Criminal Intelligence Analyst Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In a world increasingly focused on security, the role of criminal intelligence analysts has never been more critical.
As the battle against crime continues, the need for skilled individuals capable of deciphering, expanding, and safeguarding our understanding of criminal activity grows exponentially.
But what exactly is expected from a criminal intelligence analyst?
Whether you are:
- A job seeker striving to understand the nature of this role,
- A hiring manager conceptualizing the perfect candidate,
- Or simply curious about the intricacies of criminal intelligence analysis,
You’ve come to the right place.
Today, we present a customizable criminal intelligence analyst job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.
Let’s dive right in.
Criminal Intelligence Analyst Duties and Responsibilities
Criminal Intelligence Analysts use analytical and problem-solving skills to assess, interpret and process criminal intelligence data.
They are integral to law enforcement agencies and work to prevent and solve crimes.
Their duties and responsibilities include:
- Collecting and analyzing data related to criminal activity
- Using statistical analysis to identify criminal patterns and trends
- Developing intelligence reports and briefings for law enforcement and decision-makers
- Using advanced software and databases to manage and interpret data
- Collaborating with law enforcement and other agencies to share information and coordinate responses
- Assisting in the planning and execution of criminal investigations and operations
- Maintaining knowledge of current events, legal developments and advancements in technology relevant to criminal intelligence
- Adhering to strict privacy and confidentiality requirements when handling sensitive information
- Providing expert testimony in court when necessary
Criminal Intelligence Analyst Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are seeking a detail-oriented and analytical Criminal Intelligence Analyst to join our team.
In this role, you will be responsible for collecting, evaluating, analyzing, and disseminating information and intelligence data regarding criminal activities.
Your responsibilities will include analyzing crime patterns and trends, providing actionable intelligence to law enforcement personnel, and contributing to strategic planning and decision-making processes.
The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of criminal behavior and investigative techniques, and have demonstrated experience in data collection and analysis.
Responsibilities
- Collect, evaluate, and analyze data from a variety of sources including law enforcement databases, surveillance activities, intelligence networks, and geographical information systems.
- Analyze crime trends and patterns, and provide actionable intelligence to assist in law enforcement efforts.
- Prepare reports and presentations detailing findings, conclusions, and actionable intelligence.
- Provide strategic and tactical analysis to support crime prevention and reduction initiatives.
- Assist in the planning and coordination of criminal investigations and operations.
- Work closely with law enforcement personnel and other relevant stakeholders to ensure the appropriate dissemination of intelligence.
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of criminal activities, trends, and developments.
- Ensure compliance with all relevant laws and regulations pertaining to intelligence activities.
Qualifications
- Proven experience as a Criminal Intelligence Analyst or similar role.
- Strong understanding of criminal behavior, investigative techniques, and intelligence principles.
- Experience with data collection, analysis, and dissemination.
- Proficiency in relevant software tools and platforms such as GIS and crime mapping software.
- Excellent analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
- Strong written and oral communication skills.
- Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, Criminology, Intelligence Studies, or a related field.
Benefits
- 401(k)
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Retirement plan
- Paid time off
- Professional development opportunities
Additional Information
- Job Title: Criminal Intelligence Analyst
- Work Environment: Office setting with potential fieldwork. Some travel may be required for investigations and conferences.
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Criminal Intelligence Manager.
- Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
- Pay Range: $67,235 minimum to $102,789 maximum
- 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 and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].
What Does a Criminal Intelligence Analyst Do?
Criminal Intelligence Analysts work predominantly for law enforcement agencies, government bodies, or private security firms.
They can also be self-employed or contracted consultants.
Their primary role is to collect, analyze, and interpret data related to criminal activities.
They use a variety of investigative tools and methodologies to identify patterns, trends, and potential threats.
They work closely with law enforcement officers, detectives, and other professionals in the criminal justice system to provide actionable intelligence that aids in investigations, arrests, and prosecutions.
Criminal Intelligence Analysts often use software to create visualizations such as charts, graphs, and maps to clearly communicate their findings.
They may also prepare comprehensive written reports.
They are also responsible for maintaining databases of criminal intelligence information and ensuring this sensitive data is stored securely.
A significant part of their role involves staying updated with emerging trends in crime, understanding the modus operandi of various criminal networks and constantly updating their knowledge of relevant laws and regulations.
Their expertise might also be called upon in courtrooms, where they present their findings as evidence or expert testimony.
Criminal Intelligence Analyst Qualifications and Skills
A competent Criminal Intelligence Analyst should possess the following qualifications and skills:
- Strong analytical skills to examine and interpret large amounts of data from different sources and turn it into actionable intelligence.
- Excellent communication skills to write clear and concise reports and present findings to law enforcement personnel or other relevant stakeholders.
- High level of attention to detail to spot patterns, trends, and discrepancies in data.
- Proficiency in using various types of software and technologies for data analysis, such as GIS systems, spreadsheets, databases, and statistical analysis tools.
- Problem-solving skills to identify potential threats or criminal activity.
- Knowledge of criminal justice system and understanding of criminal behaviors, criminology theories, and law enforcement operations.
- Ability to work under pressure and make decisions in high-stakes situations.
- Excellent interpersonal skills to collaborate with law enforcement officers, other intelligence analysts, and a range of stakeholders.
- Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, intelligence studies, or a related field, and/or relevant work experience in law enforcement or intelligence.
Criminal Intelligence Analyst Experience Requirements
Entry-level Criminal Intelligence Analysts often have 1 to 2 years of experience, typically gained through internships or part-time roles in law enforcement, criminal justice, or similar fields.
Graduates from fields like criminology, psychology, or sociology might also have the relevant academic background that can supplement practical experience.
Candidates with 2 to 4 years of experience in roles such as Crime Scene Investigator, Police Officer, or Paralegal may have developed the necessary analytical skills and legal knowledge required for the role of a Criminal Intelligence Analyst.
Those with 5 years or more of experience in a law enforcement or intelligence role may have honed their analytical, investigative, and communication skills and may have experience working with intelligence databases and software.
They are often ready for senior or leadership roles within intelligence teams, and may also be prepared to advise on policy and strategy based on their analysis of criminal intelligence.
Additional training or certification, such as in forensic analytics or criminal profiling, may also be beneficial and can set apart candidates for more specialized or advanced intelligence analyst roles.
Criminal Intelligence Analyst Education and Training Requirements
Criminal Intelligence Analysts typically hold a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, criminology, psychology, or a related field.
They are expected to have a strong understanding of criminal behavior, laws, law enforcement strategies and criminal investigation techniques.
The role often requires knowledge of computer systems and software, particularly databases and crime mapping software.
Some knowledge in statistics and data analysis can also be beneficial.
Further specialization can be obtained through a master’s degree in criminal justice or intelligence studies.
Professional certification, such as Certified Crime Analyst or Certified Law Enforcement Analyst, while not always required, can enhance job prospects and demonstrate commitment to the field.
To keep up with the latest techniques in crime analysis, ongoing training and professional development are often encouraged.
This may include attending workshops, seminars, or courses related to crime analysis, intelligence gathering, and data interpretation.
Criminal Intelligence Analyst Salary Expectations
The average salary for a Criminal Intelligence Analyst is approximately $75,217 (USD) per year.
The actual earnings can vary significantly based on factors such as experience, level of education, location, and the specific agency or company of employment.
Criminal Intelligence Analyst Job Description FAQs
What skills does a Criminal Intelligence Analyst need?
Criminal Intelligence Analysts should have strong analytical skills to interpret and synthesize complex data into actionable intelligence.
They need to possess excellent communication skills to effectively share their findings with team members, law enforcement officers, and decision-makers.
Proficiency in statistical software and databases is also required, and a keen eye for detail will enable them to identify patterns and trends in criminal activity.
Do Criminal Intelligence Analysts need a degree?
Typically, a Criminal Intelligence Analyst requires a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, law enforcement, or a related field.
Some roles may require a master’s degree or significant experience in law enforcement or intelligence analysis.
Moreover, understanding of criminology, sociology, and psychology can be beneficial.
What should you look for in a Criminal Intelligence Analyst resume?
A Criminal Intelligence Analyst’s resume should highlight their analytical skills, knowledge of law enforcement principles, and familiarity with data analysis tools.
Any experience in law enforcement or intelligence analysis should be prominently featured.
Advanced degrees or certifications in criminal justice, intelligence studies, or related fields would be a plus.
What qualities make a good Criminal Intelligence Analyst?
A good Criminal Intelligence Analyst is meticulous, detail-oriented, and has a natural curiosity that drives them to uncover patterns and trends in data.
They are proficient in handling large datasets and can extract meaningful insights from them.
They have strong written and verbal communication skills to effectively share their findings, and they are able to remain objective and impartial in their analysis.
What are the daily duties of a Criminal Intelligence Analyst?
On a typical day, a Criminal Intelligence Analyst might review criminal data, identify patterns, and compile reports on their findings.
They may collaborate with law enforcement officers and other analysts to gain more insight into specific cases or trends.
They might also use statistical software to analyze data and create visual representations of criminal activity patterns.
Part of their time might be spent updating databases and ensuring the accuracy of the information they are using.
Conclusion
So, there you have it.
Today, we delved into the intricate world of being a criminal intelligence analyst.
Guess what?
It’s not just about solving cases.
It’s about forming the backbone of criminal justice, one piece of information at a time.
With our top-notch criminal intelligence analyst job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready to embark on your career journey.
But why halt your journey here?
Venture further with our job description generator. It’s your guide to creating precise job listings or refining your resume to unrivaled excellence.
Remember:
Every piece of information contributes to the bigger picture.
Let’s build a safer community. Together.
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