[1] After the long probation, IFS officer is attached with one of the embassy depending on the language specialisation he/she got during the probation.
[2] Regarding the work load, It is not as compared with IAS and IPS but of course with huge responsibility.....It depends on the country where you will work. In the present times, the work load is increasing as India is having large trade with several country.
[3] I don't have the exact salary figure at Germany.
[4] Generally, posting is done on the option taken by probationer during training along with language specialisation.....UPSC rank, qualification and other academic records also matters...though at senior level, one can be posted at any place with due political consideration...
[5] Since IFS training is long enough so probationer keep their spouse with them.
[6] Seats in IFS is generally within 20-40 range....due to increasing Indian clout in international affairs, seats are expected to be increased in coming years but not like IAS and IPS.
[7] There is a huge scope in IFS for study leave and other higher courses at international institutions. GOI does provide scholarships and sponsor these degrees along with a bond.
[8]The safe rank is with in 80 in general category though depends on the vacancies in a particular year in IAS and IFS.
I hope I am able to reply atleast some of your queries...further query is welcome...keep blogging...
