Intelligence Careers

Information about the size, strength, location and capabilities of enemy forces is essential to military operations and national defense. To gather information, intelligence officers rely on aerial photographs, human observation and electronic monitoring using radar and supersensitive radios. These officers manage and organize other intelligence specialists; analyzing the data they find to help plan future operations. This can happen in an office environment or in locations all over the world.

Possible Responsibilities

• Organize and direct sea, ground and aerial surveillance
• Prepare plans to intercept foreign communications transmissions
• Direct the analysis of aerial photos and other intelligence data
• Oversee the writing of intelligence reports
• Brief others on intelligence findings
• Help plan military missions including those involving electronic warfare
• Gather and analyze technical and human intelligence
• Oversee security investigations

Helpful Attributes

Useful fields of study include cryptology, computer science, mathematics and engineering. Helpful attributes include:

• Ability to organize and manage activities
• Ability to work with abstract problems
• Interest in analyzing data
• Interest in solving problems

Training Provided

Job training consists of classroom instruction. Sample courses include:

• Air, Ground, and Sea Intelligence Operations
• Photograph Interpretation
• Use of Surveillance Equipment
• Reconnaissance Equipment and Weapons Systems