What is a cryptologist and how to become one

Key steps to become a cryptologist

1. Explore cryptologist education requirements

   Most common cryptologist degrees

   Bachelor's

   47.5 %

   Associate

   25.0 %

   High School Diploma

   17.5 %

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2. Start to develop specific cryptologist skills

   Skills	Percentages
   Top Security Clearance	51.34%
   National Security	26.54%
   TS/SCI	22.12%

3. Complete relevant cryptologist training and internships

   Accountants spend an average of 6-12 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New cryptologists learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as a cryptologist based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real cryptologist resumes.

4. Research cryptologist duties and responsibilities

   • Perform signal analysis on various types of radio communications while accomplishing classify NSA assist tasks.
   • Sole admin for a 5 rack UNIX base signal collections system (BGPHES).
   • Operate UNIX base, automate message handling system, processing over 100K time sensitive messages per day.
   • Have been responsible for or assist with the preparation and submitting of clearance paperwork to NSA for clearance processing.

5. Apply for cryptologist jobs

   Now it's time to start searching for a cryptologist job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:

   1. Browse job boards for relevant postings
   2. Consult your professional network
   3. Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
   4. Watch out for job scams