The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) just announced a new hiring portal, called MyLINK. The portal is a web-based system that candidates can access on the CIA website. The goal is to modernize and streamline the hiring process for the Agency. Additionally, it helps the CIA connect with the right U.S. citizens to recruit them to join their foreign intelligence mission.
CIA Continues to Make Recruiting and Retention Changes
This new tool comes on the heels of other changes the CIA has recently made in their efforts to reduce hiring timelines and increase potential recruits. This past fall, the CIA took the time to give candidates an understanding of what it takes to get a job with the CIA. The CIA’s recruitment leader joined the Agency’s podcast, sharing helpful information about what the CIA is looking for and how to get connected. While many think that working at the CIA looks a little like The Bourne Identity, the podcast identified just how many career opportunities there are at America’s spying organization.
Additionally, the CIA made a new hire recently, making Dr. Jennifer Posa the CIA’s first-ever Chief Wellbeing Officer. Dr. Posa is focused on supporting the CIA workforce’s health and wellbeing. The move was part of the CIA’s strategy to not only address recruiting, but also retention. Prior to the addition of Dr. Posa this past fall, the CIA also opened a fitness facility, called Langley Field House. CIA Director William J. Burns shared in his opening remarks, “From my first day as Director, taking care of our people has been my top priority.”
Where is MyLINK?
Interested candidates can go to CIA.gov to find MyLINK. Once there, candidates can quickly fill out their information, upload their resume, and let recruiters know why you’re interested in a job with the CIA. You can also pick up to four different occupations. CIA recruiters will then be able to reach out to candidates that match with the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to start the conversation about a position with the Agency. If interested candidates are a good initial match, they will then be invited to submit a formal application with the CIA.
Director Burns noted that, “the CIA is committed to recruiting a diverse workforce of the highest caliber talent, and it is my hope that changes in our application process will make CIA an even more attractive place for those who are interested in public service and specifically the unique opportunities offered by working at CIA.”
Working at the CIA
Even after 75 years, the Agency is proving that they are adaptable. The work may still require a specific caliber of employee, but the Agency continues to show a commitment to support employees and recruit the next generation. The addition of MyLINK shows that the CIA is a national security employer that listens to its current staff and future recruits. With the accessibility of the portal, the CIA can more easily connect and recruit diverse skills and experiences that will support the mission.
The CIA acknowledges that their hiring process can be lengthy, but the outcome is an exciting career. The CIA lists out the minimum requirements to join their team:
- Physically in the United States or one of its territories when you apply.
- A U.S. Citizen (dual U.S. Citizens also eligible).
- At least 18 years of age.
- Willing to move to the Washington, DC area.
- You Must Complete Security and Medical Evaluations (and yes, that includes a polygraph).
