The mission of the Directorate of Operations is to strengthen national security and foreign policy objectives through the collection of human intelligence (HUMINT) and Covert Action.

The CIA is one of 16 agencies in the IC. The CIA is comprised of four directorates - one of which is the DO. The DO serves as the clandestine arm of the CIA, collecting human source intelligence (HUMINT) worldwide through human and technical means. In addition, the DO serves as the national authority for the coordination, de-confliction and evaluation of clandestine operations across the Intelligence Community.

The Director of the Directorate of Operations (DDO) leads the DO workforce and the Clandestine HUMINT Community. In coordination with the HUMINT Community, the DDO jointly establishes and implements Community HUMINT standards and best practices; integrates the Community's operational HUMINT capabilities through collaborative planning, targeting, and synchronized operations; and monitors and evaluates the performance and status of the Clandestine HUMINT Enterprise.

Scientists, engineers, economists, lawyers, historians, linguists, mathematicians, secretaries, accountants and computer specialists are but a few of the professionals continually in demand. Much of the Agency’s work, like that done in academic institutions, requires research, careful evaluation, and writing of reports that end up on the desks of this nation’s policymakers. Applicants are expected to have a college degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0 and must be willing to relocate to the Washington, D.C., area. Selection for Agency employment is highly competitive and employees must successfully complete a polygraph and medical examination and a background investigation before entering on duty. The Agency endorses equal employment opportunity for all employees. For further information, see the CIA Careers page.

The DO is shaped by a diverse ethnic, educational and professional cadre. Common qualities of DO Officers include, a strong record of academic and professional achievement, good writing skills, problem-solving abilities, and highly developed interpersonal skills. Overseas experience and language capabilities are a plus but not a requirement for those wishing to apply.

Carefully read the DO "Clandestine Service Positions" career page for current vacancies and application details.

Officers of the DO serve worldwide and in the Washington, DC area. More information is available once the applicant enters on duty. Relocation to Washington, DC is required for ALL DO positions.

We strongly encourage applicants to refrain from disclosing information concerning employment with the CIA, regardless of application status. Knowledge by non-Agency personnel of your association with the CIA or IC may limit your ability to perform or preclude you from certain assignments. DO applicants should therefore endeavor to protect the fact that they have applied and/or are thinking of applying to the CIA. We strongly urge your discretion throughout the entire hiring process to ensure maximum flexibility for your potential DO career. Further guidance will be provided as competitive applicants move through the hiring steps.

The Central Intelligence Agency offers many benefits. Most are competitive with the private industry. These include:

• Paid Time Off
• Federal Health and Life Insurance
• Retirement
• Education and Training
• Health Services
• Child Care Centers
• Credit Union

Carefully read about Benefits in detail at Life at CIA.

Carefully read the "Careers at the CIA" page for current vacancies and application details.

Carefully read the Internship Programs page of the Directorate of Operations.