Covert Action Officer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of international security, the significance of a Covert Action Officer has never been more apparent.

As geopolitical dynamics continue to shift, the demand for skilled individuals adept at navigating, expanding, and securing our intelligence network grows.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a Covert Action Officer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker attempting to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager defining the ideal candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of covert operations,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Covert Action Officer job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Covert Action Officer Duties and Responsibilities

Covert Action Officers, also known as clandestine service officers or secret agents, work for intelligence agencies.

They are responsible for gathering and analyzing information about foreign entities that could affect the interests and security of their country.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Collecting and analyzing intelligence about foreign entities
• Conducting covert operations to gather information or disrupt activities of foreign entities that pose a threat to national security
• Creating and maintaining relationships with foreign sources of intelligence
• Disseminating intelligence and reports to superiors and policymakers
• Assessing the credibility of the information and the reliability of sources
• Conducting risk assessments and planning for contingencies
• Ensuring operational security and maintaining strict confidentiality
• Receiving and implementing training in areas such as foreign languages, espionage techniques, weapons handling, and emergency medical care
• Coordinating with other intelligence and law enforcement agencies as needed

 

Covert Action Officer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a skilled Covert Action Officer to join our intelligence team.

This professional will be responsible for developing and implementing covert operations to collect valuable information from various sources.

Covert Action Officer’s responsibilities include gathering and analyzing information, planning and carrying out covert operations, and working closely with other intelligence officers to ensure security.

The ideal candidate should be highly analytical, detail-oriented, and able to make quick decisions in high-pressure situations.

Ultimately, the Covert Action Officer’s role is to successfully carry out covert operations that align with the objectives of our agency while ensuring the highest level of security.

 

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement covert operations
• Gather and analyze information to identify potential threats
• Collaborate with other intelligence officers to plan and execute operations
• Ensure strict adherence to legal and ethical standards during operations
• Assess the risks associated with operations and make necessary adjustments
• Report findings to senior officials and suggest appropriate course of action
• Manage relationships with informants and agents
• Stay updated with the latest intelligence and industry trends

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a covert action officer or similar role
• Strong understanding of intelligence operations and procedures
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities
• Ability to make quick decisions in high-pressure situations
• High level of physical fitness
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and operate discreetly
• Bachelor’s degree in Criminology, International Relations, or relevant field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Training and development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Covert Action Officer
• Work Environment: This role involves both office work and field operations. Be prepared for a dynamic and unpredictable work environment.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Covert Operations.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: Salary is classified due to the sensitive nature of the job
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience, and any additional relevant information to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Covert Action Officer Do?

Covert Action Officers, also known as intelligence officers, work for intelligence agencies, such as the CIA in the United States.

Their work often involves operations that are secret or undercover.

These professionals are responsible for gathering and analyzing information about foreign governments, corporations, individuals, and other entities to assist in making policy decisions.

Covert Action Officers may use various methods to collect intelligence, such as communications interception, human intelligence collection, or through open-source intelligence.

They also plan and manage covert operations and undercover missions, which may include infiltrating foreign organizations, conducting surveillance, or orchestrating actions to influence events in favor of their home country’s interests.

In addition, Covert Action Officers may also be tasked with countering threats from terrorism, cyber threats, and other forms of foreign aggression.

Due to the nature of their work, they must maintain strict secrecy and adhere to ethical guidelines.

They often work in challenging environments and situations, facing potential physical and psychological risks.

Covert Action Officers require a high level of analytical ability, strong communication skills, and cultural and language fluency.

They must also have a deep understanding of global politics and international relations.

 

Covert Action Officer Qualifications and Skills

A Covert Action Officer needs to possess a variety of skills and qualifications that facilitate clandestine operations, including:

• Exceptional analytical and critical thinking skills to understand and assess complex security situations and devise effective action plans.
• Excellent communication skills for conveying information accurately and discreetly, and for liaising with various stakeholders across different platforms.
• Strong interpersonal skills to build networks of trust, handle sensitive situations delicately, and to work effectively as part of a team.
• In-depth knowledge of surveillance techniques, counterintelligence measures, and covert operation strategies.
• Proficiency in at least one foreign language to communicate effectively in diverse geographical locations.
• A high level of physical fitness and combat readiness to handle physically demanding situations, including self-defense and evasion techniques.
• Experience in handling a variety of technological tools and equipment used in covert operations, including surveillance and communication devices.
• Ability to work under extreme stress and pressure, making sound decisions in high-risk situations.
• Strong ethical judgement to act with integrity and legality in all operations, respecting human rights and international law.
• Willingness and ability to travel extensively and frequently, often to hostile environments.

 

Covert Action Officer Experience Requirements

Prior to becoming a Covert Action Officer, candidates typically gain experience in military, intelligence, law enforcement, or a related field.

This experience provides essential knowledge of tactical operations, threat assessment, and strategic planning.

Entry-level candidates typically possess a minimum of 2 to 3 years of experience, often gained through roles such as Intelligence Analyst, Military Officer, or Law Enforcement Officer.

Hands-on experience in these roles can provide a solid foundation in areas such as intelligence gathering, surveillance, counterterrorism, and counterintelligence.

Candidates with more than 5 years of experience often have a deeper understanding of the principles of covert operations, enabling them to execute complex intelligence operations.

These individuals may have held roles such as Senior Intelligence Analyst or Operations Officer, gaining significant experience in managing and leading covert operations.

Those with more than 10 years of experience are typically considered for senior leadership roles within the organization.

This level of experience often includes significant time spent in international postings, demonstrating the ability to operate effectively in diverse cultural and political environments.

It is also expected that these candidates have a proven track record of managing large teams and complex missions.

In all cases, proficiency in foreign languages, cultural awareness, and strong decision-making skills are highly desirable.

Continuous professional development, often facilitated by the organization, is necessary to stay updated on the latest intelligence techniques and technologies.

 

Covert Action Officer Education and Training Requirements

Covert Action Officers generally need a bachelor’s degree in fields such as criminal justice, international relations, political science, or a related field.

However, a master’s degree in these areas or in national security studies is highly recommended for specialized roles or for advancement.

Expertise in a foreign language and understanding of other cultures can be an asset in this profession.

In addition, a background in the military or law enforcement can be beneficial.

Covert Action Officers must complete a rigorous training program through the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) or a similar agency, where they learn skills such as surveillance, counter-surveillance, weaponry, and other clandestine techniques.

Due to the nature of the job, these officers must also pass stringent physical and psychological examinations and security checks.

Continued training is required to stay updated on new intelligence methods and technologies.

Professional certifications such as Certified Protection Professional (CPP) or Physical Security Professional (PSP) can be advantageous.

In addition, prior experience in a relevant field or even an internship in an intelligence agency can greatly increase the chances of securing a position as a Covert Action Officer.

 

Covert Action Officer Salary Expectations

The annual salary for a Covert Action Officer can greatly vary depending on the agency they work for and the level of experience they bring to the role.

However, the average salary can range from $75,000 to $100,000 (USD) per year.

This income might be supplemented with additional pay, such as hazard pay or foreign service premium.

The exact salary will depend on the individual’s specific role, years of service, and geographical location.

 

Covert Action Officer Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Covert Action Officer need?

Covert Action Officers should possess strong communication and interpersonal skills to effectively gather and relay information.

They need to be highly analytical, with a keen attention to detail for recognising patterns and anomalies.

Problem-solving and decision-making skills are vital in this role, as well as physical fitness and stress management capabilities.

A good understanding of technology and ability to adapt to various environments is also necessary.

 

What is the educational requirement for a Covert Action Officer?

There is no specific degree required to become a Covert Action Officer, but a bachelor’s degree in fields such as criminal justice, international relations, or political science could be beneficial.

Extensive training is often provided by the agency hiring the officer, which includes a focus on clandestine operations, intelligence gathering, and counterintelligence.

 

What should you look for in a Covert Action Officer resume?

Look for evidence of strong analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as experience in high-pressure situations.

Previous employment in law enforcement, military, or intelligence roles can be beneficial.

Language skills, particularly in languages relevant to potential areas of operation, are a strong asset.

The candidate should also have a clean background check.

 

What qualities make a good Covert Action Officer?

A good Covert Action Officer is observant, resourceful, and can think on their feet.

They have strong ethics and a commitment to national security.

They must also have the physical and emotional resilience to operate under stressful and potentially dangerous situations.

The ability to work well within a team and a capacity for discretion and confidentiality are also crucial qualities.

 

How difficult is it to hire a Covert Action Officer?

Hiring a Covert Action Officer can be challenging due to the specific skillset required and the extensive background checks involved.

The pool of suitable candidates is often limited, and the recruitment process can be long and rigorous to ensure that only the best qualified and most reliable individuals are selected.

 

Conclusion

There you have it.

Today, we pulled back the veil on the enigmatic role of a covert action officer.

And guess what?

It’s not just about executing clandestine operations.

It’s about safeguarding national security, one secret mission at a time.

With our comprehensive covert action officer job description template and real-world examples, you’re all set to embark on a thrilling career path.

But why limit yourself?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate resource to craft precise job listings or fine-tune your resume to a tee.

Remember:

Every mission is a piece of a larger, vital puzzle.

Let’s protect our nation. Together.

How to Become a Covert Action Officer (Complete Guide)

The Cheerful Chase: Enjoyable Jobs That Keep You Happy

No Suit, No Problem: Remote Jobs with Six-Figure Potentials!

High Stakes, High Rewards: Jobs That Demand Nerves of Steel

Status Symbol Careers: The Most Prestigious Jobs to Flaunt