Is the IC Right for You?
Intelligence Careers

Analysis

Science & Technology

Information Technology

Intelligence Collection

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Are you looking for a job…or a career? Are you interested in the world around you? Are you a topic expert? Do you have foreign language proficiencies? Do you want to make a difference? Help protect your country? Work with the best and brightest? Solve difficult, analytic and technical problems? If so, you may wish to pursue work within the Analysis Career.

Analysts, also known as Intelligence Analysts or Intelligence Officers, manage and produce intelligence on regional, transnational, scientific and technical, missile, and medical topics. Key functions include conducting research and gathering information, identifying intelligence gaps, interpreting and evaluating information from multiple (and sometimes contradictory) sources, monitoring trends and events related to a particular country or issue, and preparing written and oral assessments based on current events. Your customers will include national policymakers, military commanders, and other Intelligence Community members.

Analysts across the Community work in many different specialty areas. As a result, relevant skills, knowledge, and education vary according to the specialty area in which the analyst works. Analysts may possess expertise of a particular country or geographic region or may understand a particular issue in-depth. Common skills include strong oral communication, written communication, interpersonal, and critical thinking/analytical skills. The ability to work under tight deadlines and to work within a team environment is also important. Analysts often possess bachelor's or more advanced degrees in one of the following academic disciplines: computer science, chemistry, geography, international economics, political science, regional studies, international affairs, physics, mathematics, engineering, foreign language, biological science, or related medical fields such as epidemiology and toxicology. Foreign language proficiency is desired, but not required.

The Intelligence Community stresses the importance of continual learning. Extensive in-house classroom and on-the-job training are provided. Establishing and maintaining relationships with colleagues throughout the Intelligence Community and within the private sector is encouraged. Opportunities for foreign and domestic travel may be available.

If you are up to the challenge, read about the vast number of occupations available within this career by clicking on the "Analysis Occupations" link .

US citizenship is required. All applicants must successfully complete an extensive background investigation. Some positions may also require medical and psychological examinations and a polygraph interview.