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Clandestine Service Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Central Intelligence Agency

Targeting Officer

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$72K - $109K/yr

DO officers are hired into one of two programs: the Clandestine Service Trainee (CST) program or the Professional Trainee (PT) program. A CST has three or more years of professional experience, while ...

Central Intelligence Agency

Case Officer

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$72K - $109K/yr

DO officers are hired into one of two programs: the Clandestine Service Trainee (CST) program or the Professional Trainee (PT) program. A CST has three or more years of professional experience, while ...

Pae

$49K/yr

Assessing the potential locations where clandestine technical surveillancedevices could be used by hostile intelligence services for the purpose of clandestine surveillance. * Perform security escort ...

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How much do clandestine service jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for clandestine service in the United States is $19.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $22.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Clandestine Service vs Intelligence Analyst?

AspectClandestine ServiceIntelligence Analyst
Required CredentialsSecurity clearances, language skills, specialized trainingSecurity clearances, analytical skills, relevant degrees
Work EnvironmentField operations, covert missions, overseas assignmentsOffice-based, data analysis, report writing
Employer & Industry UsageIntelligence agencies, government sectorsIntelligence agencies, defense, security firms

Clandestine Service and Intelligence Analyst roles both require security clearances and analytical skills. However, Clandestine Service involves covert operations and fieldwork, while Intelligence Analysts focus on data analysis and reporting within office settings. Both roles are vital in intelligence agencies but differ significantly in work environment and job functions.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in the Clandestine Service, and how are they addressed?

Professionals in the Clandestine Service often encounter challenges such as operating under cover, adapting quickly to unfamiliar or high-pressure environments, and managing the stress of secrecy and frequent travel. These challenges are addressed through specialized training, ongoing mentorship, and robust support systems within the agency. Team members regularly collaborate to share information and provide mutual support, ensuring operational effectiveness and personal resilience. Additionally, agencies emphasize work-life balance, mental health resources, and continuous professional development to help staff navigate the unique demands of the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Clandestine Service, and why are they important?

To thrive in Clandestine Service, you need strong analytical abilities, foreign language proficiency, and a relevant bachelor's degree, often with international relations or security studies. Familiarity with secure communications technology, surveillance systems, and specialized operations training is typically required. Outstanding interpersonal skills, adaptability, and emotional resilience are crucial for building trust and operating effectively under pressure. These skills and qualities are essential for collecting critical intelligence discreetly and ensuring national security in high-risk environments.

What are Clandestine Service officers?

Clandestine Service officers, often working for intelligence agencies like the CIA, are responsible for collecting foreign intelligence through covert means. Their primary role is to recruit and manage sources, conduct espionage, and gather information that is vital to national security. These officers operate in secrecy, often in foreign countries, and their identities and missions are highly classified. The work can be dangerous and requires strong analytical, interpersonal, and language skills, as well as the ability to adapt quickly to changing situations.
More about Clandestine Service jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Clandestine Service jobs? The most popular types of Clandestine Service jobs are:
What states have the most Clandestine Service jobs? States with the most job openings for Clandestine Service jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Clandestine Service jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Clandestine Service jobs are:
Clandestine Service jobs near you
Infographic showing various Clandestine Service job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 94% Full Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 100% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $40,821 per year, or $19.6 per hour.
Staff Operations Officer

Staff Operations Officer

Central Intelligence Agency

Washington, DC • On-site, Remote

$72K - $109K/yr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Summary
Staff Operations Officers provide integration between CIA Headquarters and Directorate of Operations field offices, program management, and operational case management to drive clandestine operations.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
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As a Staff Operations Officer for the CIA, you will provide the seamless integration between CIA Headquarters and Directorate of Operations (DO) offices in the field necessary to drive clandestine operations to success. Your effectiveness, versatility, and resourcefulness as a Staff Operations Officer is critical to the success of the DO's most creative, challenging, and impactful operations.
Staff Operations Officers apply advanced knowledge and expertise of clandestine operations, operational tradecraft, and intelligence priorities when providing strategic guidance and operational case management. In addition, Staff Operations Officers are responsible for program management throughout the DO, from traditional operational activities to specialized initiatives and Covert Action. The demanding pace of DO has Staff Operations Officers finding solutions to complex operational problems, identifying new technical tools and capabilities to advance operations, and tapping the resources of the DO, CIA, and U.S. Government to ensure operational requirements are met. Staff Operations Officers provide objective reviews of on-going and potential operations and serve as the vital link between DO officers in the field, CIA Headquarters, and the Intelligence Community.
Many Staff Operations Officers will spend much of their career serving in the Washington, DC area having opportunities for overseas travel. Opportunities for Staff Operations Officers to serve multi-year postings overseas exist, but these positions are competitive.
All DO officers are hired at an entry level and train as they are expected to work - as one team. DO officers are hired into one of two programs: the Clandestine Service Trainee (CST) program or the Professional Trainee (PT) program. A CST has three or more years of professional experience, while a PT has less than three years of professional experience. DO officers begin their careers learning the foundations of operations via classroom training, practical exercises, and on-the-job experience gained through a series of interim assignments. Based on the program into which each applicant is hired, the number of interim assignments will vary.
As part of the program, some DO officers will be expected to:
  • Operate a motor vehicle without second-party assistance in daytime and nighttime conditions;
  • Traverse uneven terrain, to include climbing and descending staircases, over fixed minimum distances and in varying weather conditions;
  • Work non-traditional or erratic schedules;
  • Make reasoned decisions under time constraints.

This position requires a 5-year Contract Term Agreement.
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 via MyLINK.
  • 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 information, please visit: https://www.cia.gov/careers/how-we-hire/

Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications
Interested candidates should be passionate about the ideals of our American republic, committed to upholding the rule of law and the U.S. Constitution, and committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government. Hiring decisions will not be based on race, sex, color, religion, or national origin.
  • Personal integrity
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills (verbal and written)
  • Action- and results-oriented
  • Ability to work effectively as part of a team and independently
  • Flexibility, adaptability, and commitment to the mission of the CIA and the Directorate of Operations.
  • Ability to meet the minimum requirements for joining CIA, including U.S. citizenship and a background investigation

Desired Qualifications
  • Ability to take initiative and deliver results
  • Ability to develop and maintain broad networks across the CIA and the U.S. Government
  • Deal effectively, comfortably, and confidently with people at all levels of responsibility, authority, and rank
  • Ability to multi-task and remain calm under pressure
  • View challenge and uncertainty as opportunity
  • Confidence and authoritative voice in strategic operational decisions

Education
  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution (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.
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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.

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