Central Intelligence Agency (CIA)
Washington, DC$53,088 - $78,703 a year
Higher starting salary possible depending on experience level.
This position offers an opportunity to participate in the Language Hiring Bonus Program. See "Bonus Programs" in the Benefits section for more information.
Leadership analysts produce assessments of foreign leaders and other key decision-makers in the political, economic, military, science and technology, social, and cultural fields. These assessments are prepared at the request of senior US policymakers in the executive and legislative branches to help them understand and deal with their foreign counterparts. Leadership analysis is distinguished by its emphasis on in-depth research and assimilation of data from many disparate sources, usually under tight time constraints, to craft a tightly-integrated written product for policymakers. Agency analysts are encouraged to maintain and broaden professional ties through academic study, contacts, and attendance at professional meetings. They may also choose to pursue additional studies in fields relevant to their areas of responsibility. Opportunities exist for foreign travel, language training, analytic and management training, and assignments in other offices in the Agency and throughout the US Government.
Minimum requirements: Candidates with a bachelor's or master's degree in leadership studies or a closely related field (psychology, political psychology, organizational psychology, sociology, or anthropology) and regional expertise are strongly encouraged to apply. Other strong candidates will have degrees in international relations, political science, foreign area studies, history, or similar subjects. Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4-point scale is required. Competitive candidates typically will have higher GPAs, relevant experience, excellent analytical and research skills, strong attention to detail, and strong verbal presentation and writing skills, including the demonstrated ability to write clear and concise text. Foreign language proficiency and foreign area knowledge gained through study, travel, or work abroad are highly desirable. Coursework and research in small-group behavior and decision-making is a plus.
The following items must be attached to your online application:
Your resume.
A cover letter in which you specify your qualifications for one or more analytic positions. Please address why you want to work as an analyst and what differentiates you from other applicants.
Unofficial transcripts for all degrees.
Two different writing samples, each five (5) pages MAXIMUM, single spaced, technical or analytic papers that focus on your current area of expertise or interests and are related to your interest in positions at CIA. You can excerpt longer papers.
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: Make a note of the position(s) that interest you, as you can apply for up to four positions in one application. DO NOT submit multiple applications; this will only slow the review of your application, and delay processing. Please read the Application Instructions carefully before you begin the online application process.