Central Intelligence Agency

Name: Kathy P.
Position: Chief, Technical Hiring Division
Education: B.S. University of Virginia
Location: Washington, DC

How did you get your start at this organization?
I joined the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) in 1989. At that time, information about work opportunities was not readily available to the public. I learned about the CIA through a relative who worked there. My first assignment was administrative work.

What do you enjoy most about your job?
I am currently a recruiter so my work includes identifying and hiring technical talent for the CIA’s Directorate of Science and Technology (DS&T). The best thing about being a recruiter is the opportunity to talk with potential candidates who are interested in the CIA. In most cases, recruiters are the first opportunity for candidates to hear about the Agency. As a recruiter, it is rewarding to know that finding and hiring talented individuals will impact the Agency for the next 20-plus years.

What do you look for in entry-level employees?
One of our DS&T focus areas is increasing our student intern and co-op population. The DS&T is looking for electrical and computer engineers, computer science majors, as well as other science and technology backgrounds. We look for creative and innovative problem solvers.

Can you give us any sneak peaks into the typical interview? What kind of questions should candidates expect?
The CIA’s interview is behavioral based. We ask specific questions to understand applicants’ initiative, interpersonal skills, and ability to work in a team environment. There will also be specific questions related to an applicant’s technical skills and abilities.

What mistakes can a candidate make that will take them out of the running for a position?
Here are a few items that could be potential roadblocks: Not applying on-line, embellishing your skills, and lack of responsiveness for information.

How should a candidate follow up after an interview at your organization?
We generally give candidates contact information following an interview. Since recruiters are typically on travel, it is best to email them any additional questions or concerns.

What is the office culture like?
The Agency is an exciting place to work. We value creativity and innovation and employees work to solve real-world intelligence problems. The CIA is focused on foreign intelligence to ensure the safety of the Nation. The CIA is a multifaceted organization where employees have the opportunity to work in a vast number of career areas. The Agency is an organization that helps employees strive for a healthy work and family life balance.

What is the biggest misconception people have about working there?
The Recruitment Center publishes a CIA myth book that lists some of the misconceptions about the Agency. For example, once you join the Agency you don’t see your family or that all CIA employees are issued fancy cars. The Agency is a family friendly organization and I’ve had limited access to a minivan for government business.