Intelligence specialists collect, analyze, and organize data to support military operations. They evaluate information from various sources, develop intelligence missions, maintain databases, and work with communication systems. A college degree is not always required, but high clearance is necessary.
An intelligence specialist collects, analyzes and organizes data to support military operations. This is a job specific to the US Navy and Coast Guard, but other service branches and other military organizations have their own versions of this job title. Intelligence specialists often have to maintain high clearance as they deal with sensitive information. While it can be helpful if someone is interested in becoming an officer, in many cases a college degree is not required for this job.
As intelligence information from various sources arrives, the expert evaluates it. Some sample sources might include broadcasts, photographs, Internet communications, and reports from agents in the field. This data can be used to track a target, identify trends or gather general information about a region, organization or situation. An intelligence specialist might want information about what is happening in a country because troops are preparing to enter, for example. This data can also support ongoing treaty negotiations and other government activities.
The job may also involve developing intelligence missions. This might include planning surveillance flights, planting listening devices, and meeting with field agents to discuss intelligence gathering goals. The intelligence specialist can talk with other experts, field commanders, and interested parties to determine what type of information is needed and create a plan for acquiring it. The information received can be analyzed and used to create formal reports.
Database maintenance is also a task overseen by an intelligence specialist. This can include storing data in a stable environment, developing indexes to find information quickly, and working with information technology specialists on system updates and tools. These databases can be in centralized facilities or mobile intelligence units, each with their own unique security needs that must be considered. Periodic declassification of information may also occur after reviewing the data and determining what information needs to be kept confidential to protect national security.
Some intelligence specialists operate in the field. They can be found aboard ships or in mobile vans traveling with deployed teams of soldiers. Others work in intelligence facilities at home. It is necessary to work with a variety of communication systems to maintain contact with other members of the intelligence community, as well as with commanders and others who need access to important information. This can include confidential computer networks, radios, and undersea communications that allow an intelligence specialist to stay in touch at high speed.
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