Travel Support Specialist

The EUR-IO/EX/GSD Professional Support Services team ensures the operational effectiveness of the Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs (EUR) and the Bureau of International Organization Affairs (IO). These services provide comprehensive administrative, analytical, and programmatic support that enables both bureaus to carry out their diplomatic, foreign policy, and international development objectives efficiently and effectively. By supporting day-to-day operations, facilitating interagency coordination, and ensuring compliance with Department of State policies and procedures, these professional services help maintain the continuity and integrity of overseas posts and Washington-based offices.

The Bureau of International Organization Affairs, Office of Conferences and Events (IO/C) Travel Support Specialist provides comprehensive administrative and logistical support for official travel related to international engagements. This role is essential in coordinating travel arrangements, assisting travelers through various processes, and ensuring compliance with established policies and procedures. The position supports both domestic and international travel needs, often requiring guidance for individuals unfamiliar with government systems or regulations. It involves managing travel documentation, resolving issues, responding to inquiries, and preparing reports related to travel activities and costs. The specialist contributes to the smooth execution of international conference participation and plays a key role in supporting the broader mission through efficient travel operations. The following reflects management's definition of essential functions for this job but does not restrict the tasks that may be assigned. Management may assign additional duties and responsibilities to this job at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons. The ideal candidate will:

Performs a wide range of administrative support services and travel coordination duties in support of U.S. delegates attending international conferences. This includes both logistical and clerical responsibilities that facilitate smooth delegate participation. The Office of Conferences and Events (IO/C) functions as a key enabler in advancing U.S. values and interests in multilateral forums through effective conference management and delegate support services.
• Coordinates both foreign and domestic travel requests for delegates from the Department of State, other U.S. government agencies, and the private sector who are participating in international conferences.
• Prepares travel orders and authorizations in the E2 travel system, often for non-U.S. government travelers who do not have existing E2 accounts or familiarity with federal travel regulations.
• Manages and enters financial account information for travelers during the establishment of E2 travel accounts, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
• Assists travelers with the submission and processing of travel vouchers and settlements in accordance with applicable policies and procedures.
• Responds to inquiries regarding travel policies, procedures, entitlements, and other related matters.
• Researches and locates travel policy regulations and official references to address and resolve travel-related questions and issues.
• Applies a working knowledge of federal travel policy to troubleshoot and resolve challenges encountered by travel arrangers.
• Communicates travel entitlement information clearly and explains use of the E2 Solutions Travel System to new or unfamiliar users.
• Provides travelers with guidance and information regarding government-issued travel charge cards.
• Prepares both special and recurring reports on travel-related expenses, conference logistics, and associated administrative matters.

Skills/Qualifications: The ideal candidate has comprehensive knowledge of domestic and foreign travel regulations, policies, and procedures-such as the Federal Travel Regulations (FTR), the Department of State's Foreign Affairs Manual (FAM), and Bureau-specific travel guidelines-as well as proficiency in automated systems like the E2 Solutions Travel System. This expertise enables the candidate to coordinate the travel program effectively, resolve both routine and complex travel issues, ensure compliance with program requirements, and support efforts to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of travel operations. The candidate can provide well-informed recommendations to improve the travel program and demonstrates strong interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills. These skills are essential for drafting correspondence related to conferences, travel services, and other administrative matters; building and maintaining productive relationships with individuals across the office, bureau, department, other government agencies, international organizations, and private sector representatives; and clearly explaining policies and procedures to customers with varying levels of familiarity. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, E2, and other systems commonly used by IO/C is also required.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent, along with a minimum of two (2) years of relevant professional experience;
  OR
• More than fifteen (15) years of relevant professional experience, including at least five (5) years of in-country experience in Ukraine.

Clearance: Secret clearance required.

Physical Requirements: The ideal candidate must at a minimum be able to meet the following physical requirements of the job with or without a reasonable accommodation:

• Ability to perform repetitive motions with the hands, wrists, and fingers.
• Ability to engage in and follow audible communications in emergency situations.
• Ability to sit for prolonged periods at a desk and working on a computer.

The Nakupuna Companies use a market-based compensation strategy to ensure that our employees are compensated within applicable market ranges commensurate with multiple factors, including but not limited to the individual's particular combination of education, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, as well as contract-specific affordability, organizational requirements, and position location. The projected compensation range for this position is $75,000.00 to $95,000.00 (annualized USD). The salary range displayed represents the typical salary range for this position and is just one component of Nakupuna Companies total compensation package for employees.