What does it take to become an US Ambassador?

Question

I always wondered if Ambassadors are just friends of some higher up since they get what seems to be a pretty cush job. What do they do anyway?

Answer 1

appointment from the President

Answer 2

I was looking at the state department website concerning this the other day. It seems you would have to work as a foreign affairs officer as a political officer for about 16yrs. Follow the link for a better description.

Answer 3

Probably the same as it takes to be a politician - the ability to do nothing much but get paid a lot for doing it.