Marine Corps 0231 Intelligence Specialist to Civilian: Complete Career Transition Guide (2025 Salaries)

Bottom Line Up Front

As a 0231 Intelligence Specialist, you have in-demand analytical skills that translate directly to civilian intelligence careers: all-source intelligence analysis, threat assessment, intelligence production, briefing preparation, and Secret/Top Secret clearances. Your intelligence experience positions you for $70,000-$120,000+ roles with defense contractors, federal intelligence agencies (DIA, NGA, NSA, CIA), and private sector intelligence firms. If you maintain an active TS/SCI clearance, you can command $85,000-$145,000+ immediately in contractor positions. The intelligence community is actively hiring analysts—your military intelligence background, clearance, and analytical experience make you exactly what they're looking for.

Let's address the elephant in the room

Every 0231 who starts job hunting hits the same wall: "How do I explain what I did?" and "Is my intelligence experience even valuable in the civilian world?"

Here's the truth: Civilian intelligence organizations are desperate for experienced all-source analysts.

You didn't just "read reports and make slides." You:

Conducted all-source intelligence analysis (HUMINT, SIGINT, IMINT, OSINT)
Produced intelligence assessments and briefing materials
Analyzed enemy tactics, capabilities, and intentions
Conducted pattern-of-life analysis and target development
Briefed commanders and staff on threat assessments
Managed and analyzed intelligence databases and systems
Fused multi-source intelligence into actionable products
Maintained Secret or Top Secret/SCI clearances
Worked under operational deadlines producing time-sensitive intelligence

That's intelligence analysis, threat assessment, critical thinking, data fusion, briefing skills, report writing, and classified information handling. Defense contractors, federal intelligence agencies, and private intelligence firms pay top dollar for exactly these skills.

The challenge isn't whether you're qualified—it's translating "0231" into civilian-friendly language and knowing where your skills are most valued.

Best civilian career paths for 0231 Intelligence Specialists

Let's break down real job titles and 2025 salary data.

Defense contractors - Intelligence analysis (best immediate pay)

Civilian job titles:

All-source intelligence analyst
Targeting analyst
Intelligence analyst (tactical/strategic)
Operations intelligence analyst
Threat intelligence analyst
Intelligence production analyst
Mission analyst

Salary ranges:

Entry-level with active clearance: $70,000-$90,000
Intelligence analyst (2-4 years civilian experience): $90,000-$115,000
Senior intelligence analyst: $115,000-$140,000
Lead analyst/manager: $130,000-$160,000
Subject matter expert (SME): $145,000-$175,000
Overseas contractor positions: $120,000-$180,000+

Top employers actively hiring 0231s:

Booz Allen Hamilton (massive intelligence analysis practice)
CACI International (defense intelligence support)
Leidos (intelligence mission services)
BAE Systems (intelligence and security)
Northrop Grumman (ISR and intelligence)
General Dynamics IT (intelligence support)
Peraton (intelligence operations)
ManTech (intelligence analysis)
Parsons (defense intelligence)

What translates directly:

All-source intelligence analysis
Threat assessment and pattern analysis
Intelligence production and reporting
Briefing preparation and delivery
Multi-source intelligence fusion (IMINT, SIGINT, HUMINT)
Intelligence databases and systems (DCGS, M3, SIPR/JWICS)
Active TS/SCI clearance (worth $20K-35K salary premium)

Certifications needed:

Active Secret or TS/SCI clearance (critical—this is your biggest asset)
Associate's or bachelor's degree (increasingly required by prime contractors)
Security+ or equivalent (for DoD 8570 compliance on IT-touching intelligence work)
Analyst training certifications (document your military intelligence courses)

Reality check: Defense contractors will hire you immediately if you have an active clearance. Entry-level cleared analysts start at $70K-90K. With 4-6 years experience, you're looking at $100K-130K.

The work is often similar to your military role: analyzing threats, producing intelligence assessments, briefing leadership, supporting operations. Just in civilian clothes for significantly better pay.

Many positions support CENTCOM, SOCOM, INDOPACOM, or intelligence agencies. Some are stateside; others require OCONUS deployments (which pay more).

Contracts can change—companies win and lose contracts regularly. Job security comes from being good enough that companies fight to keep you when contracts transition.

Your clearance is currency. Maintain it if at all possible. Contractors care more about active clearances than your degree.

Best for: 0231s with active clearances who want maximum immediate pay using intelligence analysis skills with minimal transition time.

Federal intelligence agencies - Analyst positions

Civilian job titles:

Intelligence analyst (DIA, CIA, NSA, NGA, FBI)
All-source analyst
Targeting analyst
Collection management analyst
Geopolitical analyst
Regional analyst

Salary ranges (2025 GS pay scale, DC locality):

GS-9/11 entry: $60,000-$80,000
GS-12 (mid-career): $85,000-$105,000
GS-13 (senior analyst): $105,000-$130,000
GS-14 (lead analyst): $125,000-$155,000
GS-15 (senior leadership): $148,000-$185,000

Top agencies hiring 0231s:

Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) - military intelligence focused
National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) - GEOINT analysis
National Security Agency (NSA) - SIGINT analysis
Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) - strategic intelligence
FBI - intelligence analysts supporting investigations
National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC) - CT analysis
DHS Intelligence & Analysis - homeland threats

What translates directly:

All-source intelligence analysis
Threat assessment methodologies
Intelligence production and writing
Briefing senior officials
Multi-source intelligence fusion
Understanding of military operations and capabilities
Classified information handling

Path requirements:

Bachelor's degree (required; master's preferred for higher grades)
Active clearance (agencies will sponsor renewal, but active is better)
Polygraph (required for CIA, NSA; FBI has separate process)
Background investigation (12-18 months if clearance needs renewal)

Reality check: Federal intelligence positions offer job security, mission focus, federal benefits (TSP, pension, health insurance), and structured career progression.

Salary starts lower than contractors ($60K-80K) but grows predictably. Annual step increases plus GS grade promotions mean steady income growth.

Hiring is SLOW. From application to start date: 9-24 months depending on agency. Polygraphs, background investigations, medical screenings—it's a marathon.

Veteran preference (5-10 points) gives you hiring advantages. Your military intelligence experience is exactly what agencies value.

Work-life balance is generally better than contractor roles supporting deployed operations. You're working regular schedules, federal holidays, and reasonable hours (mostly).

The mission is unmatched. You're producing intelligence that shapes national security decisions at the highest levels.

Best for: 0231s who want mission-focused work, federal benefits, job security, and structured career paths over maximum immediate salary.

Private sector intelligence and threat intelligence

Civilian job titles:

Threat intelligence analyst
Cyber threat intelligence analyst
Geopolitical risk analyst
Corporate intelligence analyst
Security intelligence analyst
Competitive intelligence analyst
Due diligence analyst

Salary ranges:

Entry-level analyst: $65,000-$85,000
Threat intelligence analyst: $85,000-$110,000
Senior analyst: $110,000-$140,000
Intelligence manager: $130,000-$165,000
Director of intelligence: $160,000-$220,000+

Top employers:

Tech companies (Microsoft, Google, Amazon, Meta - threat intelligence teams)
Financial institutions (JPMorgan, Goldman Sachs, Citigroup - risk analysis)
Recorded Future (threat intelligence platform)
Mandiant (Google Cloud) (cyber threat intelligence)
CrowdStrike (threat intelligence)
Flashpoint (security intelligence)
Stratfor (RANE) (geopolitical intelligence)
Control Risks (risk consulting)
S-RM (risk management)

What translates directly:

Intelligence analysis and assessment
Threat identification and pattern analysis
Open-source intelligence (OSINT)
Intelligence reporting and briefing
Critical thinking and analytical methodology
Multi-source information fusion

Certifications needed:

Bachelor's degree (required)
Clearance (not required but valued in some roles)
GIAC certifications (for cyber threat intelligence roles)
OSINT training (helpful for private sector)

Reality check: Private sector intelligence is growing fast. Companies need threat intelligence analysts to track cyber threats, geopolitical risks, competitive intelligence, and supply chain threats.

The work is less focused on classified programs, more on open-source analysis, commercial intelligence platforms, and corporate risk assessment.

Tech companies pay especially well—$100K-150K for experienced threat intelligence analysts. Financial services and consulting firms also pay competitively.

No clearance required (though it's still an asset and demonstrates trustworthiness). Work-life balance is generally better than government/contractor intelligence work.

Your military intelligence training gives you analytical rigor, structured thinking, and intelligence tradecraft that corporate intelligence teams value.

Best for: 0231s who want to use intelligence skills in the private sector, don't want to maintain clearances, and prefer corporate environments over DoD focus.

Federal law enforcement - Intelligence analyst

Civilian job titles:

FBI Intelligence Analyst
DEA Intelligence Research Specialist
ATF Intelligence Operations Specialist
HSI Intelligence Analyst
CBP Intelligence Analyst

Salary ranges (GS scale with locality):

Entry GS-9/11: $60,000-$80,000
Mid-career GS-12: $85,000-$105,000
Senior analyst GS-13: $105,000-$130,000
Supervisory GS-14/15: $125,000-$160,000

What translates directly:

Intelligence analysis and production
Threat assessment
Multi-source intelligence fusion
Briefing law enforcement leadership
Supporting tactical and strategic operations
Classified information handling

Path requirements:

Bachelor's degree (required)
Background investigation (18-24 months for FBI)
Polygraph (FBI requires it; varies by agency)
Drug testing and medical screening

Reality check: FBI Intelligence Analysts support criminal investigations, counterterrorism, counterintelligence, and cyber investigations. Your military intelligence background is perfect for FBI analytical work.

You're using intelligence analysis skills to support law enforcement operations instead of military operations. The tradecraft is the same—you're just analyzing criminal networks or terrorist threats instead of enemy forces.

Hiring timelines are 12-24 months for FBI. Other agencies (DEA, ATF, HSI) are typically 9-15 months.

Federal benefits are excellent: pension after 20 years, TSP matching, health insurance, job security.

Best for: 0231s who want to apply intelligence analysis to law enforcement missions with federal benefits and job security.

Defense and security think tanks

Civilian job titles:

Research analyst
Defense analyst
Geopolitical analyst
Junior fellow
Policy analyst

Salary ranges:

Junior researcher: $55,000-$70,000
Research analyst: $70,000-$90,000
Senior fellow/analyst: $90,000-$120,000

Top employers:

RAND Corporation (defense research)
Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS)
Institute for the Study of War (ISW)
Atlantic Council
American Enterprise Institute (AEI)
Brookings Institution

What translates directly:

Intelligence analysis and research
Report writing
Regional expertise
Threat assessment
Understanding military operations

Certifications needed:

Bachelor's degree (required)
Master's degree (often required; PhD preferred for senior roles)
Clearance (helpful but not always required)

Reality check: Think tank work pays less than contractors but offers intellectual freedom, publication opportunities, and policy influence. You're researching defense issues, writing papers, and shaping policy.

This path typically requires graduate education. Use your GI Bill for a master's in international relations, security studies, or regional studies.

Best for: 0231s who enjoy research and writing, want policy influence, and are willing to pursue graduate education for less pay but more intellectual engagement.

Skills translation table (for your resume)

Stop writing "0231 Intelligence Specialist" on civilian resumes. Translate it:

Military Skill	Civilian Translation
0231 Intelligence specialist	All-source intelligence analyst; threat intelligence analyst
All-source intelligence analysis	Multi-source intelligence fusion and analysis (HUMINT, SIGINT, IMINT, OSINT)
Intelligence preparation of battlespace	Threat assessment and intelligence support to operational planning
Briefed commanders on threats	Presented intelligence assessments to senior leadership and decision-makers
Produced intelligence summaries	Authored intelligence reports and analytical products supporting operations
Pattern-of-life analysis	Analyzed behavioral patterns and threat indicators through data analysis
Target development	Identified and assessed priority targets through intelligence analysis
TS/SCI clearance	Active Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information clearance
Intelligence databases (DCGS, M3)	Managed intelligence systems and databases for analytical production
Shift work in operations center	24/7 operational support; provided time-sensitive intelligence analysis

Resume writing tips for 0231s:

Lead with clearance: "TS/SCI cleared Intelligence Analyst with 5+ years all-source analytical experience"
Quantify production: "Produced 300+ intelligence reports supporting combat operations"
Emphasize results: "Intelligence analysis directly enabled 75+ successful targeting operations"
Highlight multi-source fusion: "Integrated SIGINT, IMINT, and HUMINT to produce comprehensive threat assessments"
Translate systems: Don't just write "DCGS"—explain "intelligence analysis systems and databases"

Certifications that actually matter for 0231s

Here's what's worth pursuing:

Critical priority:

Maintain your clearance - Your Secret or TS/SCI clearance is worth $20K-35K in immediate salary. With active clearance, you're employable at $75K+ within days. Let it lapse and you're waiting 12-18 months for renewal while competing for uncleared positions. Value: Priceless.

Bachelor's degree - Required by most defense contractors and federal agencies. Major doesn't matter hugely—international relations, intelligence studies, political science, criminal justice, or even business all work. Cost: $0 with GI Bill. Value: Mandatory for most analyst positions.

Security+ or equivalent - Required for DoD 8570 IAT Level II compliance if you're accessing DoD IT systems (most intelligence work qualifies). Cost: $400 exam. Time: 2-4 weeks study. Value: Opens most contractor intelligence positions.

Medium priority:

Master's degree - Not required initially, but valuable for career advancement to senior analyst (GS-13+) and leadership roles. Intelligence studies, international relations, security studies, regional studies, or data analytics. Cost: $0 with GI Bill. Time: 18-24 months part-time. Value: Competitive advantage; required for think tank work.

GIAC certifications (for cyber threat intelligence) - If pivoting to cyber threat intelligence: GCIA, GCTI. Cost: $2,000-3,000 per cert. Value: Opens $90K-130K cyber threat intel positions.

Project Management Professional (PMP) - For intelligence program management roles. Requires 3 years experience. Cost: $500-1,000 exam. Value: Opens $120K-165K program manager roles.

Language certifications (DLPT) - If you have foreign language skills, document them with Defense Language Proficiency Test scores. Arabic, Chinese, Russian, Farsi, Korean are high-demand. Value: $5K-15K language proficiency pay; competitive advantage for regional analyst roles.

Low priority:

Certified Defense Intelligence Professional (CDIP) - DoD intelligence certification. Free for military/federal. Value: Shows professional development; respected in defense intelligence community but not required.

OSINT certifications - Various OSINT training courses exist. Helpful for private sector roles but not critical. Value: Marginal; focus on proven experience instead.

The skills gap (what you need to learn)

Let's be honest about civilian intelligence work versus military:

Business communication: Your intelligence reports are probably solid, but civilian organizations expect polished PowerPoint presentations, executive summaries, and professional email communication. Polish your business writing and presentation skills.

Commercial intelligence tools: You're used to DCGS, M3, SIPR/JWICS systems. Civilian employers use commercial platforms (Palantir, Analyst Notebook, Maltego, i2, Tableau). You'll learn on the job, but basic familiarity with data analysis tools helps.

Private sector pace: Corporate threat intelligence moves fast—executives want answers in hours, not days. Federal agencies move slower with more bureaucracy. Contractors have billable hours pressure. Adjust expectations.

Technology literacy: Basic IT skills are assumed—Microsoft Office, Excel, SharePoint, Slack, Zoom, email. If you're weak on commercial tech, take free online courses.

Networking: In the military, orders come down the chain. In civilian careers, you need to network, maintain LinkedIn, attend conferences, and advocate for yourself. Get comfortable with self-promotion.

Resume and interviewing: Translating military intelligence work for civilian HR requires practice. Use the translation table above. Practice explaining your work in unclassified, civilian-friendly terms.

Real 0231 success stories

Jason, 26, former 0231 E-5 → Booz Allen Hamilton intelligence analyst

After 5 years including two deployments, Jason got out with active TS/SCI. Posted resume on ClearanceJobs on Monday, had recruiter calls by Wednesday. Interviewed with Booz Allen, Leidos, and CACI. Took Booz Allen offer supporting DIA at $88,000. Three years later makes $118,000 as a senior analyst. "The clearance was my golden ticket. They cared more about clearance than my degree."

Maria, 28, former 0231 E-6 → NGA intelligence analyst (GS-12)

Maria did 7 years, got out as a Staff Sergeant. Used GI Bill for bachelor's degree while working part-time contractor job. Applied to NGA, 16-month hiring process. Started as GS-11, promoted to GS-12 after two years. Makes $98,000. "Government hiring was slow but worth it. I'm doing GEOINT analysis for NGA—same mission, federal benefits."

David, 27, former 0231 E-4 → Microsoft threat intelligence analyst

David wanted to leave defense work. Transitioned to tech industry threat intelligence. Started at smaller cybersecurity firm at $75,000. Two years later, Microsoft hired him at $115,000. "My military intelligence training gave me analytical rigor that tech companies value. I analyze cyber threats instead of enemy forces."

Sarah, 29, former 0231 E-5 → FBI Intelligence Analyst

Sarah applied to FBI after 6 years. Hiring process took 20 months (background investigation, polygraph, interviews). Started as GS-11 at $78,000. Now GS-12 at $92,000 supporting counterterrorism investigations. "Long wait, but I'm using intelligence analysis to support FBI CT operations. Same tradecraft, different mission."

Action plan: Your first 90 days out

Month 1: Foundation and assessment

Week 1-2:
- Verify clearance status (contact S-2; check DISS)
- Get 10 certified copies of DD-214
- Apply for VA benefits if eligible
- Create professional email (firstname.lastname@gmail.com)
- Set up LinkedIn with professional photo
Week 3-4:
- Update resume using civilian terminology (reference translation table)
- Register on ClearanceJobs.com (primary job board for cleared intelligence work)
- Create USAJOBS account (for federal positions)
- Research 5 target companies/agencies (Booz Allen, CACI, Leidos, DIA, NGA)
- Join intelligence professional groups on LinkedIn

Month 2: Applications and networking

Week 5-6:
- Apply to 20+ positions (contractors, federal agencies, private sector)
- Tailor resume for each application (emphasize relevant experience)
- Connect with 25+ intelligence professionals on LinkedIn
- Contact defense contractor recruiters directly (they're actively recruiting)
- Attend virtual veteran hiring events
Week 7-8:
- Continue applications (15+ per week)
- If no degree: Enroll in bachelor's program using GI Bill
- Get Security+ certification (2-4 weeks study, $400 exam)
- Practice explaining intelligence work in unclassified terms
- Prepare interview stories using STAR method

Month 3: Interviews and decision-making

Week 9-10:
- Interview phase (contractors move fastest, federal agencies slowest)
- Get professional interview outfit
- Research company contracts and mission areas before interviews
- Prepare portfolio: resume, reference list, sanitized work examples
- Ask intelligent questions about clearance, team, mission, growth
Week 11-12:
- Evaluate offers (consider salary, clearance, location, mission, benefits)
- Negotiate salary (clearance gives you leverage)
- Consider taking contractor role while waiting for federal agency hiring (12-24 months)
- Accept offer and begin transition process
- Plan relocation if necessary

Bottom line for 0231 Intelligence Specialists

Your 0231 intelligence analysis experience is highly valued in civilian intelligence markets. You're not starting from scratch—you're entering with professional analytical experience, intelligence training, and (ideally) an active clearance.

Defense contractors will pay $75K-115K immediately for cleared analysts. Federal agencies offer $65K-95K to start with job security, benefits, and clear progression to $125K-155K at senior levels. Private sector threat intelligence pays $75K-130K without clearance requirements.

Your clearance is currency—worth $20K-35K in immediate salary value. Maintain it if possible.

First-year civilian income of $70K-95K is realistic for 0231s with clearances. Within 5 years, $100K-130K+ is achievable through strategic moves and skill development.

Thousands of military intelligence analysts have successfully transitioned before you. The demand is strong. The opportunities are real. The path is clear.

Execute your transition with the same analytical rigor you brought to intelligence operations. Research targets, apply strategically, network effectively, and stay focused.

Semper Fi, and good luck in your next mission.

Ready to transition your intelligence career? Use the career planning tools at Military Transition Toolkit to research intelligence positions, track applications, and plan your career path.

Bottom Line Up Front

Let's address the elephant in the room

Every 0231 who starts job hunting hits the same wall: "How do I explain what I did?" and "Is my intelligence experience even valuable in the civilian world?"

Here's the truth: Civilian intelligence organizations are desperate for experienced all-source analysts.

You didn't just "read reports and make slides." You:

Conducted all-source intelligence analysis (HUMINT, SIGINT, IMINT, OSINT)
Produced intelligence assessments and briefing materials
Analyzed enemy tactics, capabilities, and intentions
Conducted pattern-of-life analysis and target development
Briefed commanders and staff on threat assessments
Managed and analyzed intelligence databases and systems
Fused multi-source intelligence into actionable products
Maintained Secret or Top Secret/SCI clearances
Worked under operational deadlines producing time-sensitive intelligence

The challenge isn't whether you're qualified—it's translating "0231" into civilian-friendly language and knowing where your skills are most valued.

Best civilian career paths for 0231 Intelligence Specialists

Let's break down real job titles and 2025 salary data.

Defense contractors - Intelligence analysis (best immediate pay)

Civilian job titles:

All-source intelligence analyst
Targeting analyst
Intelligence analyst (tactical/strategic)
Operations intelligence analyst
Threat intelligence analyst
Intelligence production analyst
Mission analyst

Salary ranges:

Entry-level with active clearance: $70,000-$90,000
Intelligence analyst (2-4 years civilian experience): $90,000-$115,000
Senior intelligence analyst: $115,000-$140,000
Lead analyst/manager: $130,000-$160,000
Subject matter expert (SME): $145,000-$175,000
Overseas contractor positions: $120,000-$180,000+

Top employers actively hiring 0231s:

Booz Allen Hamilton (massive intelligence analysis practice)
CACI International (defense intelligence support)
Leidos (intelligence mission services)
BAE Systems (intelligence and security)
Northrop Grumman (ISR and intelligence)
General Dynamics IT (intelligence support)
Peraton (intelligence operations)
ManTech (intelligence analysis)
Parsons (defense intelligence)

What translates directly:

All-source intelligence analysis
Threat assessment and pattern analysis
Intelligence production and reporting
Briefing preparation and delivery
Multi-source intelligence fusion (IMINT, SIGINT, HUMINT)
Intelligence databases and systems (DCGS, M3, SIPR/JWICS)
Active TS/SCI clearance (worth $20K-35K salary premium)

Certifications needed:

Active Secret or TS/SCI clearance (critical—this is your biggest asset)
Associate's or bachelor's degree (increasingly required by prime contractors)
Security+ or equivalent (for DoD 8570 compliance on IT-touching intelligence work)
Analyst training certifications (document your military intelligence courses)

Many positions support CENTCOM, SOCOM, INDOPACOM, or intelligence agencies. Some are stateside; others require OCONUS deployments (which pay more).

Contracts can change—companies win and lose contracts regularly. Job security comes from being good enough that companies fight to keep you when contracts transition.

Your clearance is currency. Maintain it if at all possible. Contractors care more about active clearances than your degree.

Best for: 0231s with active clearances who want maximum immediate pay using intelligence analysis skills with minimal transition time.

Federal intelligence agencies - Analyst positions

Civilian job titles:

Intelligence analyst (DIA, CIA, NSA, NGA, FBI)
All-source analyst
Targeting analyst
Collection management analyst
Geopolitical analyst
Regional analyst

Salary ranges (2025 GS pay scale, DC locality):

GS-9/11 entry: $60,000-$80,000
GS-12 (mid-career): $85,000-$105,000
GS-13 (senior analyst): $105,000-$130,000
GS-14 (lead analyst): $125,000-$155,000
GS-15 (senior leadership): $148,000-$185,000

Top agencies hiring 0231s:

Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) - military intelligence focused
National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) - GEOINT analysis
National Security Agency (NSA) - SIGINT analysis
Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) - strategic intelligence
FBI - intelligence analysts supporting investigations
National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC) - CT analysis
DHS Intelligence & Analysis - homeland threats

What translates directly:

All-source intelligence analysis
Threat assessment methodologies
Intelligence production and writing
Briefing senior officials
Multi-source intelligence fusion
Understanding of military operations and capabilities
Classified information handling

Path requirements:

Bachelor's degree (required; master's preferred for higher grades)
Active clearance (agencies will sponsor renewal, but active is better)
Polygraph (required for CIA, NSA; FBI has separate process)
Background investigation (12-18 months if clearance needs renewal)

Reality check: Federal intelligence positions offer job security, mission focus, federal benefits (TSP, pension, health insurance), and structured career progression.

Salary starts lower than contractors ($60K-80K) but grows predictably. Annual step increases plus GS grade promotions mean steady income growth.

Hiring is SLOW. From application to start date: 9-24 months depending on agency. Polygraphs, background investigations, medical screenings—it's a marathon.

Veteran preference (5-10 points) gives you hiring advantages. Your military intelligence experience is exactly what agencies value.

Work-life balance is generally better than contractor roles supporting deployed operations. You're working regular schedules, federal holidays, and reasonable hours (mostly).

The mission is unmatched. You're producing intelligence that shapes national security decisions at the highest levels.

Best for: 0231s who want mission-focused work, federal benefits, job security, and structured career paths over maximum immediate salary.

Private sector intelligence and threat intelligence

Civilian job titles:

Threat intelligence analyst
Cyber threat intelligence analyst
Geopolitical risk analyst
Corporate intelligence analyst
Security intelligence analyst
Competitive intelligence analyst
Due diligence analyst

Salary ranges:

Entry-level analyst: $65,000-$85,000
Threat intelligence analyst: $85,000-$110,000
Senior analyst: $110,000-$140,000
Intelligence manager: $130,000-$165,000
Director of intelligence: $160,000-$220,000+

Top employers:

Tech companies (Microsoft, Google, Amazon, Meta - threat intelligence teams)
Financial institutions (JPMorgan, Goldman Sachs, Citigroup - risk analysis)
Recorded Future (threat intelligence platform)
Mandiant (Google Cloud) (cyber threat intelligence)
CrowdStrike (threat intelligence)
Flashpoint (security intelligence)
Stratfor (RANE) (geopolitical intelligence)
Control Risks (risk consulting)
S-RM (risk management)

What translates directly:

Intelligence analysis and assessment
Threat identification and pattern analysis
Open-source intelligence (OSINT)
Intelligence reporting and briefing
Critical thinking and analytical methodology
Multi-source information fusion

Certifications needed:

Bachelor's degree (required)
Clearance (not required but valued in some roles)
GIAC certifications (for cyber threat intelligence roles)
OSINT training (helpful for private sector)

The work is less focused on classified programs, more on open-source analysis, commercial intelligence platforms, and corporate risk assessment.

Tech companies pay especially well—$100K-150K for experienced threat intelligence analysts. Financial services and consulting firms also pay competitively.

No clearance required (though it's still an asset and demonstrates trustworthiness). Work-life balance is generally better than government/contractor intelligence work.

Your military intelligence training gives you analytical rigor, structured thinking, and intelligence tradecraft that corporate intelligence teams value.

Best for: 0231s who want to use intelligence skills in the private sector, don't want to maintain clearances, and prefer corporate environments over DoD focus.

Federal law enforcement - Intelligence analyst

Civilian job titles:

FBI Intelligence Analyst
DEA Intelligence Research Specialist
ATF Intelligence Operations Specialist
HSI Intelligence Analyst
CBP Intelligence Analyst

Salary ranges (GS scale with locality):

Entry GS-9/11: $60,000-$80,000
Mid-career GS-12: $85,000-$105,000
Senior analyst GS-13: $105,000-$130,000
Supervisory GS-14/15: $125,000-$160,000

What translates directly:

Intelligence analysis and production
Threat assessment
Multi-source intelligence fusion
Briefing law enforcement leadership
Supporting tactical and strategic operations
Classified information handling

Path requirements:

Bachelor's degree (required)
Background investigation (18-24 months for FBI)
Polygraph (FBI requires it; varies by agency)
Drug testing and medical screening

Hiring timelines are 12-24 months for FBI. Other agencies (DEA, ATF, HSI) are typically 9-15 months.

Federal benefits are excellent: pension after 20 years, TSP matching, health insurance, job security.

Best for: 0231s who want to apply intelligence analysis to law enforcement missions with federal benefits and job security.

Defense and security think tanks

Civilian job titles:

Research analyst
Defense analyst
Geopolitical analyst
Junior fellow
Policy analyst

Salary ranges:

Junior researcher: $55,000-$70,000
Research analyst: $70,000-$90,000
Senior fellow/analyst: $90,000-$120,000

Top employers:

RAND Corporation (defense research)
Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS)
Institute for the Study of War (ISW)
Atlantic Council
American Enterprise Institute (AEI)
Brookings Institution

What translates directly:

Intelligence analysis and research
Report writing
Regional expertise
Threat assessment
Understanding military operations

Certifications needed:

Bachelor's degree (required)
Master's degree (often required; PhD preferred for senior roles)
Clearance (helpful but not always required)

This path typically requires graduate education. Use your GI Bill for a master's in international relations, security studies, or regional studies.

Best for: 0231s who enjoy research and writing, want policy influence, and are willing to pursue graduate education for less pay but more intellectual engagement.

Skills translation table (for your resume)

Stop writing "0231 Intelligence Specialist" on civilian resumes. Translate it:

Military Skill	Civilian Translation
0231 Intelligence specialist	All-source intelligence analyst; threat intelligence analyst
All-source intelligence analysis	Multi-source intelligence fusion and analysis (HUMINT, SIGINT, IMINT, OSINT)
Intelligence preparation of battlespace	Threat assessment and intelligence support to operational planning
Briefed commanders on threats	Presented intelligence assessments to senior leadership and decision-makers
Produced intelligence summaries	Authored intelligence reports and analytical products supporting operations
Pattern-of-life analysis	Analyzed behavioral patterns and threat indicators through data analysis
Target development	Identified and assessed priority targets through intelligence analysis
TS/SCI clearance	Active Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information clearance
Intelligence databases (DCGS, M3)	Managed intelligence systems and databases for analytical production
Shift work in operations center	24/7 operational support; provided time-sensitive intelligence analysis

Resume writing tips for 0231s:

Lead with clearance: "TS/SCI cleared Intelligence Analyst with 5+ years all-source analytical experience"
Quantify production: "Produced 300+ intelligence reports supporting combat operations"
Emphasize results: "Intelligence analysis directly enabled 75+ successful targeting operations"
Highlight multi-source fusion: "Integrated SIGINT, IMINT, and HUMINT to produce comprehensive threat assessments"
Translate systems: Don't just write "DCGS"—explain "intelligence analysis systems and databases"

Certifications that actually matter for 0231s

Here's what's worth pursuing:

Critical priority:

Medium priority:

GIAC certifications (for cyber threat intelligence) - If pivoting to cyber threat intelligence: GCIA, GCTI. Cost: $2,000-3,000 per cert. Value: Opens $90K-130K cyber threat intel positions.

Project Management Professional (PMP) - For intelligence program management roles. Requires 3 years experience. Cost: $500-1,000 exam. Value: Opens $120K-165K program manager roles.

Low priority:

OSINT certifications - Various OSINT training courses exist. Helpful for private sector roles but not critical. Value: Marginal; focus on proven experience instead.

The skills gap (what you need to learn)

Let's be honest about civilian intelligence work versus military:

Technology literacy: Basic IT skills are assumed—Microsoft Office, Excel, SharePoint, Slack, Zoom, email. If you're weak on commercial tech, take free online courses.

Real 0231 success stories

Jason, 26, former 0231 E-5 → Booz Allen Hamilton intelligence analyst

Maria, 28, former 0231 E-6 → NGA intelligence analyst (GS-12)

David, 27, former 0231 E-4 → Microsoft threat intelligence analyst

Sarah, 29, former 0231 E-5 → FBI Intelligence Analyst

Action plan: Your first 90 days out

Month 1: Foundation and assessment

Week 1-2:
- Verify clearance status (contact S-2; check DISS)
- Get 10 certified copies of DD-214
- Apply for VA benefits if eligible
- Create professional email (firstname.lastname@gmail.com)
- Set up LinkedIn with professional photo
Week 3-4:
- Update resume using civilian terminology (reference translation table)
- Register on ClearanceJobs.com (primary job board for cleared intelligence work)
- Create USAJOBS account (for federal positions)
- Research 5 target companies/agencies (Booz Allen, CACI, Leidos, DIA, NGA)
- Join intelligence professional groups on LinkedIn

Month 2: Applications and networking

Week 5-6:
- Apply to 20+ positions (contractors, federal agencies, private sector)
- Tailor resume for each application (emphasize relevant experience)
- Connect with 25+ intelligence professionals on LinkedIn
- Contact defense contractor recruiters directly (they're actively recruiting)
- Attend virtual veteran hiring events
Week 7-8:
- Continue applications (15+ per week)
- If no degree: Enroll in bachelor's program using GI Bill
- Get Security+ certification (2-4 weeks study, $400 exam)
- Practice explaining intelligence work in unclassified terms
- Prepare interview stories using STAR method

Month 3: Interviews and decision-making

Week 9-10:
- Interview phase (contractors move fastest, federal agencies slowest)
- Get professional interview outfit
- Research company contracts and mission areas before interviews
- Prepare portfolio: resume, reference list, sanitized work examples
- Ask intelligent questions about clearance, team, mission, growth
Week 11-12:
- Evaluate offers (consider salary, clearance, location, mission, benefits)
- Negotiate salary (clearance gives you leverage)
- Consider taking contractor role while waiting for federal agency hiring (12-24 months)
- Accept offer and begin transition process
- Plan relocation if necessary

Bottom line for 0231 Intelligence Specialists

Your clearance is currency—worth $20K-35K in immediate salary value. Maintain it if possible.

First-year civilian income of $70K-95K is realistic for 0231s with clearances. Within 5 years, $100K-130K+ is achievable through strategic moves and skill development.

Thousands of military intelligence analysts have successfully transitioned before you. The demand is strong. The opportunities are real. The path is clear.

Execute your transition with the same analytical rigor you brought to intelligence operations. Research targets, apply strategically, network effectively, and stay focused.

Semper Fi, and good luck in your next mission.

Ready to transition your intelligence career? Use the career planning tools at Military Transition Toolkit to research intelligence positions, track applications, and plan your career path.