If you enjoyed my last column on black ops, perhaps you’re up for something with a bit more commitmen t— a full-time career with the Central Intelligence Agency. Like many post-military career options, few consider leveraging their military and overseas experience to win a job at the “Agency.” Knowing that the intelligence community has recruited heavily from the ranks of the uniformed services, I set out to do a bit of research for those considering a career at the CIA and went right to the source for answers.

The application process can be a bit challenging. The Agency receives more than 3,000 resumes each month. In fact, in 2005, it received more than 138,000 applications for only 2,200 openings.

A month after my first call, I was having breakfast with former CIA Director George J. Tenet. We spent much time talking about service, specifically the commitment of those who support our nation’s intelligence services. From the days of the fabled Office of Strategic Services to today’s modern but no less turbulent CIA, the collection of human intelligence has always played an invaluablerole in our nation’s defense.

It’s hard to imagine that any agency (or service) plays a more important role in protecting the United States from terrorism. Despite this contribution, service and sacrifice of CIA agents is generally unacknowledged. I was struck by the remarkable similarity between those in uniform and the CIA—patriotism and deep commitment to living a life of meaning. There is also a shared zest for life, relishing adventure and excitement.

As is the military, the CIA is not a monolithic entity. The agency consists of four distinct areas, each with its own culture and rules; the directorates of operations, science and technology, intelligence, and support. The most secretive yet most talked about is operations, the clandestine service. These people are in the business of recruiting and managing agents — spies — in foreign countries. Field operations personnel are generally referred to as case officers and usually operate under cover. This career field is not for the faint of heart. It requires an extraordinary commitment and strong philosophical belief in the mission. Intelligence, by contrast, is responsible for developing collection requirements and the processing of the raw data. Science and technology is the research, development, and technology division within the agency. Its staff source or build surveillance and communications equipment to support both operations and intelligence. Support provides all critical infrastructure roles that help the agency operate: Security, human resources, plant, and equipment.

Veterans have advantages in the application process. With Air Force GeneralMike Hayden and his deputy, Stephen Kappes, a Marine veteran, leading the agency, there is clearly strong appreciation for military service at Langley. Many of the CIA’s positions require the same kinds of professional development found in the military. Although there is no specific veterans’ preference advantage for those who served,service members have a clear edge over their civilian counterparts.
“There is a deep and growing connection between our military and the agency — so many of our most successful employees served their nation in uniform,” said former Director Tenet. “We’re really looking for people with the kind of experience developed through service in uniform. They are extremely competitive in the application process, and I know the agency welcomes their desire to apply.”

New applicants must be over 18, U.S. citizens, and able to hold a security clearance. A college degree, preferably advanced, is required for overseas officers, intelligence analysts, and all nonclerical positions. Potential candidates are almost always asked to undergo a polygraph examination. The application process is lengthy and can take between 2 and 12 months to complete.

The gateway to field operations is the agency’s Clandestine Service Trainee Program. Qualifications are stringent and require all of the above plus a first-rate academic record. Candidates must also be under 35 at the time of the application. According to the CIA, “We are particularly interested in candidates with backgrounds in Central Eurasian, East Asian, and Middle Eastern languages.”

Fortunately — for the CIA — many service members have earned those qualifications the hard way, through service in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Candidates can apply online at www. cia.gov/employment or through USAJobs.com. Positions within the National Clandestine Service — the Directorate of Operations — require candidates to complete an online application at www.cia.gov/employment/resume.html?p=Professional%20Trainee%20Program.

Near the main building in the old CIA headquarters is a wall engraved with 83 stars, a silent memorial to those CIA officers who gave their lives in service to their country. An opposing wall is engraved with an excerpt from John 8:32, “And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” For those truly committed to making a difference in these turbulent times, it’s hard to imagine a more important and rewarding career than serving at the CIA.

Mr. Michel is founder of Military.com, a company focused on connecting service members, veterans, and their families to the benefits earned while in the service.
He is a former naval flight officer and a member of the Naval Institute board of directors.
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