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MarinesMOS: 0231
Intelligence Specialist
The civilian and federal jobs that hire Marines Intelligence Specialists — with real salaries and the resume that gets callbacks.
Every 0231 has more options than a Google search will tell you. Below: career paths, BLS salary data, federal GS series, certifications by target career, and how to translate your experience without losing what made you valuable to the Marines in the first place.
Free · No credit card · Tailored resume in under 5 minutes
$60K–$139K
Salary Range
BLS-verified median salaries
14
Career Paths
12
Companies Hiring
8
Resume Examples
10
Federal GS Series
5
Certification Paths
10
FAQs Answered
BT
Brad Tachi
Navy Diver · BMR Founder
After the Navy I got hired into 6 federal career fields and tech sales, and sat on federal hiring panels along the way. I spent the last 2 years rebuilding everything I learned into BMR, tuned for how AI actually screens resumes today. This is the system I wish I'd had on day one.
60,000+ resumes built·Success stories every week
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Military Role Overview
Marine Corps Intelligence Specialists (MOS 0231) are the analytical backbone of Marine air-ground task force (MAGTF) intelligence operations. They collect, process, analyze, and disseminate intelligence from multiple sources — imagery (GEOINT), signals (SIGINT), human intelligence (HUMINT), and open sources (OSINT) — to produce all-source intelligence products that drive operational decisions from the battalion to the MEF level.
The 0231 pipeline begins at NMITC Dam Neck, Virginia, with approximately 13 weeks of foundational training covering intelligence analysis methodology, collection management, threat assessment, and intelligence product creation. After the schoolhouse, 0231s are assigned to intelligence sections (S-2/G-2) within infantry battalions, regiments, MEFs, or specialized intelligence units. Many receive follow-on training in GEOINT exploitation, SIGINT analysis, targeting, or advanced analytical tools depending on their assignment.
What distinguishes 0231s in the civilian job market is the breadth of their analytical training. Unlike specialists focused on a single intelligence discipline, 0231s are trained to synthesize information from multiple sources into coherent assessments. They produce intelligence summaries, threat briefings, target packages, and operational products under real-world time pressure — the same analytical rigor that civilian employers in intelligence, cybersecurity, data analysis, and consulting need.
BMR data shows 0231s land cleared analyst offers at NCIS, DIA, and major defense contractors faster than almost any other Marine intel MOS — provided the resume actually translates the all-source workflow into civilian language. The clearance opens the door; analytical structure lands the offer. — Brad Tachi, Navy Diver veteran & BMR founder
Security ClearanceTS/SCI (minimum)
ASVAB RequirementGT 110+
TrainingBasic Intelligence Course at NMITC Dam Neck, VA (~13 weeks) covering intelligence fundamentals, analysis methodology, collection management, and intelligence product creation. Follow-on training may include GEOINT, SIGINT analysis, or advanced all-source courses depending on assignment.
Certs Earned in ServiceSecurity+ (billet-dependent), First Aid/CPR/AED
Pay Reality Check
The number that matters when you're deciding what's next: how does civilian pay compare to what you make now?
Marines mid-career
$58K–$82K
E-5 to E-7 total comp (base + BAH + BAS + tax advantage)
Civilian Intelligence Specialist
$65K–$120K
BLS median across direct-match civilian roles
Federal (GS-9 to GS-13)
$58K–$120K
10 matching GS series + locality pay + step increases
+29% on average
Civilian roles for Intelligence Specialists pay ~$20K more than mid-career enlisted total comp.
Military comp is approximate (varies by location/dependents). Civilian is BLS median. Federal includes locality pay. Your real number depends on duty station, family status, GS step, and overtime.
Private Sector Career Paths
The private sector demand for all-source intelligence analysis skills extends well beyond traditional defense contracting. Data analytics, threat intelligence, corporate risk assessment, and cybersecurity firms all recruit people who can take disparate data, analyze it critically, and produce actionable recommendations.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024), intelligence analysts earn a median annual wage of $99,710 (O*NET 33-3021.06). Information security analysts earn a median of $120,360 (O*NET 15-1212.00) with projected growth of 33% — one of the fastest-growing occupations. Market research analysts earn a median of $74,680 (O*NET 13-1161.00), and operations research analysts earn $83,640 (O*NET 15-2031.00).
The TS/SCI clearance is a major asset. Defense contractors and intelligence community support firms pay significant premiums for cleared analysts. But even without leveraging the clearance, the analytical methodology — hypothesis testing, source evaluation, confidence-level assessments — translates to any data-driven role.
Civilian Job Title Translations
| Civilian Job Title | Industry | BLS Median Salary | Outlook | Match |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Intelligence Analyst O*NET: 33-3021.06 | Government / Defense / Intelligence | $99,710 | Much faster than average (8%) | strong |
Information Security Analyst O*NET: 15-1212.00 | Cybersecurity / IT | $120,360 | Much faster than average (33%) | strong |
Operations Research Analyst O*NET: 15-2031.00 | Government / Consulting / Finance | $83,640 | Much faster than average (23%) | moderate |
Market Research Analyst O*NET: 13-1161.00 | Marketing / Consulting / Corporate | $74,680 | Much faster than average (13%) | moderate |
Management Analyst / Consultant O*NET: 13-1111.00 | Consulting / Government / Corporate | $99,410 | Faster than average (10%) | moderate |
Geospatial Intelligence Analyst O*NET: 15-1299.02 | Government / Defense / Geospatial | $96,620 | Faster than average (7%) | strong |
Data Analyst O*NET: 15-2051.00 | Technology / Finance / Healthcare | $83,640 | Much faster than average (23%) | moderate |
Security Management Specialist O*NET: 33-9032.00 | Corporate Security / Government | $65,080 | About as fast as average (3%) | moderate |
Intelligence Analyst
Government / Defense / Intelligence
$99,710median
Much faster than average (8%)
O*NET: 33-3021.06
Information Security Analyst
Cybersecurity / IT
$120,360median
Much faster than average (33%)
O*NET: 15-1212.00
Operations Research Analyst
Government / Consulting / Finance
$83,640median
Much faster than average (23%)
O*NET: 15-2031.00
Market Research Analyst
Marketing / Consulting / Corporate
$74,680median
Much faster than average (13%)
O*NET: 13-1161.00
Management Analyst / Consultant
Consulting / Government / Corporate
$99,410median
Faster than average (10%)
O*NET: 13-1111.00
Geospatial Intelligence Analyst
Government / Defense / Geospatial
$96,620median
Faster than average (7%)
O*NET: 15-1299.02
Data Analyst
Technology / Finance / Healthcare
$83,640median
Much faster than average (23%)
O*NET: 15-2051.00
Security Management Specialist
Corporate Security / Government
$65,080median
About as fast as average (3%)
O*NET: 33-9032.00
Companies That Hire This Background
One of the largest IC support contractors. All-source analysts, GEOINT analysts, collection managers, and intelligence production roles across DIA, CIA, and combatant commands.
Large intelligence support portfolio. All-source, SIGINT, GEOINT, and multi-discipline intelligence analyst positions. Strong presence at DIA and combatant commands.
Intelligence analysis, cyber operations, and data analytics contracts with IC agencies. SkillBridge participant.
Leading provider of satellite imagery and geospatial intelligence. GEOINT-trained 0231s have direct skill matches for imagery analyst and geospatial product roles.
Intelligence support contracts, electronic warfare, and SIGINT systems. Analyst and technical positions for cleared intelligence professionals.
National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency — direct federal employer for GEOINT analysts. 0231s with imagery analysis training are priority hires.
Defense Intelligence Agency — primary all-source analysis employer in DoD. GS-0132 positions at multiple locations.
Builds intelligence analysis platforms used by the IC and DoD. Hires former intelligence analysts as forward-deployed engineers and product specialists who understand the operational environment.
IC support contracts, data analytics, and intelligence production roles. SkillBridge participant.
ISR systems, signals intelligence, and intelligence analysis support contracts. Cleared analyst positions across multiple agencies.
Leading cybersecurity firm with dedicated threat intelligence teams. Intelligence analysis methodology translates directly to cyber threat analysis.
Government advisory practice hires cleared analysts for federal consulting, risk advisory, and cyber intelligence roles.
See a salary you want? Build a resume targeting it.
BMR rewrites your 0231 experience for any of the civilian roles above — keywords, achievements, and language hiring managers actually scan for.
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Real Marines success story
“Hey Brad, Just wanted to send out a quick thank you. You've created something amazing with BMR and your continued advocacy for transitioning service members does not go unnoticed. It was the most effective resource I used in my transition and I know it played a key role in landing a six figure…”
Dominic· Gunnery Sergeant (E-7)· Marines
→ Project ManagerFederal Career Paths
The federal government is the single largest employer of intelligence analysts in the country. Every intelligence community agency, military service, and many non-IC agencies (DHS, DOE, Treasury, State) employ GS-0132 intelligence analysts. For 0231s with GEOINT experience, GS-1550 (Computer Science) and imagery-specific positions at NGA are strong matches. SIGINT-experienced 0231s have natural pathways to NSA and service cryptologic elements.
Beyond the GS-0132 series, 0231s qualify for GS-0301 (Miscellaneous Administration) positions as program analysts and operations specialists across every federal agency. GS-2210 (IT Specialist) roles in cyber threat intelligence are accessible for 0231s with technical aptitude. GS-0343 (Management Analyst) positions value the analytical methodology and briefing skills that 0231s develop. GS-0340 (Program Management) roles are realistic for senior 0231s who managed collection requirements or intelligence production teams.
Don't overlook non-IC federal positions either. Every major federal agency has an intelligence or analytical function — Treasury (financial intelligence), DOE (counterintelligence), CBP (border intelligence), and Coast Guard Intelligence all employ analysts with military all-source backgrounds.
GS Series & Position Matches
| GS Series | Federal Job Title | Typical Grades | Match | Explore |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GS-0132 | Intelligence | GS-7, GS-9, GS-11, GS-12, GS-13 | View Details → | |
| GS-2210 | Information Technology Management | GS-9, GS-11, GS-12 | View Details → | |
| GS-0301 | Miscellaneous Administration and Program | GS-7, GS-9, GS-11 | View Details → | |
| GS-0340 | Program Management | GS-11, GS-12, GS-13 | View Details → | |
| GS-0080 | Security Administration | GS-7, GS-9, GS-11 | View Details → | |
| GS-0346 | Logistics Management | GS-7, GS-9, GS-11 | View Details → | |
| GS-1550 | Computer Science | GS-9, GS-11, GS-12 | View Details → | |
| GS-1811 | Criminal Investigator | GS-7, GS-9, GS-11, GS-12 | View Details → | |
| GS-0343 | Management and Program Analyst | GS-9, GS-11, GS-12 | View Details → | |
| GS-0201 | Human Resources Management | GS-7, GS-9, GS-11 | View Details → |
Federal resumes follow different rules. We know them.
Federal hiring uses keyword-matching and structured experience. BMR builds federal-format resumes (USAJobs-ready) with the right keywords, hours/week, and supervisor info — for any GS series above.
Free · No credit card · Federal + civilian resume formats included
Want to Change Careers Entirely?
Not everyone wants to stay in a related field. These career paths leverage your transferable skills — leadership, risk management, logistics, project planning — in completely different industries.
Financial Examiner
$90,400
Banking and Finance Regulation(O*NET: 13-2061.00)BLS OEWS May 202421% (Much faster than average)
Detecting anomalies and patterns across disparate source dataStructured analytic tradecraft and source vettingBuilding a defensible finding from incomplete informationWriting decision-grade reports for senior decision-makers
The same analytic discipline that spots a threat pattern in fragmented reporting spots fraud and risk in financial records. Examiners live on anomaly detection and documented findings.
How to get there: A bachelor's in accounting, finance, or economics is the standard requirement. On-the-job training under a senior examiner builds the regulatory specialty; the cleared, analytic background transfers strongly.
Detective and Criminal Investigator
$93,580
Federal and Law Enforcement Investigations(O*NET: 33-3021.00)BLS OEWS May 20240% (Little or no change)
All-source collection and synthesis into a single assessmentSource evaluation and corroborationTS/SCI-level handling of sensitive informationProducing factual reports that withstand scrutiny
All-source intelligence work is investigation by another name: pull from every source, corroborate, and build a case. Federal investigative agencies actively recruit cleared 0231 backgrounds.
How to get there: Federal investigator roles usually require a bachelor's degree and a background investigation; a TS/SCI clearance is a major advantage. Some agencies run their own academy after hire.
Epidemiologist
$83,980
Public Health(O*NET: 19-1041.00)BLS OEWS May 202419% (Much faster than average)
Pattern and anomaly detection across large, messy datasetsHypothesis testing and structured analytic methodologySynthesizing multiple data streams into a single assessmentBriefing findings to decision-makers under time pressure
Tracking how a disease spreads is the same pattern-and-network analysis a 0231 runs on a threat. Epidemiology is all-source analysis applied to public health.
How to get there: A master's in public health (MPH) with an epidemiology concentration is the standard entry credential. The analytic methodology overlaps heavily, but the degree is the gate.
News Analyst, Reporter, and Journalist
$60,280
Media(O*NET: 27-3023.00)BLS OEWS May 2024-3% (Decline)
Synthesizing multiple sources into a clear, accurate productSource vetting and corroboration before publishingWriting tight, decision-grade summaries on deadlineDistinguishing verified fact from unconfirmed reporting
Producing an intelligence summary and producing a news report use the same skill: gather from many sources, verify, and write it clearly under a deadline. Investigative and national-security journalism value that rigor.
How to get there: A bachelor's in journalism, communications, or political science helps. Many enter through freelancing, a portfolio, or a junior reporting role; the writing and source-vetting transfer directly.
Claims Adjuster, Examiner, and Investigator
$76,790
Insurance(O*NET: 13-1031.00)BLS OEWS May 2024-3% (Decline)
Investigating a claim by collecting and corroborating sourcesWeighing evidence against a standard to reach a judgmentDetecting inconsistencies that signal fraudDocumenting a defensible conclusion
Investigating an insurance claim, vetting the story, spotting fraud signals, and writing it up is investigative tradecraft on a civilian problem set. The analytic and reporting skills carry over directly.
How to get there: Most insurers train on the job and license in-state (40-90 hours of coursework plus an exam). Special-investigation-unit roles favor candidates with an investigative or analytic background.
Political Scientist
$139,380
Policy Research and Think Tanks(O*NET: 19-3094.00)BLS OEWS May 20243% (As fast as average)
Foreign and regional threat assessmentAnalyzing political and military developments for decision-makersStructured research and source evaluationWriting analytic products that drive policy decisions
Assessing a foreign actor's intentions and capabilities is exactly what a 0231 does on a target and what a political scientist does for a think tank or government research office. The regional-analysis skill is the same.
How to get there: A master's or PhD in political science or international relations is the standard requirement. The applied regional-analysis experience is a strong differentiator once the degree is in hand.
Pivoting industries? You don't need to start from scratch.
The skills that made you a good Marine, Sailor, Airman, or Soldier transfer further than you think. BMR rewrites your bullets for any of the pivot careers above — without making you sound like you've never done the work.
Free · No credit card · Try unlimited career angles
Skills Translation Guide
If you're applying to intelligence community contractors, defense firms, or federal analyst positions, your terminology carries over — recruiters know what all-source intelligence production means. This section is for 0231s targeting careers outside the intelligence world: corporate analytics, business consulting, data science, or any role where the hiring manager doesn't know what an IPB is.
Resume Bullet Examples
Before (Military)
Conducted all-source intelligence analysis fusing GEOINT, SIGINT, HUMINT, and OSINT to produce threat assessments for MEF operational planning
After (Civilian)
Synthesized data from multiple internal and external sources to produce comprehensive analytical reports, directly informing executive-level strategic planning and resource allocation decisions
Before (Military)
Led the IPB process for a MEU deployment, analyzing terrain, weather, civil considerations, and threat capabilities to develop 3 courses of action for the commanding officer
After (Civilian)
Led comprehensive market and competitive analysis for 3 strategic initiatives, evaluating environmental factors, competitor capabilities, and organizational strengths to develop actionable recommendations for senior leadership
Before (Military)
Managed 150+ active collection requirements across 4 intelligence disciplines, prioritizing assets and tracking fulfillment rates for the battalion intelligence section
After (Civilian)
Managed a portfolio of 150+ active data requirements across 4 business units, prioritizing resource allocation, tracking fulfillment metrics, and reporting status to program leadership with 95% on-time delivery
Before (Military)
Produced 40+ IIRs and daily INTSUMs disseminated across the intelligence community, maintaining DIA quality standards
After (Civilian)
Authored 40+ analytical reports and daily executive summaries distributed to multiple stakeholders across the organization, maintaining rigorous quality standards with 98% first-submission acceptance rate
Before (Military)
Delivered daily intelligence briefings to the battalion commander and staff, covering threat assessment, terrain analysis, and recommended courses of action
After (Civilian)
Delivered daily analytical briefings to C-suite leadership, presenting data-driven assessments of organizational risks, market conditions, and recommended strategic actions
Before (Military)
Managed a 12-Marine intelligence section during a 7-month deployment, overseeing analytical production, personnel training, and 24/7 watch operations
After (Civilian)
Directed a 12-person analytical operations team for 7 months, managing workflow, quality assurance, staff development, and continuous operations to meet client deliverables across multiple concurrent projects
Before (Military)
Conducted GEOINT exploitation using SOCET GXP and RemoteView to analyze satellite imagery, identifying changes in adversary force disposition and infrastructure development
After (Civilian)
Conducted geospatial data analysis using specialized software tools to identify trends, changes, and anomalies in spatial datasets, producing visual products and written assessments for organizational decision-making
Before (Military)
Developed target nominations and target intelligence packages for 25+ objectives, coordinating with operations, fires, and collection management
After (Civilian)
Developed strategic action plans for 25+ organizational priorities, coordinating with operations, resource allocation, and data collection teams to ensure aligned execution and measurable outcomes
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Certifications by Career Path
Which certifications you need depends on where you're headed. Find your target career path below.
Cybersecurity
Security+ (CompTIA)
RecommendedCompTIA
Cost: $400 - $600Time: 2-3 months studyGI Bill Eligible
DoD 8570 baseline certification for IAT Level II. Required for many government IT and cyber positions. Some 0231s earn this in service depending on billet.
CISSP
BeneficialISC2
Cost: $750 - $800 examTime: 3-6 months studyGI Bill Eligible
Gold standard for cybersecurity management. Requires 5 years experience (military intel work counts). Opens doors to senior security and threat intelligence roles.
CompTIA CySA+
RecommendedCompTIA
Cost: $400 - $500Time: 2-3 months studyGI Bill Eligible
Cybersecurity analyst certification — threat detection, analysis, and response. Natural progression for intelligence analysts moving to cyber threat intelligence roles.
AWS Cloud Practitioner
BeneficialAmazon Web Services
Cost: $100 - $300Time: 1-2 months studyGI Bill Eligible
Entry-level cloud certification. IC agencies and contractors increasingly use cloud-based intelligence platforms (AWS GovCloud). Demonstrates technical adaptability.
Data Analytics
Google Data Analytics Certificate
RecommendedGoogle / Coursera
Cost: $300 - $500Time: 3-6 monthsGI Bill Eligible
Entry-level data analytics credential covering SQL, Tableau, R, and analytical methodology. Strong bridge between intelligence analysis and civilian data analytics.
Tableau Desktop Specialist
RecommendedTableau / Salesforce
Cost: $100 - $250Time: 1-2 months study
Data visualization is a critical skill for translating intelligence analysis to civilian analytics. Demonstrates technical tool proficiency to civilian employers.
Certified Analytics Professional (CAP)
BeneficialINFORMS
Cost: $400 - $600Time: 3-6 months study
For transitioning to operations research and advanced analytics. Demonstrates analytical methodology competency beyond domain-specific intelligence analysis.
GIS & Geospatial
GISP (GIS Professional)
BeneficialGIS Certification Institute
Cost: $250 - $400Time: Portfolio-based
For 0231s with GEOINT experience targeting geospatial careers. Demonstrates GIS competency to civilian employers including NGA contractors and commercial satellite firms.
Project Management
Project Management Professional (PMP)
BeneficialPMI
Cost: $400 - $555Time: 3-6 months studyGI Bill Eligible
Gold standard for project management. Intelligence production and collection management hours count toward experience requirements. Valued across all industries.
Security Management
Certified Protection Professional (CPP)
BeneficialASIS International
Cost: $400 - $600Time: 3-6 months study
For 0231s targeting security management. Intelligence analysis and threat assessment experience covers many exam domains.
Got a cert? Don't bury it. List it the right way.
The wrong placement can sink an otherwise strong application. BMR knows where each cert ranks, what to call it, and how to frame it for ATS keyword matching and hiring manager attention.
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Transition Resources
For Staying in Intelligence & Analysis
SkillBridge Programs: Major intelligence contractors (Booz Allen Hamilton, CACI, Leidos, SAIC) participate in DOD SkillBridge. Check the SkillBridge database for cleared analyst positions. These fill fast — apply early.
Intelligence Community Careers: Apply through IntelligenceCareers.gov for positions across CIA, NSA, DIA, NGA, and NRO. Start 6-9 months before your EAS. DIA and NGA in particular hire large numbers of all-source and GEOINT analysts.
Professional Development: The Intelligence and National Security Alliance (INSA) and AFCEA International offer networking events and conferences where hiring happens. The Association of Former Intelligence Officers (AFIO) connects transitioning intel professionals with mentors.
For Careers Outside Intelligence
Data Analytics & Business Intelligence: Your all-source methodology is data analytics performed in a classified environment. Consider certifications in Tableau, Power BI, SQL, or Python to translate your analytical skills into business analytics language. Many bootcamps accept GI Bill.
Project Management: The PMP certification (PMI) is the gold standard. Intelligence production management — tasking analysts, managing collection requirements, coordinating multi-source products — is project management. Cost: ~$555 (PMI member). GI Bill covers prep courses.
Cybersecurity: Information security analyst is one of the fastest-growing fields (33% projected growth). Security+ is the entry point. For 0231s with SIGINT or cyber experience, CISSP opens senior roles. BLS median: $120,360.
Federal Employment (USAJobs): Create your USAJobs profile immediately. Beyond IC agencies, check DHS, Treasury, DOE, and every inspector general office. Federal resumes are 2 pages max. Build yours here.
Veteran Networking: American Corporate Partners (ACP) provides free mentorship from corporate executives. Invaluable for breaking into non-intelligence careers where you need industry connections.
Clearance Leverage: TS/SCI saves employers $5,000-15,000+ and months of investigation time. ClearanceJobs.com lists positions requiring active clearances. Don't let yours lapse.
Education Benefits: GI Bill covers degrees and certifications. For analytical careers, consider data science, cybersecurity, or MBA programs. Use the GI Bill Comparison Tool to verify program approval.
BMR Career Resources
Marine Infantry Resume Guide | Complete Military Resume Guide | Top Companies Hiring Veterans | Build Your Resume Free
Your 30 / 60 / 90-Day Transition Plan
Most veterans do this backwards — they wait until terminal leave to start, then panic. Here's the actual sequence that works.
1Days 0–30
Set the foundation
- Pull your DD-214 (request from Milconnect if separated)
- List your top 3 civilian roles AND top 3 GS series
- Build your tailored 0231 resume — BMR does it free
- Write 1 strong LinkedIn headline (not "veteran seeking opportunities")
- Pull together your evals/performance reports for accomplishments
2Days 30–60
Apply with intent
- Apply to 5–10 jobs/week — quality over quantity
- Tailor every resume to the job description (BMR auto-tailors)
- Connect with 5 people/week on LinkedIn (not a spray)
- Set up a USAJobs profile and a saved-search alert for your GS series
- Practice translating your military bullets out loud — explain to a civilian friend
3Days 60–90
Close the offer
- Track every application — date, status, contact, notes
- Follow up 7–10 days after each application
- Prep for behavioral interviews using the STAR method
- Negotiate salary — don't take the first offer (BLS median is your floor)
- Stay applying even after one offer — leverage = options
Print this. Tape it to your monitor. Veterans who treat the transition like a 90-day op get hired faster than the ones who treat it like an emergency.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the median salary for intelligence analysts?
According to BLS May 2024 data, intelligence analysts earn a median annual wage of $99,710 (O*NET 33-3021.06). Information security analysts earn $120,360 median. Salaries vary significantly by location — the DC metro area, where most intelligence positions are concentrated, typically offers higher compensation. Defense contractor positions for cleared analysts often pay above the BLS median.
How valuable is my TS/SCI clearance after separation?
Very valuable. An active TS/SCI saves employers the cost and time of a new investigation ($5,000-15,000+ and 6-18 months). Cleared positions typically offer 20-40% salary premiums over comparable uncleared roles. Your clearance remains active for up to 24 months after separation if not renewed. Start your job search well before it lapses — ClearanceJobs.com lists thousands of positions requiring active clearances.
What if I want to leave the intelligence field entirely?
Many 0231s transition into non-intelligence careers successfully. Your transferable skills — data analysis, critical thinking, written communication, presentation skills, and pattern recognition — are valued in business analytics, consulting, project management, and corporate strategy roles. The Career Change Paths section above covers specific non-intelligence careers with BLS salary data and entry paths.
Do I need a degree to work as a civilian intelligence analyst?
For federal GS-0132 positions at GS-7 and above, a bachelor's degree is generally required, though extensive specialized military experience can substitute under OPM qualification standards. Defense contractors vary — some require degrees, others accept equivalent military experience. For non-intelligence analytical roles (data analyst, business analyst), certifications and demonstrated skills sometimes outweigh formal education. Consider using GI Bill strategically.
What is the difference between 0231 and 0211 for civilian career prospects?
0231s are trained in all-source intelligence analysis — synthesizing GEOINT, SIGINT, HUMINT, and OSINT into analytical products. 0211s specialize in counterintelligence investigations and HUMINT operations. In the civilian market, 0231s have broader analytical career options (data analysis, business intelligence, research), while 0211s align more with investigation and security management roles. Both qualify for GS-0132 intelligence analyst positions and defense contractor roles.
How do I explain intelligence analysis experience in a non-intel job interview?
Focus on the methodology, not the content. Instead of 'I produced all-source intelligence products for the MEF G-2,' say 'I synthesized data from multiple sources to produce analytical assessments that informed senior leadership decisions, working under tight deadlines with incomplete information.' Instead of 'I managed collection requirements,' say 'I identified data gaps, tasked collection resources, and tracked fulfillment to ensure comprehensive analysis.' Quantify: number of products, team size, stakeholder count.
Which certifications should I get before separating?
Depends on your target career. For cybersecurity: Security+ is the minimum (DoD 8570 baseline). For data analytics: SQL, Python, Tableau, or Power BI certifications. For project management: start PMP prep — your intelligence production management experience counts toward the experience requirement. For federal employment: your military experience is the primary qualifier. Universal: keep First Aid/CPR current and build your LinkedIn profile.
How does Veterans' Preference work for intelligence positions?
Veterans' Preference gives 5 or 10 extra points on federal competitive service assessments. Many IC positions (CIA, NSA, DIA) are excepted service, where VP is a consideration factor rather than a point system. On USAJobs, always select the 'Veterans' filter and claim your preference. Your military intelligence experience and clearance are typically more important than preference points for intel positions. Build your federal resume at bestmilitaryresume.com.
Where are the best job markets for former intelligence specialists?
The DC metro area (Northern Virginia, Maryland) dominates, with the highest concentration of intelligence agencies, defense contractors, and cleared positions in the country. San Antonio (NSA Texas, DIA Joint Base San Antonio) is a growing hub. San Diego and Tampa (SOCOM) have strong markets. Augusta, GA (NSA Georgia/Army Cyber) is expanding. For non-intelligence careers, any major metro area works — analytical skills are universally valued.
Can I start job searching while still on active duty?
Yes — start 12 months before your EAS. At 180 days out, you may be eligible for DOD SkillBridge. For federal positions, apply 6-9 months early — hiring is slow. For defense contractors, 3-6 months is typical. Build your resume and LinkedIn profile 6 months out. Attend cleared job fairs — they happen regularly in DC metro, San Diego, and Tampa. Use terminal leave as your transition runway.
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2024. Career data from O*NET OnLine.
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