Human Intelligence Collector Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the modern era, the role of Human Intelligence Collectors has never been more critical.

As global complexities increase, the demand for proficient individuals who can gather, interpret, and secure our human intelligence resources grows more potent.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s genuinely expected from a Human Intelligence Collector?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager crafting the ideal candidate profile,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricate nature of human intelligence collection,

You’ve landed in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Human Intelligence Collector job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Human Intelligence Collector Duties and Responsibilities

Human Intelligence Collectors are responsible for information collection operations.

They provide Army personnel with information about the enemy’s strengths, weaknesses, and potential battle areas by interrogating and debriefing, as well as conducting military source operations.

Their responsibilities include:

• Collecting intelligence by screening local and regional media sources and conducting interrogations and debriefings
• Preparing intelligence reports, maps, charts, and tactical human intelligence to support strategic initiatives and operations
• Coordinating with allied, national and US intelligence agencies to validate and distribute collected information
• Performing source operations to gather actionable human intelligence
• Using interpreters and managing interpreter/translator operations
• Screening human intelligence sources and documents
• Conducting liaison activities with foreign, and U.S., law enforcement, security, and intelligence agencies
• Assessing incoming reports and information to ensure accuracy and relevance

 

Human Intelligence Collector Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Human Intelligence Collector to join our team.

The candidate will be responsible for information collection operations.

The role involves conducting operations that include gathering, analyzing, and interpreting wide-ranging intelligence data.

Our ideal candidate is highly observant, insightful, and has an exceptional ability to draw accurate conclusions based on the collected intelligence.

 

Responsibilities

• Conduct information collection operations.
• Perform source operations, debriefings, and interrogations.
• Analyze and evaluate intelligence data to enhance operational effectiveness.
• Prepare and deliver intelligence reports to superiors and stakeholders.
• Develop and maintain liaison with counterparts within the intelligence community.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant laws and regulations during intelligence operations.
• Assist in the planning and coordination of intelligence operations.
• Maintain meticulous records of all intelligence data.

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as an intelligence officer or similar role.
• Strong understanding of intelligence collection methods and techniques.
• Excellent analytical and critical thinking skills.
• Ability to interpret complex data and information accurately.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills.
• High degree of discretion and confidentiality.
• Bachelor’s degree in criminology, international relations, or a related field.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Human Intelligence Collector
• Work Environment: This position involves both office-based work and fieldwork. The role may also require travel for intelligence gathering and meetings.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Intelligence Collection Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $70,000 minimum to $120,000 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 Human Intelligence Collector Do?

Human Intelligence Collectors are specialized professionals primarily found in military or government agencies, where they play a critical role in gathering, analyzing, and managing information that is necessary for planning and decision-making.

Their job primarily involves collecting intelligence from a range of human sources.

This can include conducting interviews, interrogations, and debriefings, often in a foreign language.

They may also screen human intelligence sources and documents to cross-verify the credibility of the information.

Human Intelligence Collectors are also responsible for preparing intelligence reports to summarize the collected information.

They may also have to coordinate with other intelligence departments or agencies to cross-check and validate the collected information.

In addition to this, they are responsible for safeguarding the security of classified information.

They must adhere to strict ethical guidelines and respect human rights during the process of intelligence collection.

Given the nature of their work, they often need to have strong skills in communication, critical thinking, and situational analysis, as well as a deep understanding of cultural differences and international affairs.

They may also be required to work under stressful conditions and in different geographic locations.

 

Human Intelligence Collector Qualifications and Skills

A Human Intelligence Collector should possess a set of specialized skills and qualifications to effectively gather, analyze, and interpret information from various sources, including:

• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills for interpreting, evaluating, and integrating information from a variety of sources.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to establish and maintain effective relationships with informants and gather valuable intelligence data.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment and make quick decisions in high-pressure situations.
• Knowledge of foreign languages and cultures, to understand, interact and gather information from non-English speaking sources.
• Military or security training to understand the operational context and adapt to changing environments and situations.
• Understanding of legal and ethical guidelines related to intelligence collection and a commitment to uphold them.
• Physical stamina and mental resilience to handle stressful situations and work in potentially dangerous environments.
• Technical skills to operate and manage surveillance equipment and other intelligence collection devices.
• Good report writing and presentation skills to share findings with superiors or team members.

 

Human Intelligence Collector Experience Requirements

Entry-level Human Intelligence Collector candidates are typically required to have an understanding of human intelligence gathering techniques, which can be gained through related courses in college or university.

These beginners may have experience through internships, research projects, or part-time roles in intelligence collection or analysis.

Some candidates may also gain relevant experience through military service, as many intelligence agencies have a preference for veterans.

Candidates with 1 to 3 years of experience usually have a solid foundation in the basics of human intelligence collection, including interview techniques, information evaluation, and report writing.

They may also have experience in operational environments, and in the use of advanced intelligence gathering technology.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience in the field are often expected to have advanced knowledge and skills in human intelligence collection and analysis.

They may be proficient in a foreign language, have experience with source operations, and demonstrate the ability to analyze and interpret complex information.

Those with more than 5 years of experience, often have significant leadership experience, and may be ready for a managerial or team-lead position within an intelligence agency or department.

They are often required to have a strong strategic understanding of intelligence operations, and the ability to guide and mentor less experienced team members.

 

Human Intelligence Collector Education and Training Requirements

Human Intelligence Collectors typically need a high school diploma or equivalent as a minimum educational requirement.

Many in this field also pursue a bachelor’s degree in intelligence studies, international relations, political science, or a related field to gain a broader understanding of geopolitical dynamics and international relations.

They must also undertake extensive on-the-job training provided by their respective intelligence agencies.

This training is rigorous and covers topics such as intelligence collection techniques, covert operations, surveillance, counterintelligence, and foreign language proficiency.

A strong proficiency in at least one foreign language, preferably relevant to the area of operation, is often a critical requirement for Human Intelligence Collectors.

Some roles may also require a master’s degree in a relevant field or a specialized certification, such as Certified Defense Intelligence Collection Management Professional (CDICMP).

Prior military or law enforcement experience can be advantageous, and security clearance is often required due to the sensitive nature of the information handled in this role.

Continuous professional development is also crucial in this field due to the evolving nature of intelligence gathering techniques and technologies.

 

Human Intelligence Collector Salary Expectations

A Human Intelligence Collector can expect to earn an average salary of $66,000 (USD) per year.

However, this can fluctuate depending on a variety of factors including experience, level of training, and the specific employing organization.

Salaries may also vary depending on the geographical location of the role.

 

Human Intelligence Collector Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Human Intelligence Collector need?

Human Intelligence Collectors should have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, as they are required to build rapport and interact with individuals from various backgrounds.

They should possess strong analytical and investigative skills, as they need to extract, analyze and interpret information.

Cultural understanding, foreign language proficiency, and an ability to work under pressure are other important skills for this role.

 

Do Human Intelligence Collectors need a degree?

While a degree is not always required, a bachelor’s degree in fields such as International Relations, Criminal Justice, or Psychology can be beneficial.

What is often more important is to have completed the military’s Human Intelligence Collector course or similar intelligence training programs.

Background checks and security clearances are typically required for this role.

 

What should you look for in a Human Intelligence Collector resume?

The resume of a Human Intelligence Collector should demonstrate skills in gathering and analyzing information, preferably with examples of past intelligence operations.

Look for experience in report writing, briefings, and de-briefings.

Proficiency in a foreign language and any experience living or working abroad can be advantageous.

Check for necessary security clearances and military or law enforcement training.

 

What qualities make a good Human Intelligence Collector?

A good Human Intelligence Collector is detail-oriented, intuitive, and possesses a high level of cultural sensitivity.

They should be patient, as gathering intelligence can be a slow process, and resilient, as they may need to handle stressful situations.

An ability to think critically and make swift, sound decisions is vital.

They should also uphold a high degree of integrity and confidentiality due to the sensitive nature of the information they handle.

 

Is it difficult to hire Human Intelligence Collectors?

Hiring Human Intelligence Collectors can be challenging due to the specific skill set and experience required for the role.

Suitable candidates often come from military, law enforcement, or related backgrounds, which may limit the applicant pool.

Furthermore, the necessity for security clearances and background checks can make the hiring process longer and more rigorous than for other roles.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve unmasked the true essence of what it really means to be a Human Intelligence Collector.

Guess what?

It’s not just about collecting information.

It’s about shaping the landscape of intelligence gathering, one piece of vital information at a time.

With our definitive Human Intelligence Collector job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the plunge.

But why stop there?

Dive deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to meticulously-crafted listings or polishing your resume to absolute brilliance.

Remember:

Every piece of information gathered is a part of the bigger picture.

Let’s shape that landscape. Together.

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