Defense analysts work for the government, analyzing security policies and procedures at national and international levels. They need advanced degrees in quantitative analysis, computer science, or relevant work experience, and must have top secret government security clearance. Effective communication skills are also necessary.
A defense analyst works with policies and programs that pertain to national security and protection. Most often, defense analysts are employed by the federal or national government, but there are a variety of different branches within the government that may need to hire such an individual. With most of these types of positions, job seekers need to have a lot of military experience to qualify.
As a general rule, a defense analyst performs functions of a technical and analytical nature. Issues addressed in these types of assignments often include detailed analysis of topics or situations that directly deal with security policies and procedures at the national or international level. In the United States, some defense analysts work directly for branches of the military or Congress, but for the most part, they usually work for the Department of Defense.
People in defense analyst roles need to have a lot of experience in quantitative analysis, because these jobs tend to involve dealing with heavy loads of information that must be evaluated and catalogued. For most positions, a defense analyst must have an advanced degree in engineering, statistics, economics or physical sciences. People with advanced degrees in mathematics can sometimes qualify for these positions as well.
The ability to learn new concepts quickly is a desirable trait for defense analysts. For many jobs, this means that candidates need to be adept at computer programs. Having an undergraduate degree in computer science or extensive relevant work experience can also be helpful in finding a job as a defense analyst. It is also important for potential analysts to have the ability to work independently as they spend a lot of time working only on projects.
Defense analysts often deal with highly sensitive information. In most cases, this data is top secret in nature; therefore, people who hold these jobs are usually required to secure top secret government security clearance. This means that individuals holding these jobs must have clean criminal records and impeccable credentials.
To be an effective and successful defense analyst, candidates must be able to communicate well with others, both verbally and in writing. Both forms of communication are equally important in this type of work, as analysts may have to convey information to people all over the world. People in these positions also need to be good at compiling detailed reports in a short time, so that confidential information can be shared with others in a timely manner.
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