If you’re interested in protecting national security, you might want to apply for a job at the CIA. CIA professionals can help analyze different types of intelligence, ensure the safety of citizens from many countries and affect U.S. laws and policies.
In this article, we discuss the importance of CIA jobs, review the steps to take if you want to pursue a career with the CIA and describe several CIA jobs you can get with or without a college degree.
What are CIA jobs?
CIA jobs are positions and careers at the United States’ Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). The CIA is part of the federal government. Jobs in the CIA assist with collecting, analyzing or implementing intelligence findings. The types of intelligence collections and analysis differ, but all have the goal of improving national security.
Some people are familiar with CIA agents, or spies, from fictional portrayals of CIA agents in films and on television shows. CIA agents may interrogate witnesses or experts, determine how credible a piece of foreign intelligence is and use technology systems to analyze data. However, agents are only one of the many possible jobs at the CIA. People interested in working with the CIA can explore a variety of career paths, including federal police officers, cyber security technologists, psychiatrists and librarians.
Why are jobs in the CIA important?
The CIA is critical to U.S. government agencies and citizens for many reasons, including:
Interpreting different types of intelligence
The CIA collects and analyzes various types of intelligence related to national security. For example, CIA employees may gather human intelligence, which is typically nonnumerical data, through methods such as interviewing locals. Signals intelligence, however, focuses on intercepting transmissions from voice, radar, aircraft and other technology signals. Data collected from signals intelligence usually is quantitative and analyzed through machine learning algorithms, formulas and other techniques involving mathematics. Jobs in the CIA focus on analyzing these various types of intelligence and compiling their findings into cohesive results.
Bolstering national defense systems
CIA jobs help support and improve the U.S.’s national security. The CIA helps national security systems by providing intelligence findings related to strengthening the military, improving economic infrastructure, increasing environmental sustainability and other strategies. The CIA focuses on both minimizing the effects of existing threats to national security and proactively eliminating future threats.
Keeping citizens safe
The overall goal of most duties and responsibilities for various CIA jobs is to protect U.S. citizens. Some CIA jobs may also focus on keeping citizens of other countries safe if related to national security issues. For example, CIA employees may travel abroad to protect foreign citizens if the risks posed may affect U.S. national defense systems.
Influencing policy decisions
The intelligence findings from the CIA affect the decisions, regulations and policies made by other government agencies. The CIA provides intelligence findings to government officials such as the leaders of federal executive departments, the vice president and the president. These and other politicians use the CIA’s findings to create or revise U.S. policies.
Can you get a CIA job without a degree?
It’s possible to get a job at the CIA without a college degree. However, most CIA jobs require candidates to have at least a bachelor’s degree. Aspiring CIA agents, operations officers, analysts, computer specialists and more all need to get a four-year degree before applying.
Most CIA jobs that don’t require a college degree are clerical or administrative positions. These types of positions typically ask that applicants have a high school diploma or GED. Other CIA jobs that don’t require college degrees may ask candidates to have certifications instead, such as from a technical or trade school.
How to get a CIA job
Here are seven steps to complete if applying for a job in the CIA:
1. Meet the minimum requirements
Candidates for all CIA jobs must meet certain requirements. The minimum requirements for applying to any CIA job include:
Submitting the application while in the U.S. The CIA asks candidates to apply through its online portal. They also specify to only access this online portal when you are physically in the United States to help protect both your personal safety and national security.
Being a U.S. citizen. CIA applicants must have citizenship in the United States. Naturalized citizens, or U.S. citizens born in another country, may apply to the CIA, but only after receiving citizenship status.
Reaching the legal age of adulthood. Candidates for all CIA positions must be at least 18 years or older. Some CIA positions specify that applicants need to be at least 21 years old.
Be willing to relocate. Applicants may apply from any part of the U.S. but must be comfortable moving to Washington, D.C., if accepted into the CIA. Some CIA positions also ask that applicants be willing to travel to other countries for extended periods of time.
2. Choose your CIA career
Decide on the type of job position you hope to get at the CIA. The CIA employs people in a variety of roles, including:
Engineers
Linguists, or professionals who understand the principles of multiple languages
Historians
Targeting officers, or professionals who identify potential sources of valuable intelligence
Human resources (HR) representatives
Cartographers, or professionals who produce maps
Graphic designers
3. Get the education needed for your chosen career
Fulfill the educational requirements for the CIA job you aspire to have. As the CIA offers jobs in many industries and fields, the education requirements for applicants vary by position. Most CIA positions require candidates to have a bachelor’s degree. CIA positions that require more specialized skills and knowledge, such as attorneys or psychologists, need to first receive more advanced degrees. For administrative positions at the CIA, however, you typically only need a GED or high school diploma.
4. Fill out the online application
The CIA asks candidates for all positions to begin their application process in the CIA job portal. Candidates first create an account with the CIA’s Careers Application Center. Although candidates may save incomplete applications and work on them later, they must submit their applications within three days total. The CIA recommends applying to multiple CIA jobs at once to increase your chances of progressing in the application process.
5. Meet the CIA’s ethical standards
As CIA employees frequently handle classified or sensitive information, the CIA places great emphasis on hiring candidates they can trust to help protect the United States. During the application process, the CIA evaluates your past actions and actions you take while applying to the CIA, including your:
Honesty: The CIA expects applicants to be entirely truthful throughout the application process. If any information on your application changes, such as if you move to a new address, let the CIA know immediately.
Ethical and legal behavior: CIA candidates must have records free of criminal or unethical behavior. This includes felony convictions, pending charges and dishonorable discharges from the military.
Correct usage of drugs: The CIA reviews your records for any illegal drug use or prescription drug abuse within the last 12 months. Although marijuana is legal in some states, it’s not legal at the federal level, so the CIA looks at marijuana use within the last 12 months, too.
Social media usage: The CIA asks candidates to not engage with CIA social media pages to protect their personal safety during and after the application process. If you want to apply to the CIA, avoid following their social media pages, commenting on their posts or sharing their content to your personal feeds.
Responsiveness: The CIA expects all applicants to respond in a timely manner throughout the application process. This includes arriving at your appointments and interviews on time.
6. Complete the security clearances
All applicants to the CIA must complete several rounds of security clearance, including:
Polygraph interview: A polygraph machine, or lie detector, measures physical responses such as your heart rate to determine if you are answering questions honestly. The polygraph examiners at the CIA are security professionals who keep your test results confidential.
Physical examination: A physical examination is a routine medical procedure performed by a physician to evaluate your overall health and wellness. The doctor may examine your ears, listen to your lungs, test your reflexes and perform other basic healthcare assessments.
Background check: The CIA background check involves interviewing your coworkers, supervisors, friends and neighbors. The goal of the background investigation is to assess your honesty, personality and your loyalty to the U.S.
Psychological examination: A psychological examination is a standard evaluation of your mental health by a psychologist. Psychological exams may include an interview with a psychologist, a self-evaluation and multiple-choice assessments.
7. Partake in tests or interviews
If you advance in the application process, the CIA may ask you to complete many tests and interviews. The CIA typically requests that candidates complete both a phone interview and an in-person interview at a secure location. The tests you take as part of the application process vary depending on the position you hope to get.
What kinds of jobs can I get at the CIA?
Here are just a few of the CIA jobs to consider for your career:
1. CIA agent
National average salary:$44,954 per year
Primary duties: A CIA agent gathers and analyzes intelligence to help defend and strengthen national security. CIA agents collect intelligence by interviewing civilians, intercepting communications or signals, reading newspapers from other countries and a variety of other methods. The CIA bases most agents in the U.S., but frequently asks agents to travel abroad for extended periods of time. To become a CIA agent, you must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
2. Automotive mechanic
National average salary: $53,066 per year
Primary duties: Automotive mechanics repair, test and maintain a variety of vehicles, such as cars and trucks. Responsibilities of an auto mechanic may include troubleshooting electronic vehicle parts, assisting with emergency repairs and performing vehicle inspections. CIA auto mechanics must be open to moving internationally as needed to serve the CIA’s missions or needs. The CIA requires automotive mechanics to have a certificate from a technical college and at least three years of relevant work experience.
3. Police officer
National average salary: $53,299 per year
Primary duties: A police officer protects citizens and property, enforces local and national laws and helps maintain public order. Police officers in the CIA work in the Security Protective Service (SPS) department, meaning they defend CIA employees, property and intelligence. A CIA police officer’s duties may include monitoring access to CIA facilities, assisting during medical emergencies and enforcing the law on CIA property. Candidates for the CIA police force must be at least 21 years old and possess a high school diploma or GED.
4. Truck driver
National average salary: $65,512 per year
Primary duties: A truck driver loads, unloads and transports goods using a heavy truck or trailer tractor. CIA truck drivers sometimes handle and transport hazardous materials or materials weighing up to 70 pounds. A CIA truck driver operates trucks in a variety of environments such as interstate highways, city streets and unpaved roads. To apply for a truck driving position with the CIA, candidates need to have a Class A commercial driver’s license (CDL) and at least two years of commercial truck driving experience.
5. Analyst
National average salary: $69,490 per year
Primary duties: An analyst gathers and evaluates intelligence from a variety of sources to help companies or government agencies make strategic decisions. The CIA employs analysts in many roles, including human resources, economic, political and science analysts. Specific analyst responsibilities vary based on the type of CIA analyst. Cyber threat analysts at the CIA, for example, may use digital forensics techniques, assist with complicated intelligence issues and identify foreign cyber threats. To become a CIA analyst, you need a bachelor’s degree first.
What Does a Nuclear Engineer Do? (Plus Related Careers)
Nuclear engineers complete complex work involving nuclear-powered devices used for power generation, medical treatment and even space exploration. Engineers in this field develop a strong understanding of mathematics, physics and computer programming to design systems for multiple industries. If you’re considering a career in engineering, learning more about the work and scope of nuclear engineering may help you decide if you want to pursue this specialization.
What does a nuclear engineer do?
A nuclear engineer uses math and analytical skills to develop instruments and processes related to radiation and nuclear energy. Some nuclear engineers work on spacecraft to develop special nuclear tools and power sources for rockets and other related equipment. Other nuclear engineers may develop systems for medical use, like proton therapy for cancer patients. Nuclear engineers are at the forefront of finding safe ways to use nuclear energy to solve some of the world’s challenges. Specific tasks you may complete as a nuclear engineer include:
Developing nuclear equipment including radiation shielding and reactor cores
Operating and maintaining nuclear power plants while ensuring facilities meet safety standards
Designing processes related to the disposal of nuclear waste in power plant operations
Performing tests on nuclear materials and their use, including the disposal of nuclear waste and reclamation of nuclear fuel
Designing preventative measures to ensure safety where nuclear energy and radiation are used
Nuclear engineer requirements
Nuclear engineers are required to earn at least a bachelor’s degree in nuclear engineering or a similar subject because of the specialized work environment and level of study necessary to perform key job duties. Preparing to work as a nuclear engineer includes:
Education
Starting an entry-level position as a nuclear engineer requires a bachelor’s degree in nuclear engineering or a closely related subject, such as physics or engineering technologies. Studying for an engineering degree involves courses in mathematics and physical sciences with a focus on applied research and design. Some nuclear engineers prepare for leadership or research positions by earning a master’s degree either through a five-year program combining both undergraduate and graduate studies or through a separate degree.
Training
Most companies that employ nuclear engineers require at least eight months of on-the-job training. This training period gives you the opportunity to learn federal and state regulations and safety procedures. During this time, entry-level engineers typically work with a senior nuclear engineer who oversees training before transitioning to work at an independent level. Some companies may offer additional training on new equipment or procedures to help engineers update their skills.
Certifications
You’re not required to earn specialized certifications to be a nuclear engineer but there are a few you can earn to increase your employability:
Professional Engineer (PE)
A professional engineer license varies from state to state. You can qualify for the test after completing your bachelor’s degree in an engineering field, passing the fundamentals of engineering exam (FE) and earning a few years of relevant work experience. The final component before you receive your PE is to get a passing score on the PE exam. You can take the FE exam after graduating, then complete the required amount of work experience to take the PE. Look up the requirements for the state where you plan to work.
Senior Reactor Operator (SRO)
The Nuclear Regulatory Commission offers the reactor operator and senior reactor operator certifications. Nuclear engineers operating power plants within the federal government’s jurisdiction are required to earn one of these designations. This includes taking a two-year, site-specific program and earning a passing score. Examinations for the senior operator certification involve the additional component to test an engineer’s ability to direct licensed operators.
Nuclear Engineer Skills
Engineers use specific technical abilities to complete key job responsibilities. They also develop soft skills essential to their daily work. The most critical soft skills for nuclear engineers include:
Analytical skills: Nuclear engineers use analytical skills to help build facilities that hold and produce nuclear material using attention to detail and logical reasoning.
Mathematics: Nuclear engineers use math to solve problems in the field or design solutions to common problems using nuclear materials.
Problem-solving: Nuclear engineers use problem-solving skills to resolve issues related to new tools or designs with radiation or nuclear material. You might combine some of your other skills, like math and analytics, to solve any issues that arise.
Communication: Nuclear engineers work with team members to communicate complex engineering tasks and technical processes effectively. Strong writing skills also help engineers clearly explain designs for specialized tools or power sources.
Attention to detail: Overseeing operations in a highly hazardous environment requires attentiveness to make sure everyone is following the correct safety procedures. This skill can also help you detect problems with machinery or digital readings.
Nuclear engineer work environment
Nuclear engineers typically work in offices but some work onsite at a nuclear power plant. Some work directly for the United States Department of Energy. They may work with other engineers such as electrical or mechanical to incorporate systems using one another’s designs. Power plant operations involve working in an environment with highly reactive material, which is why specific training is required to work in such places. Most nuclear engineers work full-time, adding overtime as necessary.
Related careers for nuclear engineers
While jobs for nuclear engineers may decrease as government agencies and states move to new energy sources for power, many engineering careers offer opportunities for growth. If you’re interested in working as an engineer, consider the following roles:
Civil engineer
Civil engineers design public facilities like roads and bridges. They may also work to build private structures like airports. Civil engineering involves planning for transportation, urban growth and environmental concerns. Consider working in this position if you’re interested in planning and designing public infrastructure, developing projects that protect natural environments and creating buildings with stability from the elements such as earthquakes.
Aerospace engineer
If you’re interested in designing systems and hardware for air or spaceflight, working as an aerospace engineer may be a rewarding career path for you. Aerospace engineers develop components for aircraft and spacecraft using a deep understanding of aerodynamics, propulsion and physics. Because of the nature of flight, aerospace engineers also spend much of their time checking and testing designs to ensure the safety of passengers on board any space or aircraft.
Electrical engineer
Electrical engineers create electrical systems. They design and test electrical units or map out new pathways for electrical energy to flow. Electrical engineers also design equipment for various industries. They may also oversee the production and installation of their designs to ensure they function nominally.
Mechanical engineer
A mechanical engineer designs machines for everyday use. Some mechanical engineers specialize in creating machines for a particular industry. They also perform fieldwork to inspect and repair machines onsite.
