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What does an Intelligence Analyst do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 4 min read

An intelligence analyst is responsible for researching, analyzing, and interpreting intelligence data to support national security. They may work for the government or for private companies, and their duties may include writing reports, maintaining databases, and briefing officials on their findings.

Intelligence Analyst job duties include:

  • Conduct analysis of intelligence information to support national security objectives
  • Develop and apply analytical methods to support the collection, analysis, and dissemination of intelligence information
  • Identify and assess emerging threats and vulnerabilities
  • Conduct all-source research and analysis on assigned topics
  • Produce high-quality written reports, briefings, and analyses
  • Present findings to senior government officials
  • Support the development and implementation of intelligence collection plans
  • Manage and maintain large data sets and databases
  • Use data mining, statistical analysis, and other advanced analytical techniques

Intelligence Analyst Job Requirements

Intelligence analysts are responsible for gathering, analyzing, and disseminating information that is critical to the success of military operations. They must be able to think critically and quickly in order to make decisions based on the information they have gathered. Intelligence analysts typically have a bachelor's degree in intelligence studies, although some jobs may require a master's degree or higher. In addition, intelligence analysts must be able to obtain a security clearance from the government.

Intelligence Analyst Skills

  • Analytical skills
  • Communication skills
  • Research skills
  • Writing skills
  • Critical thinking skills
  • Organizational skills
  • Attention to detail
  • Flexibility
  • Creativity
  • Problem solving skills
  • Time management skills

Related: Top Intelligence Analyst Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become an Intelligence Analyst

Intelligence analysts are responsible for collecting and analyzing information that can be used to make decisions about national security. They may work for the government or for private companies, and their work can be both analytical and field-based.

To become an intelligence analyst, you will need to have strong research, critical thinking, and communication skills. You should also be able to work independently and be comfortable with using technology to collect and analyze data.

If you are interested in a career as an intelligence analyst, you should start by doing some research to learn more about the field. You can read books or articles, or look for online resources. Once you have a better understanding of what the job entails, you can start working on developing the skills that will make you successful in this career.

Some specific skills that you will need to succeed as an intelligence analyst include:

- Strong research skills: You will need to be able to find and analyze information from a variety of sources.

- Critical thinking skills: You will need to be able to evaluate information and make judgments about its accuracy and relevance.

- Communication skills: You will need to be able to communicate your findings clearly, both in writing and verbally.

- Technology skills: You will need to be comfortable using technology to collect and analyze data.

If you are interested in becoming an intelligence analyst, there are a few different paths you can take. Many analysts start their careers with a bachelor's degree in a field such as political science, international relations, or economics. However, there is no specific degree required for this job, so if you have another type of bachelor's degree, you may still be eligible for this position.

In addition to a bachelor's degree, many employers also require that candidates have at least two years of experience working in an analytical role. If you don't have any previous experience working in this field, you may want to consider interning or volunteering with an organization that deals with intelligence analysis. This can give you the opportunity to gain the necessary skills and experience while also making connections in the industry.

Related: Intelligence Analyst Resume Example

Related: Intelligence Analyst Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

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Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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