A Army story from the same road
“I am still getting compliments on my resume. Still getting interviews left and right, and now I have to say no. Very grateful to have so many options suddenly.”
Taranjeet · Sergeant (E-5) · Army · Program Management
Home / Military to civilian jobs / Army / 35L
Counterintelligence Agent
That is Army MOS 35L. Civilian jobs, federal paths, and how the work reads on a resume.
What is in this guide
- Salary range
- $60K to $120K
- Career paths
- 14
- Federal GS series
- 4
- Companies hiring
- 14
- Resume examples
- 8
- Certification paths
- 5
- Questions answered
- 10
What the translation looks like
How it reads in service
Conducted 15+ counterintelligence investigations involving potential insider threats, producing classified reports for command review
How a hiring manager reads it
Led 15+ internal investigations involving policy violations and security risks, conducting witness interviews, collecting digital and physical evidence, and delivering detailed investigative reports to senior leadership
Roles this background maps to
- Counterintelligence Analyst$99,410
- Information Security Analyst$120,360
- Criminal Investigator (Federal)$99,410
Median pay, BLS OEWS May 2024
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Brad TachiNavy Diver · BMR founder
After the Navy he was hired into six federal career fields and tech sales, and sat on federal hiring panels along the way. The last two years went into rebuilding all of it into BMR, tuned for how resumes get screened today. 71,892 resumes built so far.
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What the job actually is
Army Counterintelligence Agents (35L) detect, identify, and neutralize threats to the U.S. Army. They run investigations into espionage, sabotage, treason, and subversion. They conduct threat assessments for installations and deployed forces. They develop and manage human sources. They support force protection across every type of Army unit.
The 35L MOS is one of the most selective in the Army. Entry requires a TS/SCI clearance, a clean background, and strong analytical skills. Many 35L agents hold college degrees before enlisting. Training at Fort Huachuca covers investigation techniques, interview and interrogation, surveillance, source operations, and report writing. Some agents go on to become polygraph examiners or technical surveillance countermeasures (TSCM) specialists.
What makes 35L veterans valuable in the civilian workforce is not just the clearance. It is the combination of investigative skills, analytical thinking, report writing, and the ability to work complex cases from start to finish. These skills translate to careers in corporate security, federal law enforcement, fraud investigation, compliance, and cybersecurity. The TS/SCI clearance is a major asset, but the real value is the training and mindset behind it.
35Ls bring the most underrepresented background in cleared federal hiring — credentialed CI experience that civilian-side analysts almost never have. I've worked across federal hiring and the 0132 Intelligence Specialist series at FBI, DCSA, and DoD components actively recruits former CI agents. — Brad Tachi, Navy Diver veteran & BMR founder
- Security clearance
- TS/SCI (required)
- ASVAB requirement
- ST=101
- Training
- Basic Combat Training, then AIT at Fort Huachuca, AZ. Graduates attend the Counterintelligence Special Agent Course (CISAC). Additional training may include polygraph examiner school, advanced source operations, and technical surveillance countermeasures (TSCM).
- Certs earned in service
- Counterintelligence Special Agent (CISAC graduate), Polygraph Examiner (select agents), Technical Surveillance Countermeasures (TSCM), Force Protection / Antiterrorism Level II, First Aid/CPR/AED
Pay reality check
The number that decides most of this: how does civilian pay compare to what the paycheck looks like now?
Army mid-career
$58K to $82K
E-5 to E-7 total comp: base plus BAH, BAS and the tax advantage.
Civilian Counterintelligence Agent
$60K to $120K
BLS median across the direct-match civilian roles on this page.
Federal, GS-9 to GS-13
$58K to $120K
4 matching GS series, plus locality pay and step increases.
About 32% higher on average
Civilian roles for Counterintelligence Agents pay about $22K more than mid-career enlisted total comp.
Military comp is approximate and moves with location and dependents. Civilian is the BLS median. Federal includes locality pay. The real number depends on duty station, family status, GS step and overtime.
Private sector career paths
The private sector demand for counterintelligence skills has grown fast. Insider threat programs, corporate espionage prevention, and due diligence investigations are now standard at large companies. Defense contractors need CI professionals who already hold clearances. Financial institutions need fraud investigators. Tech companies need people who can protect intellectual property.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024), information security analysts earn a median salary of $120,360 per year. Private investigators and detectives earn a median of $59,780, though corporate investigation roles at major firms pay well above that. Management analysts earn a median of $99,410, and compliance officers earn $75,670.
Defense and intelligence contractors are the most direct path. Companies like Booz Allen Hamilton, SAIC, Leidos, CACI, and Northrop Grumman hire former 35L agents for roles in counterintelligence analysis, insider threat programs, and security consulting. These positions often require an active TS/SCI and pay $85,000 to $140,000+ depending on location and experience. The DC Metro area, San Antonio, and Tampa are the biggest hubs for this work.
Corporate security is another strong path. Banks, tech companies, and pharmaceutical firms run internal investigation teams. Former CI agents bring interview skills, case management experience, and a structured approach to evidence collection. These roles may not require a clearance, which means your salary comes from your skills rather than your access.
If you want to stay close to the mission, consulting firms hire former CI agents to advise foreign governments, train partner nation security forces, or support ongoing intelligence programs. This work often involves travel and may require maintaining your clearance through the contracting company.
Security Clearance Jobs: Salary by Clearance Level breaks down what your TS/SCI is worth in different industries.
Civilian job title translations
| Civilian job title | Industry | BLS median salary | Outlook | Match |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Counterintelligence AnalystO*NET 13-1111.00 | Defense / Intelligence | $99,410 | Faster than average (10%) | strong |
| Information Security AnalystO*NET 15-1212.00 | Technology / Defense / Finance | $120,360 | Much faster than average (33%) | strong |
| Criminal Investigator (Federal)O*NET 33-3021.03 | Government / Law Enforcement | $99,410 | About as fast as average | strong |
| Compliance OfficerO*NET 13-1041.00 | Finance / Healthcare / Energy | $75,670 | About as fast as average (5%) | strong |
| Private Detective / Corporate InvestigatorO*NET 33-9021.00 | Professional Services / Corporate | $59,780 | Faster than average (6%) | strong |
| Security ConsultantO*NET 13-1111.00 | Consulting / Defense | $99,410 | Faster than average (10%) | moderate |
| Financial Examiner / Fraud InvestigatorO*NET 13-2061.00 | Finance / Government | $86,280 | Faster than average (11%) | moderate |
| Intelligence Analyst (Private Sector)O*NET 13-1199.00 | Defense / Corporate / Consulting | $99,410 | Faster than average (10%) | strong |
Companies that hire this background
Booz Allen HamiltonMilitary Hiring Program
One of the largest employers of former intelligence professionals. CI analysis, insider threat, and security consulting roles. Active TS/SCI typically required.
SAICMilitary Veteran Program
Major defense contractor with intelligence and cybersecurity divisions. Counterintelligence, threat analysis, and security operations roles.
LeidosMilitary Skills Translator
Intelligence analysis, insider threat program management, and security consulting. Strong presence in DC Metro and San Antonio.
CACI InternationalMilitary Transition Program
CI support, HUMINT operations, and intelligence analysis roles. Known for supporting Army and IC programs directly.
Northrop GrummanOperation IMPACT
Insider threat, counterintelligence, and security roles across classified programs. Strong benefits and veteran support.
ManTech International
Intelligence operations support, cyber threat analysis, and CI program management. Heavily focused on IC mission support.
L3Harris TechnologiesVeterans Employee Network
ISR systems, intelligence analysis, and electronic warfare. CI agents with TSCM experience are a strong fit.
FBIVeterans Recruitment
Special Agent and Intelligence Analyst positions. CISAC training and CI experience count toward qualification. Long application timeline but strong career path.
CIA
Operations officers, analysts, and support staff. Former 35L agents with source handling experience are valued. Apply through cia.gov careers.
DIA
Defense intelligence analysis, counterintelligence, and threat assessment. Direct mission alignment with 35L skills. GS positions.
NSA
Cybersecurity, signals intelligence, and counterintelligence roles. Fort Meade is the primary location. CI agents with cyber experience are in demand.
DCSA (Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency)
Background investigations, industrial security, and CI support. DCSA is the largest employer of background investigators in the federal government. Remote work available.
DHS / ICE Homeland Security Investigations
HSI Special Agents investigate national security threats, financial crimes, and cyber crimes. CI background is directly applicable. 1811 series positions.
DeloitteMilitary Veteran Network
Risk advisory, forensic investigations, and security consulting. Former CI agents bring investigation and analytical skills valued in the advisory practice.
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Federal career paths
Federal careers are a natural fit for 35L veterans. The skills you built in the Army map directly to federal job series, and your TS/SCI clearance gives you access to positions that many civilian applicants cannot touch.
The strongest federal matches include:
- GS-0132 Intelligence - Intelligence analysis and collection management at DIA, CIA, NSA, and service-level intelligence agencies. Your CI background qualifies you for counterintelligence analyst positions across the IC.
- GS-1811 Criminal Investigator - FBI Special Agent, NCIS Agent, Army CID (as a civilian), ICE HSI, Secret Service, DEA. Your CISAC training and investigation experience count toward the qualification requirements. FBI and other agencies actively recruit former military CI agents.
- GS-0080 Security Specialist - Security specialist positions at DoD, DOE, and other agencies. Industrial security, personnel security, information security. Your CI background is a direct match.
- GS-1801 General Inspection, Investigation, Enforcement - Inspector General offices, compliance and oversight roles across federal agencies.
- GS-0301 Miscellaneous Administration - Program analyst and management analyst roles in intelligence community agencies. Many CI agents move into program management.
- GS-0343 Management and Program Analysis - Policy development, program evaluation, and organizational analysis. Your experience writing threat assessments and briefing commanders translates to this work.
- GS-1810 General Investigation - Background investigators for DCSA (Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency). High demand, remote work available, and your investigation skills transfer directly.
- GS-0201 Human Resources Management - Personnel security and suitability adjudication. Less obvious, but CI agents who handled personnel security investigations often qualify.
- GS-2210 IT Management - IT specialist roles with a security focus. Cybersecurity analysts and information assurance positions in the IC.
- GS-1805 Investigative Analysis - Analytical positions supporting law enforcement and intelligence investigations. Report writing and evidence analysis are core to this series.
Federal resumes are 2 pages max. They need specific details like hours per week, supervisor name, and exact employment dates. Build yours with the BMR Federal Resume Builder to get the format right.
Veterans Preference gives you 5 or 10 extra points on federal hiring assessments. Some agencies use Direct Hire Authority for intelligence and security positions, which can speed up the process. Start applying on USAJobs at least 6 months before your ETS date. Federal hiring is slow.
How to Land a GS-12 Federal Job After Military Service covers the application strategy in detail.
Federal series and position matches
| Series | Federal job title | Typical grades | Match | Explore |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GS-0132 | Intelligence | GS-11, GS-12, GS-13 | 5 of 5 | View details |
| GS-0080 | Security Administration | GS-9, GS-11, GS-12 | 4 of 5 | View details |
| GS-1810 | General Investigating | GS-7, GS-9, GS-11 | 4 of 5 | View details |
| GS-1811 | Criminal Investigator | GS-9, GS-11, GS-12, GS-13 | 3 of 5 | View details |
Federal resumes follow different rules. We know them.
Federal raters match your record against the announcement's specialized experience statement. BMR writes the federal format for any GS series above, with the hours per week and supervisor detail a rater looks for.
Free to start. Federal and private sector formats included.
Want to change careers entirely?
Not everyone stays in a related field. These paths run on the transferable half of the job: leadership, risk, logistics, planning.
Information Security Analyst$120,360 median · Technology / Finance / Defense · O*NET 15-1212.00
CI agents already think like threat analysts. You assess vulnerabilities, evaluate adversary capabilities, and recommend mitigations. Cyber threat analysis is this same process applied to digital infrastructure. The 33% growth rate means strong demand through 2033.
Transfers: Threat assessment, Insider threat detection, Risk analysis, Security program management, Incident investigation.
How to get there: CompTIA Security+ is the entry point. CISSP for senior roles. CI agents with any exposure to cyber threats or digital forensics have a head start. Many employers accept military experience in place of a degree for mid-level positions.
BLS OEWS May 2024 · Much faster than average (33%)
Compliance Officer$75,670 median · Finance / Healthcare / Energy · O*NET 13-1041.00
Compliance is about identifying violations, investigating them, documenting findings, and recommending corrective action. That is exactly what CI agents do, just in a different regulatory framework. Banking (BSA/AML) and healthcare compliance roles value investigation backgrounds.
Transfers: Regulatory knowledge, Investigation skills, Report writing, Audit experience, Attention to detail.
How to get there: CCEP or CAMS certification depending on the industry. Many compliance roles accept investigation experience in place of industry-specific background. Entry-level positions are available at banks, insurance companies, and healthcare systems.
BLS OEWS May 2024 · About as fast as average (5%)
Fraud Examiner / Financial Investigator$86,280 median · Finance / Insurance / Consulting · O*NET 13-2061.00
Financial investigations use the same skills as CI investigations: interviewing witnesses, collecting and preserving evidence, analyzing patterns, and writing reports. The CFE certification from ACFE is the industry standard and your CI experience counts toward the experience requirement.
Transfers: Interview techniques, Evidence collection, Case management, Analytical reporting, Pattern recognition.
How to get there: CFE certification from ACFE. Big 4 accounting firms (Deloitte, PwC, EY, KPMG) hire for forensic investigation teams. Banks and insurance companies have internal investigation units. No finance degree required for many positions.
BLS OEWS May 2024 · Faster than average (11%)
Management Analyst / Consultant$99,410 median · Consulting / Government / Corporate · O*NET 13-1111.00
CI agents analyze complex problems, evaluate multiple sources of information, and deliver clear recommendations to decision-makers. Management consulting requires the same analytical process applied to business operations. Defense consulting firms value your clearance and domain knowledge.
Transfers: Analytical thinking, Report writing, Process evaluation, Stakeholder briefings, Data-driven recommendations.
How to get there: PMP certification strengthens candidacy. Defense consulting firms (Booz Allen, Deloitte, SAIC) are the most direct path. Big 4 firms also hire veterans for their government and risk advisory practices. MBA not required but helpful for civilian consulting firms.
BLS OEWS May 2024 · Faster than average (10%)
Corporate Security Manager$102,950 median · Corporate / Technology / Finance · O*NET 11-9199.00
Corporate security departments protect companies from insider threats, competitive intelligence, executive protection needs, and physical security risks. Former CI agents bring a structured approach to threat evaluation and investigation management that corporate security teams value.
Transfers: Threat assessment, Security program design, Investigation oversight, Crisis management, Executive communication.
How to get there: CPP (Certified Protection Professional) from ASIS International. Start in a security analyst or investigator role and move into management. Tech companies, financial institutions, and pharmaceutical firms have large corporate security teams.
BLS OEWS May 2024 · Faster than average (5%)
Background Investigator (DCSA)$75,670 median · Federal Government · O*NET 33-3021.04
DCSA (Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency) is the largest employer of background investigators in the federal government. Your CI investigation skills transfer directly. Many positions allow remote work. GS-1810 series positions.
Transfers: Interview techniques, Report writing, Investigation management, Source development, Record analysis.
How to get there: Apply through USAJobs for GS-1810 positions at DCSA. Your CISAC training and investigation experience qualify you. No additional certification required. Remote work is common. Federal benefits and stability.
BLS OEWS May 2024 · About as fast as average
Pivoting industries does not mean starting from scratch.
The skills behind the specialty carry further than the specialty. BMR rewrites your bullets for any of the paths above without making it sound like you have never done the work.
Free to start. Try as many angles as you want.
Skills translation guide
If you are applying to counterintelligence or intelligence positions at defense contractors, they already know what a 35L does. You probably do not need this section for those jobs.
But if you are applying outside of intelligence (corporate security, compliance, consulting, financial crime, or any non-defense role), the hiring manager will not know what "CISAC graduate" or "conducted source operations" means. The translations below reframe your 35L experience for non-intelligence industries. These are not just word swaps. They show how to present your work in a way that connects with hiring managers who have never held a clearance.
For your full resume translation, use the BMR Military Resume Builder. It handles the heavy lifting for every section.
Resume bullet examples
Before, in service
Conducted 15+ counterintelligence investigations involving potential insider threats, producing classified reports for command review
After, on the resume
Led 15+ internal investigations involving policy violations and security risks, conducting witness interviews, collecting digital and physical evidence, and delivering detailed investigative reports to senior leadership
Before, in service
Developed and managed a network of human sources, producing actionable intelligence that supported force protection decisions
After, on the resume
Built and maintained a network of confidential contacts across multiple organizations, gathering competitive intelligence and early-warning indicators that informed executive risk decisions
Before, in service
Conducted threat assessments for 3 installations covering physical security, personnel vulnerabilities, and information security gaps
After, on the resume
Performed comprehensive risk assessments for 3 facilities, evaluating physical security controls, personnel vulnerabilities, and information protection gaps, then recommended prioritized mitigation strategies to senior management
Before, in service
Briefed battalion and brigade commanders on counterintelligence threats, providing actionable recommendations that shaped force protection posture
After, on the resume
Presented investigative findings and risk analyses to C-suite executives, translating complex threat data into clear recommendations that informed security investment decisions and organizational policy changes
Before, in service
Conducted over 50 interviews and interrogations in support of counterintelligence investigations, obtaining critical admissions and corroborating evidence
After, on the resume
Conducted over 50 structured investigative interviews, using rapport-building and behavioral analysis techniques to obtain truthful disclosures, document findings, and support case resolution
Before, in service
Managed SCIF operations including access control for 40+ personnel, security audits, and compliance with ICD 705 physical security standards
After, on the resume
Managed secure facility operations for 40+ personnel, enforcing access control policies, conducting quarterly security audits, and maintaining compliance with federal data protection standards
Before, in service
Authored 30+ intelligence information reports and CI assessments disseminated to theater-level intelligence consumers
After, on the resume
Authored 30+ detailed analytical reports for multi-stakeholder distribution, evaluating source reliability, assessing confidence levels, and providing prioritized recommendations that influenced organizational security strategy
Before, in service
Supported force protection programs for a 5,000-person installation, conducting vulnerability assessments and coordinating with local law enforcement on threat information
After, on the resume
Managed enterprise security programs for a 5,000-person campus, conducting vulnerability assessments, coordinating with external law enforcement agencies, and implementing physical protection improvements that reduced security incidents by 30%
Get bullets like these written from your own record.
BMR turns your 35L duties and accomplishments into civilian bullets aimed at the job you are applying for. No manual translation.
Free to start. Tailored to each posting.
Certifications by career path
Which ones you need depends on where you are headed.
Compliance & Regulatory
CCEP (Certified Compliance and Ethics Professional)SCCE
BeneficialCost $400 - $600Time 2-3 months study
CAMS (Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist)ACAMS
BeneficialCost $1,500 - $2,000Time 2-3 months study
Cybersecurity
CompTIA Security+CompTIA
RecommendedCost $350 - $400Time 2-3 months studyGI Bill eligible
CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional)ISC2
BeneficialCost $750 - $800Time 3-6 months studyGI Bill eligible
CRISC (Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control)ISACA
BeneficialCost $575 - $760Time 3-6 months study
CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker)EC-Council
BeneficialCost $1,200 - $1,500Time 2-3 months studyGI Bill eligible
Investigations
CFE (Certified Fraud Examiner)ACFE
RecommendedCost $400 - $500Time 3-6 months studyGI Bill eligible
PCI (Professional Certified Investigator)ASIS International
RecommendedCost $350 - $500Time 2-4 months study
ASIS Certified Protection Professional (CPP) + PCI ComboASIS International
RecommendedCost $700 - $1,100 combinedTime 4-8 months study
Project Management
PMP (Project Management Professional)PMI
BeneficialCost $400 - $600Time 3-6 months studyGI Bill eligible
Security Management
CPP (Certified Protection Professional)ASIS International
RecommendedCost $400 - $600Time 3-6 months study
PSP (Physical Security Professional)ASIS International
BeneficialCost $350 - $500Time 2-4 months study
Got a cert? Do not bury it.
Placement decides whether a screener ever sees it. BMR knows where each one ranks, what to call it, and how to frame it.
Free to start. Built around your real certs and clearance.
Transition resources
For Staying in Intelligence and Security
Defense Contractors: Booz Allen, SAIC, Leidos, CACI, Northrop Grumman, ManTech, and L3Harris all hire former 35L agents. Many have dedicated military hiring programs. Apply directly through their veteran career pages and mention your MOS and clearance status. Your TS/SCI is the ticket in the door.
Federal Law Enforcement: FBI, NCIS, Army CID (civilian), ICE HSI, and Secret Service actively recruit veterans with CI backgrounds. Application timelines are long (6-18 months), so start early. The FBI has a specific military veteran hiring page.
SkillBridge: Some defense contractors and federal agencies participate in DOD SkillBridge, letting you work civilian jobs during your last 180 days of service while still earning military pay. Search the SkillBridge database for intelligence and security openings. SkillBridge 2026 guide has the full breakdown.
Clearance Maintenance: Your TS/SCI stays active for up to 24 months after separation if not renewed. Do not let it lapse. A lapsed TS/SCI costs employers $5,000-$15,000+ and months to reinstate. ClearanceJobs.com lists positions that require active clearances. Security Clearance After Separation covers the timelines.
For Careers Outside of Intelligence
Corporate Investigations: The Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE) is the main professional body for corporate investigators. The CFE certification is the gold standard. Your CI investigation skills (interviewing, evidence analysis, report writing) apply directly.
Compliance and Risk: Industries like banking, healthcare, and energy all need compliance officers. Start with industry-specific certifications: CAMS (anti-money laundering), CCEP (compliance and ethics), or CRISC (risk and information systems control). Your background in identifying threats and conducting assessments translates well.
Cybersecurity: If you worked cyber-related CI cases or supported cyber threat assessments, consider CompTIA Security+, CISSP, or CEH certifications. The cybersecurity field has strong demand and values the analytical mindset CI agents bring. Cybersecurity Jobs Veterans Can Land Without a Degree has the roadmap.
Federal Employment (USAJobs): Create your USAJobs profile now. Do not wait until you separate. Use the Veterans filter. Federal resumes are 2 pages max. Build yours here.
Veteran Networking: American Corporate Partners (ACP) provides free mentorship from corporate executives. You will get paired with someone in your target industry. ACP is legitimate and completely free for veterans. Informational Interviews for Veterans shows you how to network effectively.
Education Benefits: Do not sleep on your GI Bill for professional certifications. Many certification exam fees and prep courses are covered. Check the GI Bill Comparison Tool to verify program approval before enrolling.
SFL-TAP: Start the Soldier for Life - Transition Assistance Program as early as possible. The career skills track and individual counseling are worth your time.
BMR Career Resources
Jobs for Veterans by MOS | Translate Military Experience to a Civilian Resume | Top Companies Hiring Veterans 2026 | Build Your Resume Free
Related Career Guides
Army 35F Intelligence Analyst | Army 35M HUMINT Collector | Army 31D CID Special Agent | Marine Corps 0211 CI/HUMINT | Navy CTN Cryptologic Technician Networks | Air Force 1N0X1 All Source Intelligence Analyst | Coast Guard IS Intelligence Specialist
Your 30, 60, 90-day transition plan
Most people do this backwards: wait for terminal leave, then panic. This is the sequence that works. Already out? Same plan, day one is today.
Days 0 to 30
Set the foundation
- Pull your DD-214 (request it from milConnect if you are already separated)
- List your top three civilian roles and your top three GS series
- Build your tailored 35L resume, free
- Write one strong LinkedIn headline, not "veteran seeking opportunities"
- Gather your evals and performance reports for the accomplishments
Days 30 to 60
Apply with intent
- Apply to five to ten jobs a week, quality over volume
- Tailor every resume to the announcement (BMR does this part for you)
- Connect with five people a week on LinkedIn, not a spray
- Set up a USAJOBS profile and a saved search for your GS series
- Say your bullets out loud to a civilian friend and fix what they do not follow
Days 60 to 90
Close the offer
- Track every application: date, status, contact, notes
- Follow up seven to ten days after each one
- Prep behavioral interviews with the STAR method
- Negotiate. The BLS median is your floor, not the offer
- Keep applying after the first offer. Options are the leverage
Questions about 35L
What civilian jobs can a 35L Counterintelligence Agent get?
The strongest matches are counterintelligence analyst at defense contractors (Booz Allen, SAIC, Leidos), corporate security investigator, compliance officer, fraud examiner, cybersecurity analyst, and federal law enforcement (FBI, NCIS, ICE HSI). Your TS/SCI clearance opens doors at defense and intelligence contractors. Without a clearance requirement, your investigation and analytical skills transfer to corporate investigations, risk management, and financial crime roles.
How much do former 35L agents make in the civilian world?
It depends on the career path. According to BLS May 2024 data, information security analysts earn a median of $120,360. Management analysts earn $99,410. Compliance officers earn $75,670. Private investigators earn $59,780, though corporate investigation roles at large firms pay more. Defense contractor CI positions typically range from $85,000 to $140,000+ depending on location, clearance status, and experience level.
Is my TS/SCI clearance valuable after the Army?
Yes. A TS/SCI clearance saves employers $5,000 to $15,000+ and months of processing time. Defense contractors, intelligence agencies, and some financial institutions require clearances for specific roles. Your clearance stays active for up to 24 months after separation if not renewed. Do not let it lapse. Sites like ClearanceJobs.com list positions that require active clearances.
What federal jobs hire former 35L agents?
The strongest federal matches are GS-0132 Intelligence, GS-1811 Criminal Investigator (FBI, NCIS, CID civilian, ICE HSI), GS-0080 Security Specialist, GS-1810 General Investigation (DCSA background investigators), and GS-1801 Inspection/Investigation/Enforcement. Many IC agencies use Direct Hire Authority for intelligence positions, which can speed up the hiring process. Apply on USAJobs at least 6 months before your ETS date.
Do I need a degree to get hired as a civilian CI analyst?
Not always. Defense contractors often accept military CI experience in place of a degree, especially with an active TS/SCI. Federal GS positions allow you to qualify based on specialized experience. However, some agencies (like the FBI for Special Agent positions) require a four-year degree. A degree in criminal justice, intelligence studies, or cybersecurity strengthens your resume for competitive positions, but your CISAC training and field experience carry real weight.
How do I write a resume for counterintelligence jobs after the Army?
For defense contractor and IC positions, use your military terminology. They know what CISAC, source operations, and threat assessments mean. For jobs outside of intelligence, translate your skills into business language. Focus on investigation management, risk assessment, analytical reporting, and team leadership. Federal resumes are 2 pages max and need specific details like hours per week and supervisor contact info. Use the BMR Military Resume Builder to handle the translation automatically.
What certifications help 35L agents in the civilian job market?
For cybersecurity: CompTIA Security+, CISSP, or CEH. For investigations: CFE (Certified Fraud Examiner) from ACFE. For compliance: CCEP or CAMS. For project management: PMP. For federal law enforcement: your CISAC training counts as specialized experience, but FLETC Basic Criminal Investigator Training may be required. Many of these certifications are covered by the GI Bill.
How does Veterans Preference work for federal intelligence jobs?
Veterans Preference gives you 5 or 10 extra points on federal hiring assessments. Disabled veterans get 10 points. Some intelligence positions use excepted service hiring (not competitive service), where Veterans Preference applies differently. Direct Hire Authority positions may not apply Veterans Preference at all. Create your USAJobs profile, upload your DD-214 (Member 4 copy), and use the Veterans filter when searching. Start 6 months before separation because federal hiring moves slowly.
Can I do SkillBridge as a 35L?
Yes. Some defense contractors and consulting firms participate in DOD SkillBridge, which lets you work a civilian job during your last 180 days of service while still earning military pay. Search the SkillBridge database for intelligence, security, and investigation openings. Your command must approve participation, and you need to start the paperwork early. SkillBridge is one of the best transition tools available.
What is the job market like for counterintelligence professionals?
Demand is strong in 2026. Insider threat programs are now required at defense contractors and many large corporations. Cybersecurity threats have increased demand for professionals who understand both human and technical intelligence. The intelligence community continues to hire. BLS projects information security analyst jobs to grow 33% through 2033, much faster than average. The biggest hiring markets are the DC Metro area, San Antonio, Tampa, and Huntsville.
Salary data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2024. Career data from O*NET OnLine.
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