We surveyed 2,612 intelligence analysts to better understand the work environment and required skills of a typical intelligence analyst. Here are the results.
How much intelligence is required as an intelligence analyst?
Low
High
Working as an intelligence analyst typically requires higher levels of intelligence when compared with the average career. This means that intelligence analysts are required to actively learn new things related to their discipline and solve complex problems.
Can I learn to become an intelligence analyst?
Intrinsic Talent
Acquired Talent
A career as an intelligence analyst typically depends predominantly on qualities you can gain through experience, with a small aspect of skills you are born with.
Is it easy to get a job as an intelligence analyst?
Easy
Hard
It’s typically difficult to find a job as an intelligence analyst. If you’re curious about the numbers, check out the job market for intelligence analysts.
Do intelligence analysts work full-time or part-time?
94% of intelligence analysts work in full-time roles while 6% work part-time.
Is being an intelligence analyst stressful?
Low
High
Intelligence analysts tend not to find their jobs stressful, which likely contributes positively to career satisfaction.
Is being organized important as an intelligence analyst?
Low
High
Some level of organization is generally required to be an intelligence analyst.
How competitive is the workplace for intelligence analysts?
Low
High
Intelligence analysts see mild competition in their workplace.
Does being an intelligence analyst require frequent time pressure to complete tasks?
Low
High
Intelligence analysts will have to sometimes face time pressure on the job.
Are intelligence analysts allowed to express themselves creatively?
Low
High
Intelligence analysts rarely get a chance to express themselves creatively.
Do intelligence analysts have control over the direction of their work?
Low
High
Intelligence analysts tend to have a set and inflexible work schedule that they are unable to deviate from too much.
Is being an intelligence analyst physically demanding?
Low
High
Work as an intelligence analysts is rarely physically demanding, making it a suitable option for those unable to perform physically strenuous tasks.
Are intelligence analysts exposed to a wide variety of work?
Low
High
While sometimes repetitive, intelligence analysts tend to have opportunities for variety in their work.
Does being an intelligence analyst require attention to detail?
Low
High
Attention to detail is a vital skill for intelligence analysts, as small mistakes can make or break one's ability to succeed in the career.
Does being a good intelligence analyst require compassion and empathy?
Low
High
The ability to be compassion and empathetic isn't considered fundamental to success as an intelligence analyst.