What does a Human Intelligence Collector do?
Published 3 min read
A human intelligence collector is responsible for gathering information from human sources. This can be done through interviews, observation, or other means of communication. The information gathered is then used to help make decisions or take action.
Human Intelligence Collector job duties include:
- Plan, direct, and coordinate human intelligence operations
- Design and implement strategies for collecting information from human sources
- Develop and maintain relationships with human sources
- Evaluate potential human sources and determine their suitability for providing information
- Conduct debriefings of human sources to obtain information
- Analyze information collected from human sources to identify intelligence gaps and requirements
- Prepare reports on the information collected from human sources
- Maintain awareness of current events and developments that may impact human intelligence operations
- Comply with laws, regulations, and policies governing the conduct of human intelligence operations
Human Intelligence Collector Job Requirements
The job requirements for a Human Intelligence Collector are a high school diploma or equivalent, completion of a military intelligence training course, and experience in human intelligence operations.
Human Intelligence Collector Skills
- Active listening
- Empathy
- Patience
- Flexibility
- Creativity
- Persistence
- Resourcefulness
- Objectivity
- Awareness
- Cultural sensitivity
- Discretion
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How to become a Human Intelligence Collector
In order to become a Human Intelligence Collector, one must first understand what HUMINT is and the different types of collectors. HUMINT is defined as “the collection of information from human sources” (DIA, 2006). There are four different types of collectors: interrogators, debriefers, document analysts, and field collectors. Each type has their own unique set of skills and knowledge that they bring to the table.
The first step in becoming a HUMINT collector is to join the military. This will give you the opportunity to learn about the different types of collectors and gain experience in the field. Once you have gained some experience, you can then apply for a position with the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) or another government agency that collects HUMINT.
The next step is to complete training at the CIA’s Farm in Virginia or another government agency’s training program. During this training, you will learn how to collect information from human sources using different methods such as interviews, surveillance, and document analysis. You will also learn how to write reports and briefings on the information you collect.
After completing training, you will be assigned to a field office where you will work with other collectors to gather intelligence. This intelligence will be used by policymakers to make decisions on national security issues. As a HUMINT collector, you will play an important role in keeping our country safe.
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