Careers Overview
We are the Central Intelligence Agency.
The nation’s first line of defense.
We are the Central Intelligence Agency.
Across the directorates, around the globe and here at home.
We are the National Clandestine Service.
Discovering the truth to protect our nation.
We are the Directorate of Science and Technology.
Creating, adapting and developing technology so advanced it’s classified.
We are the Directorate of Intelligence.
Analyzing, gathering and disseminating critical intelligence from many sources.
We are the Directorate of Support and the Director’s Staff.
Fulfilling the Agency mission with expertise from many fields.
We are the Central Intelligence Agency.
One team, supporting one mission.
Intelligence officers, scientists and engineers.
Analysts, economists and attorneys.
Physicians, accountants, linguists and interns.
We are the Central Intelligence Agency.
The Work of a Nation. The Center of Intelligence.
Equal Opportunity Employer.
You Must Submit Online via MyLINK, While in the United States
You must be physically within the United States or one of its territories when you submit your resume via MyLINK. This is for your safety and security.
While you may travel abroad for a short duration during the hiring process, do not contact us while you are physically outside of the United States or its territories. This includes by hard copy mail, telephone, email, or internet.
You Must Be a U.S. Citizen and at Least 18 Years of Age
You must be a U.S. citizen or a dual-national U.S. citizen to work at CIA. If you are in the process of becoming a U.S. citizen, you can submit your resume as soon as you are awarded citizenship, but not before. We do not help individuals apply for U.S. citizenship.
Also, you must be at least 18 years of age to qualify for a job at CIA.
You Must Be Willing to Move to the Washington, DC Area
Our officers are from all over the country and around the world. But keep in mind that all positions are in the Washington, DC area and some require overseas travel. You must be willing to move if you don’t already live in the Washington metropolitan area. For questions about relocation, please speak to your recruiter.
You Must Complete Security and Medical Evaluations
Because of the classified nature of our work, all CIA applicants must go through a comprehensive security clearance process.
During the background investigation, we interview neighbors, friends, supervisors, and co-workers to evaluate your character, trustworthiness, and loyalty to the United States. We also look into any conflicts of interest or potential for coercion, as well as your ability to protect sensitive information.
Polygraph interviews are mandatory, with no exceptions. Our polygraph examiners are highly trained security professionals. We keep all answers confidential.
During the clearance process, you also need to complete a medical exam to assess your physical and mental health as it relates to essential job duties. We take the protection, release, and use of health information very seriously and follow strict privacy standards as stated in the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA).
You Must Be Registered for the Selective Service
If you are required to register for the Selective Service, you must do so before we consider you for employment.
Security Concerns and Potential Disqualifiers
We understand that no one is perfect. For this reason, we assess each candidate as a whole, rather than based on a single mistake or issue from the past. To increase transparency, here are some common reasons for disqualification.
Lack of candor, or dishonesty, at any point in the hiring process, is the number one reason for disqualification. Not only does honesty build trust, but it also helps move the hiring process along faster.
CIA is a drug free workplace and carefully evaluates drug use during the hiring process. CIA is bound by Federal Law, which prohibits us from granting security clearances to active users of federally illegal controlled substances, including marijuana.
- Marijuana: Although some states have legalized marijuana use, marijuana remains illegal under federal law. Those who are invited to apply must not have used marijuana or products containing THC* within 90 days prior to submitting an application, or any time thereafter. This includes prescription medical marijuana.
- All other illegal drugs or misused prescriptions: A prospective officer should not have used any other illegal drugs or misused prescription drugs within 12 months prior to submitting an application, or any time thereafter.
Please note: Accurate and consistent reporting of previous drug use, including marijuana, is expected through each phase of processing.
Footnote*: THC products are defined as containing more than 0.3% by dry weight THC.
We trust our employees to uphold the highest standards of conduct. Recent involvement in criminal or unethical behavior can disqualify you from getting a clearance. This includes pending criminal charges, felony convictions, and a dishonorable discharge. In addition, crimes like illegal downloading of copyrighted material can also be an issue.
Throughout this process, we expect quick responses and for you to keep your appointments with us as best you can. If there is anything happening in your life that might interfere with your responsiveness, we recommend waiting to submit your resume via MyLink until you are ready.
For your security, if you are interested in or have submitted your resume via MyLink, do not follow us on social media. This includes posting content, following or friending accounts, and liking or sharing content or commentary.