your job Find a job that values you

The United States does not fight alone, nor do we deter alone. The U.S. relies on strong alliances. Within the Department of the Air Force (DAF), both military and civilians cultivate deep, enduring relationships through security cooperation with our allies and partners to support global operations. DAF civilians in the International Affairs (IA) career field are trained with competencies necessary to meet the challenges of the ever-changing global political-military environment.

As a PALACE ACQUIRE (PAQ) Foreign Affairs Specialist within the IA career field, you’ll work side by side with leaders with years of experience dedicated to strengthening alliances and partnerships. Since IA civilians are at the forefront of international relations operations, the PAQs are afforded assignments to real-world projects with significant global impact. Successful completion of the PAQ program offers you an opportunity to join devoted IA civilians to make an impact on global security in a permanent position.

Career Paths

Foreign Affairs   |    Foreign Disclosure   |    Treaty Compliance   |    Country/Regional Management   |    Security Cooperation   |    Security Assistance   |    Political/Military Affairs

PAQ Qualifications

  • U.S. citizenship
  • Recent graduate (within two years of completing degree or within six years if a Veteran)
  • Bachelor’s or master’s degree in International/Global Affairs or related fields
  • GPA 2.95 or above
  • Ability to obtain Security Clearance funded by the Department of the Air Force (e.g., Background check)

PAQ Program Details

  • A formal three-year training and career development track
  • Real-world projects and missions
  • Mentoring provided by Senior leadership
  • Annual performance-based promotions
  • Placement into a permanent Air Force Civilian Service position once PAQ Program is successfully completed

PAQ Benefits

  • Student Loan Repayment Program
  • Tuition Assistance toward a graduate degree while in the PAQ program
  • Recruitment Bonus for selected positions
  • Paid move to employment location (if required upon conversion to PAQ program)