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Central Intelligence Agency Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Honors Attorney

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$93K - $121K/yr

Engage with other Intelligence Community elements, federal agencies, and congressional committees. * Maintain productive working relationships with other OGC and Agency officers to further CIA ...

Analytic Careers

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$78K - $170K/yr

Learn more about this agency Duties Help CIA's Directorate of Analysis employs highly motivated ... Intellectual curiosity * Sound judgement and interpersonal skills * Ability to balance initiative ...

Accountant

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$76K - $133K/yr

You will be an important partner in all financial occupations, as well as across the Agency and Intelligence Community, as you gain governmental accounting expertise and provide financial analysis of ...

Military Analyst

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$63K - $158K/yr

... Intelligence Community peers, and professional conferences. You may also participate in broadening assignments within the Agency and across the U.S. Government. Requirements Help Conditions of ...

Data Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$74K - $156K/yr

Learn more about this agency Duties Help As a DDI Data Engineer at CIA, you will transform and deliver high-priority datasets to enable exploitation and analysis for CIA's intelligence mission. Using ...

SECURITY SPECIALIST

Columbus, OH · On-site +1

$77K - $101K/yr

Researches, interprets, analyzes and applies Presidential Executive Orders, Director Central Intelligence Directives (DCIDs), Defense Intelligence Agency Manuals, DoD Manuals, Army / Air Force ...

Showing results 21-40

Central Intelligence Agency information

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$45.5K

$104.6K

$144K

How much do central intelligence agency jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for central intelligence agency in the United States is $104,643.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $94,000.00 and $118,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Central Intelligence Agency vs FBI Special Agent?

AspectCentral Intelligence AgencyFBI Special Agent
Required CredentialsTypically a bachelor's degree, security clearance, language skillsBachelor's degree, background check, security clearance
Work EnvironmentIntelligence analysis, covert operations, overseas assignmentsLaw enforcement, investigations, field and office work
Employer & IndustryU.S. government, intelligence communityU.S. Department of Justice, federal law enforcement

The Central Intelligence Agency and FBI Special Agents both serve U.S. national security but differ in focus. The CIA primarily conducts overseas intelligence and covert operations, requiring language skills and analysis expertise. The FBI Special Agent focuses on domestic law enforcement, investigations, and counterterrorism within the U.S. The roles share similar credentials but differ in work environment and mission scope.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a CIA operations officer?

To thrive as a CIA Operations Officer, you need a bachelor’s degree, strong analytical abilities, foreign language proficiency, and a demonstrated interest in international affairs. Familiarity with intelligence-gathering tools, secure communication systems, and relevant certifications such as security clearances are typically required. Exceptional interpersonal skills, adaptability, cultural sensitivity, and discretion help individuals excel in building relationships and managing sensitive information. These skills and qualities are critical for effectively gathering intelligence and fulfilling the agency’s national security mission.

What are some unique challenges faced by intelligence analysts at the Central Intelligence Agency, and how are they typically addressed?

Intelligence analysts at the CIA often work with incomplete or ambiguous information, which can make drawing accurate conclusions challenging. To address this, analysts collaborate closely with colleagues from other disciplines, use advanced analytical tools, and participate in regular training to refine their critical thinking skills. The fast-paced environment also requires adaptability and strong communication skills to relay findings to policymakers effectively. Teamwork and mentorship are emphasized to help new analysts navigate complex assignments and develop professionally.

What is the Central Intelligence Agency?

The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) is a U.S. government agency responsible for gathering, analyzing, and disseminating intelligence information to support national security. The CIA primarily focuses on foreign intelligence and operations, working to protect the country from threats such as terrorism, cyber attacks, and espionage. Its activities include collecting information through human sources, technical means, and open sources, as well as conducting covert operations abroad. The agency operates under the direction of the Director of National Intelligence and works closely with other intelligence and law enforcement agencies.
More about Central Intelligence Agency jobs
What cities are hiring for Central Intelligence Agency jobs? Cities with the most Central Intelligence Agency job openings:
What states have the most Central Intelligence Agency jobs? States with the most job openings for Central Intelligence Agency jobs include:
Infographic showing various Central Intelligence Agency job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,643 per year, or $50.3 per hour.

Operational Careers

Central Intelligence Agency

Washington, DC • On-site, Remote

$72K - $109K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Summary
Discover an operational career at the CIA, where your creativity, critical thinking, discipline, teamwork, and unwavering dedication are vital in delivering foreign intelligence to U.S. Government policymakers. Immerse yourself in mission and purpose with global impact, while you help provide the United States with a tactical and strategic advantage.
Please visit cia.gov/careers, to view all job opportunities currently available.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
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  • Job duties will vary based on the occupation. Operational careers include: Case Officer, Collection Management Officer, Paramilitary Officer, Language Officer, Staff Operations Officer, and Targeting Officer.

Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • You must be physically in the United States or one of its territories when you submit your resume.
  • You must be registered for the Selective Service, if applicable.
  • You must be a U.S. citizen and at least 18 years of age (dual-national US citizens are eligible).
  • You must be willing to move to the Washington, DC area.
  • You must successfully complete a thorough medical and psychological exam, a polygraph interview, and a comprehensive background investigation.
  • For further requirements information, please visit: https://www.cia.gov/careers/cia-requirements/

Qualifications
Interested candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the US Constitution. Hiring decisions will not be based on race, sex, color, religion, or national origin.
CIA has a variety of operational jobs; all candidates should possess the following attributes:
  • Patriotism

  • Integrity

  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills (verbal and written)

  • Quick thinking/action, results oriented

  • Curiosity

  • Flexibility and ability to deal with ambiguity

  • Stress tolerance

  • Independent thinking skills

  • Teamwork skills

  • Ability to multi-task

  • Creativity

  • Time management skills

  • Initiative

  • Self-awareness

Minimum Qualifications
  • Ability to work effectively as part of a team and independently

  • Adaptability and commitment to the mission of the CIA

  • Ability to meet the minimum requirements for joining CIA, including U.S. citizenship and a background investigation

Desired Qualifications
  • Willingness and ability to establish strong personal relationships

  • Ability to "think on your feet" and develop creative yet practical solutions to anticipated and unanticipated problems

  • Interest in seeking answers, learning foreign languages, and studying other cultures

Education
Education
  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution is required. Applicants within one year of earning a four-year degree will be considered. There is no preferred major or program of study. Degrees from foreign academic institutions are accepted, but you are responsible for obtaining and providing CIA with a credential evaluation from an accredited firm confirming that the foreign degree is the equivalent of a BA/BS and/or MA/MS degree conferred by a U.S. college or university.

  • At least a 3.0 GPA on a 4-point scale is preferred.

Additional information
Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Review our benefits
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.