Intelligence Analysts
Intelligence analysts gather and examine information from law enforcement databases, surveillance systems, and other sources to identify patterns and threats. They work for federal, state, and local government agencies, analyzing data to prevent organized crime and terrorism. The role requires synthesizing information from multiple sources into actionable intelligence.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against intelligence analysts and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
An intelligence analyst might spend morning hours reviewing surveillance reports and database entries relevant to an ongoing investigation. Afternoons often involve meeting with law enforcement colleagues to discuss findings and coordinate on cases. Analysts use geographic information systems and other analytical tools to map patterns, prepare written assessments, and present briefings to supervisors and field agents based on their analysis.
Who this work suits
Holland code ICE. Investigative work is figuring things out: analysis, research, problem-solving. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You likely enjoy investigative work and thrive with structured processes and detailed procedures. You're comfortable with data systems and appreciate clear, organized workflows. People who do well here tend to be methodical, detail-oriented, and interested in solving complex problems within established frameworks.
What it takes
Preparation: Considerable preparation (most need a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold a bachelor’s degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Openings right now
- SENIOR INTELLIGENCE ANALYST · Defense Intelligence Agency · Pearl Harbor Naval Base, Oahu, Hawaii · $131310–$170708
- Business Intelligence Analyst (Contractor) · Doximity · Remote · Remote
- CRIMINAL INTELLIGENCE ANALYST · U.S. Marine Corps · Beaufort, South Carolina · $50460–$80243
- Intelligence Research Specialist (Cyber Threat Analyst) · Office of the Secretary of Health and Human Services · Washington, District of Columbia · $143913–$187093
- Intelligence Operations Specialist (Imagery Analyst) · Office of Intelligence and Analysis · Washington, District of Columbia · $102415–$158322
- INTELLIGENCE ANALYST (TARGETING) · Department of the Air Force Headquarters · Offutt AFB, Nebraska · $90825–$118204
- Intelligence Specialist (General Military Intelligence Analyst) · U.S. Army Intelligence and Security Command · Lackland AFB, Texas · $108001–$140403
- Intelligence Specialist (GMI Analyst) · U.S. Army Intelligence and Security Command · Fort Meade, Maryland · $143913–$187093
Openings are read from employers’ own career pages and public job boards and change daily. Search all openings (free account) to filter by distance, pay and how well you qualify.
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $114,230 | $160,760 | $170,810 | 2,980 |
| Maryland | $93,230 | $126,730 | $166,230 | 1,010 |
| California | $99,270 | $124,840 | $136,020 | 12,610 |
| Delaware | $71,670 | $122,050 | $149,990 | 140 |
| New Jersey | $91,360 | $116,300 | $134,000 | 3,080 |
| Washington | $96,540 | $115,790 | $126,170 | 1,850 |
| Alaska | $92,110 | $114,940 | $168,790 | 140 |
| Hawaii | $106,870 | $113,940 | $140,750 | 440 |
| Virginia | $79,770 | $112,760 | $160,760 | 3,180 |
| Massachusetts | $92,020 | $110,150 | $146,230 | 1,300 |
| Oregon | $94,700 | $107,450 | $127,860 | 520 |
| Vermont | $84,430 | $106,330 | $111,530 | 190 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Social Media Intelligence Analyst (SMIA) — McAfee Institute
- Criminal Intelligence Certified Analyst (CICA) — International Association of Law Enforcement Intelligence Analysts
- Certified Business Intelligence Professional - Business Core (CBIP) — The Data Warehouse Institute
- Certified Law Enforcement Analysts (CLEA) — International Association of Crime Analysts
- Intelligence Planner Certification Program (IP-CP) — Defense Intelligence Agency PMO
- Certified Social Media Intelligence Expert (CSMIE) — McAfee Institute
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against intelligence analysts and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 33-3021.06 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.