Federal
Polygraph Examiner
Central Intelligence Agency · Other Agencies and Independent Organizations
About This Position
Polygraph Examiners assess the credibility of individuals as part of the personnel security process, determine eligibility for access to classified information, and interpret physiological data.
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications Interested candidates should be passionate about the ideals of our American republic, committed to upholding the rule of law and the U.S. Constitution, and committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government. Hiring decisions will not be based on race, sex, color, religion, or national origin. Excellent verbal and written communication skills Analytic skills Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to interact with a broad cross-section of society, sometimes under stressful conditions Ability to work both independently and in a team environment Confidence to have your work scrutinized and the grace to accept feedback High levels of trustworthiness, tenacity, professional and personal integrity, and loyalty to the United States Ability to meet the minimum requirements for joining CIA, including U.S. citizenship and a background investigation Desired Qualifications Professional experience or training/certification in interviewing, investigation or elicitation Ability to "think on your feet" and adapt in a fast-paced environment Current or previously qualified federal polygraph examiner certification Knowledge of counterintelligence arena Experience working with Security Executive Agent Directive 4 (SEAD 4).
Major Duties
As a Polygraph Examiner for CIA, you will assess the credibility of individuals in support of CIA's mission. Your career at CIA as a Polygraph Examiner begins with a four-year tour of duty primarily located in the Washington, DC metropolitan area. You must be a federally certified polygraph examiner or be willing and able to complete CIA's Polygraph Examiner Program which provides training and certification to meet this requirement. Upon successful completion of the federal Polygraph Examiner Program, you will receive Polygraph Premium Pay, a significant addition to your base salary. After your initial four-year tour, you may express interest for additional polygraph tours to hone your expertise or seek new skills through other opportunities in the Office of Security. Polygraph examiners typically conduct two polygraph sessions per day and must work an alternate work schedule comprised of one week of 9-hour days and a second week with three 9- hour days, an 8-hour day, and Friday of that week off. This is known as a 5/4-9 schedule and results in a three-day weekend every other week. This schedule can make for a fast paced, demanding, and, at times, unrelenting job, but the challenge is worth it. Domestic and foreign travel opportunities may be available after a proven record of performance.
Education
Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution (applicants within one year of earning a four-year degree will be considered); there is no preferred major or program of study (degrees from foreign academic institutions are accepted, but you are responsible for obtaining and providing CIA with a credential evaluation from an accredited firm confirming that the foreign degree is the equivalent of a BA/BS and/or MA/MS degree conferred by a U.S. college or university). At least a 3.0 GPA on a 4-point scale is preferred
How You Will Be Evaluated
For more information, please visit: https://www.cia.gov/careers/.
How to Apply
This post is for viewing purposes only. To get started, please visit https://www.cia.gov/careers/, where you can read more about this position and express your interest in up to four jobs. Upon expressing your interest, you will be taken to MyLINK, which allows you to submit your resume and job rankings and provide basic information about yourself.
Required Documents
For further information, please visit: https://www.cia.gov/careers/.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the salary for the Polygraph Examiner position at Central Intelligence Agency?
The salary range for this position is $70,506 - $131,826/yr. This is a GS-7/12 position on the General Schedule pay scale. Actual pay may vary based on locality adjustments.
Where is the Polygraph Examiner job located?
This position is located in Washington, District of Columbia. This is an on-site position.
What qualifications do I need?
Minimum Qualifications Interested candidates should be passionate about the ideals of our American republic, committed to upholding the rule of law and the U.S. Constitution, and committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government. Hiring decisions will not be based on race, sex, color, religion, or national origin. Excellent verbal ...
How do I apply for this position?
Apply through USAJobs.gov by clicking the 'Apply on USAJobs' button. You'll need a USAJobs account, a federal-style resume, and supporting documents. The deadline is Sep 30, 2026.
Is a security clearance required?
Yes, a Sensitive Compartmented Information clearance is required.
What does GS-7/12 mean?
GS-7/12 refers to the General Schedule grade level. Higher grades require more experience and offer higher pay. Visit our GS Pay Scale page for full salary tables by grade and locality.
What benefits do federal employees receive?
Federal employees receive comprehensive benefits including health insurance (FEHB), retirement through FERS, Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching, paid annual and sick leave, paid parental leave, life insurance, and student loan repayment programs.