Whether you collect information for a top secret mission or monitor the activities of terrorists, a career as a Central Intelligence Agency agent is definitely for an adventurous person. However, don't rely on spy movies to learn more about this career. CIA agents work in a variety of positions that serve different needs. A strong objective on your resume that focuses on your qualifications for the job can help you land an interview with the CIA.
Education and Training
Although educational requirements are based on the specific position, most CIA agents have at least a high school degree or equivalent. However, a bachelor's degree or higher is preferred. If you are fresh out of school and want to emphasize education in your job objective, you might say, "A professional seeking a CIA agent position so that I can utilize my criminal justice degree to assist in the investigation of security threats." If you don't have a degree, focus on any training that matches the position. For example, emphasize that you were involved in a work-study program overseas that allowed you to learn foreign languages and gain insights into foreign cultures.
Work Experience
If you worked in a related field, such as in military intelligence, security or law enforcement, this experience can help you stand apart from other applicants. An objective should let the employer know that you are the right applicant for the position. Your objective might say, "Experienced law enforcement professional with expertise in undercover operations seeks a position as a Collection Management Officer gathering human intelligence."
Professional Skills
According to an article in "U.S. News and World Report," your resume objective should serve as a branding statement. If you include your skills in your objective, focus on what makes you unique from other candidates. For example, you can write, "Seeking a CIA agent position that will utilize my in-depth analytical and communication experience and skills to correspond with policy makers about international security issues." If there is a particular reason why you want to be a CIA agent, you can briefly add this information to your statement by saying, "A professional with a background in the military fighting terrorists overseas seeking a position as a CIA agent gathering intelligence on terrorist operations."
Work Environment
CIA agents work in a variety of areas, including at CIA headquarters in Langley, Va. and U.S. embassies overseas. Based on the position, they also tend to travel a lot overseas. If you want to mention your preferred work environment in your objective, focus on how your background can be an asset for the position. For example, if you have experience working in air military special operations, provide details in your objective. You can write, "A professional with five years of military experience in air combat commands seeking a position as an Operations Officer working overseas."
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Writer Bio
Dachell McSween has contributed to the "New York Daily News" and "Black Enterprise Magazine." She also writes for various online publications. McSween received a B.A. in journalism from Pace University and an M.S. in publishing from New York University.