How to become an Intelligence Analyst
Intelligence analysts evaluate information from a variety of classified and unclassified sources. This information is often incomplete, contradictory and can vary widely in terms of reliability. Depending on their background and qualifications, an intelligence analyst may examine a diverse set of countries, issues (such as terrorism) and cultures. Intelligence analysts working for the Department of Defence specialise in a number of areas depending on their training, qualifications and agency employment.
Personal requirements for an Intelligence Analyst
- Excellent research, analytical and problem-solving skills
- Excellent written and oral communication skills
- Ability to work individually and as part of a team
- Ability to cope with the demands of working in a high pressure, classified environment
- Australian citizenship
Education & Training for an Intelligence Analyst
To become an intelligence analyst you usually have to complete a degree in arts, science, commerce, information technology, engineering or a related field. To get into the degree courses you usually need to gain your Senior Secondary Certificate of Education. Universities have different prerequisites and some have flexible entry requirements or offer external study. Contact the institutions you are interested in for more information via www.gooduniversitiesguide.com.au.
Additional information
Entry into graduate programs with the Department of Defence requires applicants to undergo a security clearance. The level of clearance will depend on the graduate program. Visit their website for further information.
Duties & Tasks of an Intelligence Analyst
Intelligence analysts:
- Collect and analyse various sources of intelligence to determine trends and make assessments
- Prepare intelligence reports and briefs to inform senior government officials
- Translate foreign language material
- Communicate and cooperate closely with both military and civilian organisations.
Tasks
- Reviewing existing policies and legislation to identify anomalies and out-of-date provisions
- Ascertaining the accuracy of data collected and reliability of sources
- Compiling and disseminating intelligence information using briefings, maps, charts, reports and other methods
- Formulating and analysing policy options, preparing briefing papers and recommendations for policy changes, and advising on preferred options
- Determining organisational and client intelligence requirements
- Conducting threat and risk assessments and developing responses
- Organising, collecting, collating and analysing data, and developing intelligence information such as electronic surveillance
- Assessing impacts, financial implications, interactions with other programs and political and administrative feasibility of policies
- Liaising and consulting with program administrators and other interested parties to identify policy needs
- Researching social, economic and industrial trends, and client expectations of programs and services provided
Employment Opportunities for an Intelligence Analyst
Graduate positions with the Department of Defence are based in Canberra, with limited positions also available in Bendigo, Victoria. Recruitment is conducted Australia-wide with applications opening in February each year. Positions may also be available with other agencies, including the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) and the Australian Secret Intelligence Service (ASIS). Other opportunities include employment as an Army Intelligence Analyst with the Australian Defence Force to provide intelligence and tactical support to military commanders.
Specializations
Australian Signals Directorate (ASD) Intelligence Analyst
An Australian Signals Directorate (ASD) intelligence analyst undertakes sophisticated analysis producing vital intelligence and security information for the Australian Government, performing activities such as analysis of foreign signals, intelligence reporting, communications analysis, foreign language translation, or solving cryptological problems using advanced mathematical concepts.
Defence Intelligence Organisation (DIO) Intelligence Analyst
A Defence Intelligence Organisation (DIO) intelligence analyst provides strategic intelligence assessments to senior members of government, including the Defence Minister, as well as government policy makers and senior Defence staff. This work covers critical issues including support to military operations, the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, terrorism, regional security, foreign military capabilities and weapons systems, cyber threats and defence-related technologies.
Australian Geospatial-Intelligence Organisation (AGO) Intelligence Analyst
An Australian Geospatial-Intelligence Organisation (AGO) intelligence analyst examines information derived from imagery collected by a range of sensors and platforms, including satellites and aircraft. Technical intelligence analysts use specialist skills to conduct detailed analysis of sensor information or the development of exploitation and portrayal tools and services.
Intelligence Analyst
Intelligence analysts evaluate information from a variety of classified and unclassified sources. This information is often incomplete, contradictory and can vary widely in terms of reliability. Depending on their background and qualifications, an intelligence analyst may examine a diverse set of countries, issues (such as terrorism) and cultures.Intelligence analysts working for the Department of Defence specialise in a number of areas depending on their training, qualifications and agency employment.
Average age
38 years
Future Growth
Very strong
Gender Share
62% female
Average full-time
41 hours
Weekly Pay
$1,821
Skill level rating
Very high skill
Unemployment
Lower unemployment
Full-Time Share
80% Full-Time
Employment Size
29,500 workers
Employment by state
ACT: 31.1%
NSW: 20.5%
NT: 1.5%
QLD: 13.5%
SA: 5.5%
TAS: 2.0%
VIC: 18.6%
WA: 7.4%
Age brackets
15-19: 0.1%
20-24: 3.8%
25-34: 34.3%
35-44: 29%
45-54: 20.1%
55-59: 7.2%
60-64: 3.7%
65 and Over: 1.9%
Education level
Advanced Diploma/Diploma: 6.4%
Bachelor degree: 43.1%
Below Year 10: 0%
Certificate III/IV: 3.8%
Post Graduate/Graduate Diploma or Graduate Certificate: 39%
Year 10 and below: 0.8%
Year 11: 0.6%
Year 12: 6.3%
Years 11 & 10: 0%
