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.
Military analysts support US policymakers and military commanders with research, briefings, and written assessments. They evaluate the strategic capabilities, intentions, and decision making of foreign national security establishments and non-state actors such as terrorist and insurgency groups, or assess the technical performance and tactical proficiency of foreign weapons systems and forces. Military analysts also examine political-military issues such as civil-military relations, regional security arrangements, arms control and nonproliferation regimes, military diplomacy, and peacekeeping operations. Candidates with expertise and a deep interest in military forces, strategy and operations, technology, defense industries, and military history are of particular interest.
Analysts also may choose to pursue additional studies in fields relevant to their areas of responsibility. Opportunities exist for foreign travel, language training, professional training, and assignments to other offices in the Agency and throughout the US Government.
Minimum requirements: A bachelor's or master's degree in international relations, political science, security studies or military history, preferably with a strong regional focus or expertise. A minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4-point scale is required. Excellent analytical ability, solid interpersonal skills, the ability to think about issues on a tactical or strategic level, and the ability to work under tight deadlines are also required. Competitive candidates typically have higher GPAs, relevant experience, and strong verbal presentation and writing skills, including the demonstrated ability to write clear and concise text. Knowledge of strategic and military operational concepts or intelligence analysis is a plus. Candidates must be willing to adapt to the DI's unique writing and tradecraft practices.
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.