Diplomat
O*NET 11-1011.90 · SOC 11-1011
Diplomat is a risky career choice. Median pay is $142k a year with -2% projected growth through 2035 (declining) and about 400 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Represent national interests in negotiations with foreign governments and organizations
- →Analyze political, economic, and social developments in assigned countries
- →Draft diplomatic cables, policy briefs, and position papers
- →Build relationships with foreign officials, NGOs, and business leaders
- →Coordinate crisis response and protect citizens abroad during emergencies
Education & How to Get In
Diplomat roles typically require a master's degree, doctorate, or professional degree. This is a long-term investment, expect 6–10 years of post-secondary education, but the depth of expertise commands strong compensation and career stability.
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Work Environment
Leadership, offices, client meetings, or hybrid
Collaborative, frequent interaction with teams, clients, or patients
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Diplomat involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Diplomat?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Diplomat Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Diplomat is projected to decline 2% from 2025 to 2035, declining for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·45% social/interpersonal tasks, hard for AI to replace
- ·29% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Diplomat make?
The median Diplomat earns $142k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Diplomat jobs?
Our model puts Diplomat at 29 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 45% social/interpersonal tasks, hard for AI to replace; 29% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace.
Is Diplomat a growing field?
Employment is projected to shrink 2% between 2025 and 2035, which is declining. That works out to roughly 400 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Diplomat?
Diplomat roles generally require a master's, doctorate or professional degree, so plan for graduate study rather than a bachelor's alone.
How long does it take to become a Diplomat?
Typically six to ten years, typically a master's, doctorate or professional degree. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 5 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Diplomat career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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