View Full Version : So you want to be an FBI Intel Analyst?
Here are some pointers for applying to the FBI Intelligence Analyst position:
1) First thing, print out that vacancy announcement you're applying to. It's not persistent and will disappear when the vacancy closes, and key things contained therein are: Staffing Unit Point of Contact, whether it's for a HQ or field office (or a particular field office), whether any benefits accrue to the selectee (hiring bonus, relocation, etc.).
2) Take your time when you fill out the application. If you've been applying for a lot of positions, it can get frustrating to fill out similar questions over and over again, but it's important to answer the questions you are provided. If you are clear in your qualifications with regard to a particular job, your skill set may cause your application to pop to the surface when someone is looking for those skills. If they're not in the application, you may get passed over.
3) Don't overstate your qualifications. I've seen applicants try to game the system by indicating qualifications that they didn't ultimately have by checking the boxes. When an application like that makes it through the computer screening, the subterfuge is rapidly identified and the candidate can even be eliminated from further consideration.
4) Know your background. Look around this board and the qualifications for FBI positions. If you've had problems in the past, don't think that it won't get discovered when your background investigation is conducted.
5) When filling out the SF-86, be as complete as humanly possible. In fact, when you start the application process, get the SF-86 and get started on tracking down those long-lost college roommates, those old addresses, etc. You will need them and failure to provide them will greatly slow down your background investigation process. If the application asks for all arrests and traffic tickets, think long and hard about your past and try to provide as accurate information as possible. There is a thing called the computer...odds are, you're using one right now. They store all kinds of things, including arrests, convictions, etc.
6) Be patient. Bureaucracy is our middle name. Believe me, the folks already working at the Bureau would love to have you on-board and working tomorrow if we could. Heck, it would mean a reduction in the workload (I hope), which is very good. But there are steps that have to be completed very meticulously. The process will move in fits and starts - confusing status information one moment, demands for a dozen different tests in two weeks the next. I don't know what's going to happen next, so why should you?
7) The process is always changing. The hiring process for IAs has changed 2-3 times over the past couple of years. Two new changes are coming soon - testing and entry on duty at Quantico. Other internal processes have realigned in recent months as well. Change creates friction and friction slows things down. Sorry, but, over the long haul, these changes should speed things up.
8) Not everyone in the Bureau has bought into the whole transformation thing. There are a few dinosaurs out there, both agent and support, who don't get the whole Intelligence Program. When you get to your first office, you'll probably get asked to do some things that you don't feel fit into your role. Grit your teeth, do what's asked of you, but make sure your IA Advisory Board representative knows you're having problems with tasks that don't belong in your in-basket. Griping to your colleagues, while a good stress reliever, won't fix the problem.
More to follow, as it comes to me...
BuMan,
Thank you so much for the information!!!!!!
Ricki223,
I haven't received that e-mail yet but I also haven't gotten a call. That doesn't make sense to me for them to just list you as best qualified and then to never call you in for an interview. The website says that "best qualified" are forwarded to the selecting officials. Maybe you should try to contact someone and see what is going on. Maybe there has been some kinda mistake.
OrangeAlum2003
08-09-2005, 18:21
BuMan,
I'm not sure if this was already asked, but when did you apply. I've been in the pipeline since June 13, 2005 (interview day).
I applied in the beginning of March and interviewed in the middle of July.
electra1978
08-10-2005, 14:09
Here are some pointers for applying to the FBI Intelligence Analyst position:
1) First thing, print out that vacancy announcement you're applying to. It's not persistent and will disappear when the vacancy closes, and key things contained therein are: Staffing Unit Point of Contact, whether it's for a HQ or field office (or a particular field office), whether any benefits accrue to the selectee (hiring bonus, relocation, etc.).
2) Take your time when you fill out the application. If you've been applying for a lot of positions, it can get frustrating to fill out similar questions over and over again, but it's important to answer the questions you are provided. If you are clear in your qualifications with regard to a particular job, your skill set may cause your application to pop to the surface when someone is looking for those skills. If they're not in the application, you may get passed over.
3) Don't overstate your qualifications. I've seen applicants try to game the system by indicating qualifications that they didn't ultimately have by checking the boxes. When an application like that makes it through the computer screening, the subterfuge is rapidly identified and the candidate can even be eliminated from further consideration.
4) Know your background. Look around this board and the qualifications for FBI positions. If you've had problems in the past, don't think that it won't get discovered when your background investigation is conducted.
5) When filling out the SF-86, be as complete as humanly possible. In fact, when you start the application process, get the SF-86 and get started on tracking down those long-lost college roommates, those old addresses, etc. You will need them and failure to provide them will greatly slow down your background investigation process. If the application asks for all arrests and traffic tickets, think long and hard about your past and try to provide as accurate information as possible. There is a thing called the computer...odds are, you're using one right now. They store all kinds of things, including arrests, convictions, etc.
6) Be patient. Bureaucracy is our middle name. Believe me, the folks already working at the Bureau would love to have you on-board and working tomorrow if we could. Heck, it would mean a reduction in the workload (I hope), which is very good. But there are steps that have to be completed very meticulously. The process will move in fits and starts - confusing status information one moment, demands for a dozen different tests in two weeks the next. I don't know what's going to happen next, so why should you?
7) The process is always changing. The hiring process for IAs has changed 2-3 times over the past couple of years. Two new changes are coming soon - testing and entry on duty at Quantico. Other internal processes have realigned in recent months as well. Change creates friction and friction slows things down. Sorry, but, over the long haul, these changes should speed things up.
8) Not everyone in the Bureau has bought into the whole transformation thing. There are a few dinosaurs out there, both agent and support, who don't get the whole Intelligence Program. When you get to your first office, you'll probably get asked to do some things that you don't feel fit into your role. Grit your teeth, do what's asked of you, but make sure your IA Advisory Board representative knows you're having problems with tasks that don't belong in your in-basket. Griping to your colleagues, while a good stress reliever, won't fix the problem.
More to follow, as it comes to me...
Thanks so much! I'm sure it's just as frustrating for those on the inside who want qualified people onboard asap as it is for us trying to get in. I still have faith in the process. If I didn't I would have given up long ago.
Point #5 was particularly interesting. After reading posts on filling out the SF-86 as much as thoroughly as possible, I decided to include everything pretty much since I was born. It took a lot more time and required contacting a lot more people, but I feel it'll be worth it... hopefully
My panel reiterated Point #8. It seems they've also had their share of battles with those who don't like change and don't see the point of a DI. Thankfully, it seems the Bureau is weeding them out. Either get with the program or leave...
I wonder if this is a hint from BuMan. Hmmmmmmmm...........
I am a little confused about the testing issue though. I thought I understood you to say that a test would come before the application. For example, the Naval Officer Apptitude Test has to be taken before the application can be filled out. However, it seems that you mean that this test is to be taken after IA training.
I know you must be sick of answering questions about this famous TEST.
OhioLaw and Electra1978,
I want to be informed the instant that you get your CO.
I wonder if this is a hint from BuMan. Hmmmmmmmm...........
I am a little confused about the testing issue though. I thought I understood you to say that a test would come before the application. For example, the Naval Officer Apptitude Test has to be taken before the application can be filled out. However, it seems that you mean that this test is to be taken after IA training.
No the testing will be pre-hire. Two separate tests - one for all DI hires (SSG, Langauage Analysts and IAs) on common core competencies, then a separate test for IAs on their core competencies. You've got to pass through both of those to move forward in the process. From what I've heard, it could either be the step after initial application or after interview. It would make sense to have it before interview and prior to any of the other background related matters, but we don't always make sense. After you get through the process, you end up reporting to Quantico, where you will be tested on content in the cohort training (ACES).
ricki223
08-10-2005, 17:47
BuMan,
Thank you so much for the information!!!!!!
Ricki223,
I haven't received that e-mail yet but I also haven't gotten a call. That doesn't make sense to me for them to just list you as best qualified and then to never call you in for an interview. The website says that "best qualified" are forwarded to the selecting officials. Maybe you should try to contact someone and see what is going on. Maybe there has been some kinda mistake.
The e-mail was a response to a question I had about the hiring status. My status does still show up as best qualified as I check it twice a day. I may try to contact someone at HQ. My FO isn't really sure of whats going on. I just moved and they're the only FO in my area. If you hear any other news please share. Here is what the reply said:
Greetings,
Please continue to check your vacancy status; however, at this time, you are no longer being considered for this vacancy announcement. Keep in mind that FBI management reserves the right to broaden the area of consideration at some time in the future and if you meet the criteria at the time, based on your current application, you could receive further consideration. Continue to view www.FBIjobs.com for future job opportunities.
Thanks for your interest in the FBI.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sent: Friday, August 05, 2005 4:18 PM
To: Postings
Subject: IA hiring status
I have a question concerning the hiring of intelligence analysts. Currently my status reads best qualified on your online system. However I have heard that field offices were suppose to finish interviewing candidates by July 29. I was wondering if this means that I am no longer being considered for the position since I never recieved a phone call for an interview. I understand that you are extremely busy and so I would also like to thank you taking the time to read my email.
TampaBarb
08-10-2005, 18:15
Rikki, I got the same email you got...but my status was "referred to selecting official" for GS 9, so I guess I made it over the first hurdle and not the second...trying not to be completely miserable about it (it's not working). :(
Buman, do you think that it is true that at some point they might call people in my position in? I do not have a military background and really didn't have the critical skills needed; I am a former journalist working at a large law firm now, and I just got my M.S. in Forensic DNA/Serology. I was encouraged by the fact that IAs were to be used to interview people as that is one of my strengths. I'm hoping that at some point they will broaden the area of focus.
Thanks and best of luck to the rest of you! You all sound amazing, I bet you'll do great!
I was encouraged by the fact that IAs were to be used to interview people as that is one of my strengths.
My buddy who is an FBI SA, said the way the things are right now in the Bu, interviewing is the sole prerogative of the SA's. An IA sits in the background and does the "analysis" work after the SA has done his interviewing and field data collection..... or something like that.
Ofcourse, everything can and does change, and I hope so does FBI.
Jedburgh II
08-10-2005, 18:45
I was encouraged by the fact that IAs were to be used to interview people as that is one of my strengths.
Interviewing as a journalist and law enforcement/intelligence interview and interrogation are two completely different animals. Of course, the Bureau is not going to want anyone who is not specifically trained in the requisite skills to conduct "interviews" of any witness, suspect, detainee, prisoner, etc. At least, I hope they wouldn't - a poorly conducted interview can cause a great deal of damage to the mission (dependent upon the status of the individual under the question and the current status of the operation). Not to mention potential legal ramifications of both the "interview" itself and the use in court of the information gained.
TampaBarb
08-10-2005, 19:36
Interviewing as a journalist and law enforcement/intelligence interview and interrogation are two completely different animals. Of course, the Bureau is not going to want anyone who is not specifically trained in the requisite skills to conduct "interviews" of any witness, suspect, detainee, prisoner, etc. At least, I hope they wouldn't - a poorly conducted interview can cause a great deal of damage to the mission (dependent upon the status of the individual under the question and the current status of the operation). Not to mention potential legal ramifications of both the "interview" itself and the use in court of the information gained.
I wasn't saying that the two interviews are equal, and a good journalistic interview is all about listening to the subject, so that was really my point. It is my understanding that the FBI has hired many people from nontraditional backgrounds for these positions, and considering everyone is going to be trained, I don't think it would have been so outrageous to hire me or at least call me for an interview.
Sorry to be so defensive, I'm feeling a little raw about this -- several family members work for the FBI -- so I guess your post struck a nerve.
ricki223
08-10-2005, 22:08
I wasn't saying that the two interviews are equal, and a good journalistic interview is all about listening to the subject, so that was really my point. It is my understanding that the FBI has hired many people from nontraditional backgrounds for these positions, and considering everyone is going to be trained, I don't think it would have been so outrageous to hire me or at least call me for an interview.
Sorry to be so defensive, I'm feeling a little raw about this -- several family members work for the FBI -- so I guess your post struck a nerve.
I would think that your background would at least be very helpful if you were interested in that aspect of being an IA. At least you'd have the foundation of basic interviewing techniques that would be beneficial while they train you. Hopefully we can both get a call in the future. My background is in sports medicine with a masters in educational administration. Not sure how beneficial that would be but I've heard of at least one individual with that background getting on board. Anyway good luck to you.
Another Key Point:
If you are interested in getting in the FBI as an IA, I would suggest you get your name in the hiring pool as soon as possible. It's likely that the hiring pace for IAs will not continue at the same rate in the near (or long-term) future.
I would think that your background would at least be very helpful if you were interested in that aspect of being an IA. At least you'd have the foundation of basic interviewing techniques that would be beneficial while they train you. Hopefully we can both get a call in the future. My background is in sports medicine with a masters in educational administration. Not sure how beneficial that would be but I've heard of at least one individual with that background getting on board. Anyway good luck to you.
On the website where they had the stories "Interested in being an Intelligence Analyst?" One thing that was always pointed out was that not to worry about your background because the FBI could use people from all professional and academic backgrounds. The FBI investigates many different types of cases. For example, Healthcare Fraud. People who have worked in the medical field for years may be better suited for performing intelligence on these types of cases. They can bring their basic knowledge to the table. A good foundation is important.
My personal opinion...... If you want a good apple, pick it from the tree not the barrel. Translation: Some of the best candidates are educated but inexperienced. It is hard to teach new tricks to experienced and highly qualified people because they come in with preconceived notions and thinking they are experts and they already know everything. Someone who is fresh and motivated is more easily taught.
I have been wrong millions of times in my life before so I maybe wrong this time.
Another Key Point:
If you are interested in getting in the FBI as an IA, I would suggest you get your name in the hiring pool as soon as possible. It's likely that the hiring pace for IAs will not continue at the same rate in the near (or long-term) future.
And for those of us who are in the pipeline already (4 mos.--3 Ps done and passed, no problems with field investigation, presently under final review at HQ), may we indeed expect a big push to get a lot of IAs on board next month? Thanks!
On the website where they had the stories "Interested in being an Intelligence Analyst?" One thing that was always pointed out was that not to worry about your background because the FBI could use people from all professional and academic backgrounds. The FBI investigates many different types of cases. For example, Healthcare Fraud. People who have worked in the medical field for years may be better suited for performing intelligence on these types of cases. They can bring their basic knowledge to the table. A good foundation is important.
My personal opinion...... If you want a good apple, pick it from the tree not the barrel. Translation: Some of the best candidates are educated but inexperienced. It is hard to teach new tricks to experienced and highly qualified people because they come in with preconceived notions and thinking they are experts and they already know everything. Someone who is fresh and motivated is more easily taught.
I have been wrong millions of times in my life before so I maybe wrong this time.
Touche.
K9 Police
08-11-2005, 19:53
Another Key Point:
If you are interested in getting in the FBI as an IA, I would suggest you get your name in the hiring pool as soon as possible. It's likely that the hiring pace for IAs will not continue at the same rate in the near (or long-term) future.
I thought the process was closed at this point.
K9
On the website where they had the stories "Interested in being an Intelligence Analyst?" One thing that was always pointed out was that not to worry about your background because the FBI could use people from all professional and academic backgrounds. The FBI investigates many different types of cases. For example, Healthcare Fraud. People who have worked in the medical field for years may be better suited for performing intelligence on these types of cases. They can bring their basic knowledge to the table. A good foundation is important.
My personal opinion...... If you want a good apple, pick it from the tree not the barrel. Translation: Some of the best candidates are educated but inexperienced. It is hard to teach new tricks to experienced and highly qualified people because they come in with preconceived notions and thinking they are experts and they already know everything. Someone who is fresh and motivated is more easily taught.
I have been wrong millions of times in my life before so I maybe wrong this time.
That is a great post!
Thank you anwalt and OhioLaw.
Jedburgh II
08-11-2005, 22:48
Kristin, you are 100% correct regarding the value of candidates lacking intel experience but coming from a wide variety of backgrounds - in the context of entry-level intelligence analysts. No one expects entry-level IAs to have real-world operational intel experience; they will be trained, and, hopefully, benefit from a mentor on the intel side once they begin work. Every IA comes from somewhere - none were born as analysts. All of that greatly varied background within every agency and service in the community does come in useful in both the collection and analysis of intelligence. Sometimes extremely useful.
But the FBI is hiring from GS-7 up to GS-14 level. They don't have the time to grow all the experienced IAs they need within the Bureau. They have to actively seek out and recruit experienced people to fill positions from GS-11 on up. All the motivation, dedication, and good intentions in the world do not substitute for experience when filling an intel position of greater responsibility. And the marketplace for experienced IAs is very competitive right now - virtually all agencies are looking to hire experienced intelligence analysts. Not to mention contractors that are paying six figure salaries for year-long contracts in Iraq or Afghanistan.
This does not mean that all experience is good or even applicable experience. But although there are certainly fossils in any field, the intelligence field is particularly unforgiving of stagnation - those who don't keep pace with current developments in their chosen profession. "Preconceived notions" are death to the intelligence analyst - whether it relates to conduct on the job or professional development. In the world of operational intelligence, a mere facade of competence cannot be maintained. We always hope that there is no damage to people or the mission because of such an incompetent before being fired or relieved, or at a minimum, shuffled off into a corner where at least there will be no more damage caused (some people are difficult to fire outright).
We've seen quite a variety of backgrounds on this board and I don't know why the FBI selects some and doesn't select others. Or why, for those who applied for several different pay-grades, they were selected for one in particular. It may simply come down to the way in which an individual wrote out their narrative responses on the application.
Jedburgh II,
For many of us who lack intel. experience the timing of our applications can be a bad thing considering that the FBI is growing an Intelligence Program with Congress magnifying everything that they are doing along the way.
But it's like you said the narratives in the application could make it for someone inexperienced. Every experience of applying for a position of this magnitude can be a learning process for applicants.
I personally think that I would be a great candidate for IA and I can't imagine doing anything else in my life but I don't think that I expressed my greatest performance in the application. I have read over my responses and have revamped them as well as my resume so I will be ready for the next vacancy. I do not give up very easily.
TampaBarb
08-12-2005, 05:10
No one expects entry-level IAs to have real-world operational intel experience; they will be trained, and, hopefully, benefit from a mentor on the intel side once they begin work.
Yes and I applied for grades 7 and 9 (9 because I have a Master's degree, I'd be perfectly happy with 7)...I am still hoping to get in at some point and learn from all of you who have worked in the position for a long time.
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