CIA agents work to preempt threats and further U.S. national security objectives by collecting intelligence, producing analysis, and conducting covert action as directed by the president. The job description of a CIA agent can vary depending on their directorate, but some common tasks include:

• Searching for and collecting information relevant to national security
• Reading foreign media and watching international news
• Analyzing data and intelligence for insights
• Verifying the credibility of information collected via foreign sources
• Monitoring potential foreign threats using satellite imagery
• Researching, developing and testing new technologies used for collecting intelligence

To become a CIA agent, individuals need to meet educational requirements and pass several exams. Some common steps for landing a job as a CIA agent include earning a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, law enforcement or a related field, completing the CIA’s internal training program, and maintaining impeccable integrity. CIA agents need to have a collaborative mindset, cross-cultural communication skills, excellent written communication skills, proficiency in collecting and analyzing data, and the ability to draw appropriate conclusions.

CIA agents can have specialized roles such as Specialized Skills Officer, Paramilitary Operations Officer, or Case Officer. These roles require specific skills and qualifications, but all CIA officers are hired at an entry level and train as they are expected to work – as one team. CIA agents serve primarily at CIA Headquarters, but there are frequent opportunities for temporary duty travel and/or assignments overseas.