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Central Intelligence Agency
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Careers at CIA

Intelligence Collection Analyst

Work Schedule: Full Time
Salary: $46,460 – $90,698*
Location: Washington, DC metropolitan area


Intelligence collection analysts study the intelligence-gathering programs, policies, and capabilities of the US Government as they relate to the nation's highest national security priorities. Their study has four main goals:

  • To drive intelligence collection on behalf of CIA analysts and clandestine operators.
  • To inform a wide range of intelligence consumers—from senior policymakers to all-source analysts—about the strengths and weaknesses of collection on key issues.
  • To develop policies and guidelines facilitating information sharing while protecting sources and methods.
  • To influence the development and acquisition of future collection systems by representing the Directorate of Intelligence and CIA in numerous interagency forums.


As is the case with analysts across the Directorate of Intelligence, collection analysts research and analyze data and prepare written products and briefings. Unlike other analysts, collection analysts focus more on how intelligence is collected than on the foreign intelligence issue itself. Collection analysts evaluate which systems produce the most valuable and relevant information and identify collection gaps. Collection analysts document the Agency's information needs, communicating these to the intelligence collector organizations. Collection analysts represent Agency interests and advise senior Agency decisionmakers on the application of assets, formulation of intelligence policy, and allocation of resources to effect the collection against the nation's foreign intelligence requirements. In carrying out these tasks, collection analysts draft cables and memoranda, work with sophisticated databases and computer systems, and participate in diverse committees and working groups. As part of their development, all collection analysts are encouraged to network with counterparts throughout CIA and the Intelligence Community, to attend professional meetings, and to maintain and broaden their professional ties through academic study. Collection analysts may also pursue additional studies in fields relevant to their areas of responsibility.

*Higher starting salary possible depending on experience level.

Minimum requirements include a bachelor's degree in a variety of fields, such as political science, international studies, national security, history, geography library science, remote sensing, statistics, or a closely related discipline. GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is also required, along with excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, well-developed interpersonal skills, excellent writing and briefing skills, and an ability to convey complex information in a clear, concise manner. Analysts are expected to be comfortable using computers, because significant portions of their work employ complex databases. Intelligence collection experience is preferred—but not required—and military experience is valued.

All applicants must successfully complete a thorough medical and psychological exam, a polygraph interview, and an extensive background investigation. US citizenship is required.

To be considered suitable for Agency employment, applicants must generally not have used illegal drugs within the last twelve months. The issue of illegal drug use prior to twelve months ago is carefully evaluated during the medical and security processing.

Important Notice: Friends, family, individuals, or organizations may be interested to learn that you are an applicant for or an employee of the CIA. Their interest, however, may not be benign or in your best interest. You cannot control whom they would tell. We therefore ask you to exercise discretion and good judgment in disclosing your interest in a position with the Agency. You will receive further guidance on this topic as you proceed through your CIA employment processing.

To Apply:

Submit Resume Online


Note:
Multiple submissions are unnecessary and will slow the processing of your resume. Of course, if you made an error in your submission or need to update your resume, you may submit another resume. The second resume will overwrite the first.

An equal opportunity employer and a drug-free work force.


Posted: Apr 21, 2007 05:38 PM
Last Updated: Feb 21, 2008 03:13 PM
Last Reviewed: Feb 21, 2008 03:13 PM