Intelligence Analyst
Turn raw data, open-source material and reports into actionable intelligence for government or commercial clients.
This UK intelligence analyst career guide covers what the role involves day to day, typical salary at each stage, the usual entry route, the skills employers expect, and related careers worth comparing.
Quick facts
- Starting salary
- £30,000 - £35,000
- Mid-career salary
- £40,000 - £50,000
- Senior salary
- £55,000 - £75,000
- Work environment
- Office, security-cleared environments
- Time to entry
- 1 - 3 years
- Degree required
- Preferred
- Category
- Public Sector and Emergency Services
What a Intelligence Analyst does
Turn raw data, open-source material and reports into actionable intelligence for government or commercial clients.
How to become a Intelligence Analyst
- Look up Intelligence Analyst roles on LinkedIn or Indeed and read 5 real job ads
- Talk to someone already working as a Intelligence Analyst - even a 15-minute call helps
- Find one beginner course or qualification used by people in this role
- Build one small piece of evidence you've explored this (project, shadowing, short course)
- Apply to one entry-level role or related opportunity within the next month
Key skills
- Research
- Analytical writing
- OSINT tools
- Critical thinking