Working for CSIS/CIA/NSA

[Asher]

I was browsing the job-postings on my University's job database, because I like to keep an eye on the kind of jobs that'll be out there for me when I graduate.

One that caught my eye was a job for the CSIS (Canadian Security Intelligence Service) in Ottawa, as a suitably vague "Computer Scientist".

I've always sworn off ever working in the public sector. But this one seems interesting.

It's almost like being a spy, except perhaps a geeky version. I'm not even sure what they really do.

It's the James Bond in me wanting to be involved with it, but I'm betting the salary is **** compared to the private sector.

Would you ever work for your government's spy agency?

[Wezil]

CSIS? Are you incompetent enough? Maybe you should warm up with the Mounties first?

[Dinner]

Probably data base management or something boring like that.

[Asher]

Originally posted by Oerdin
Probably data base management or somethen boring like that.

I'm a software engineer by trade and by heart. I'd definitely turn that down.

Though if they wanted developers to make software for data mining, that'd be interesting.

[loinburger]

Public sector salaries aren't that bad, but it's the pension that's the real benefit. Of course, as always, YMMV.

They'd have to make me an offer I couldn't refuse before I'd switch from my current job to something like the NSA or CIA or whatever -- my understanding of the situation is that it's a lot more difficult to remain shielded from the politics in the NSA/CIA than in the DOD.

[Hot Mustard]

Re: Working for CSIS/CIA/NSA

Originally posted by Asher
It's the James Bond in me wanting to be involved with it, but I'm betting the salary is **** compared to the private sector.

This is true, according to my wife's college friend who works for CSIS.

I'd never work for the gov't - then I'd feel that I couldn't complain about them.

[Dinner]

That's the big problem with the public sector. Advancement often has more to do with politics then with skill or competency.

[Kontiki]

http://www.csis-scrs.gc.ca/eng/employ/employmenu_e.html

They have current job postings including salaries.

[pchang]

Most computer programmer jobs in those agencies involves rather boring work. You have to make sure the job is in the "operations" side in order for it to be interesting.

[Fve Crathva]

CSIS had a job ad on UVic's Co-op site a couple years ago. They didn't say what is was, but one of the necessary skills was knowledge of encryption. I so would have applied, but it was for 3rd year and up, and they would brook no argument on the matter.

SP

[Zoid]

I´m sure the Iranian Space Agency would love to hire a top notch computer guy such as yourself. I´m sure they´ll pay you more than CSIS as well...

[SpencerH]

Unless you're interested in mind-numbing mediocrity and stagnating bureaucracy, avoid CSIS like the plague. NSA and CIA have other problems but are a better choice. The RCMP SS were ****pots but they were good for a laugh. Imagine guys with jackets and ties, crewcuts, and handlebar mustaches "blending in" in the 70's. Believe me, I know wherof I speak. It still makes me laugh

[Patroklos]

then I'd feel that I couldn't complain about them.

If there is anything this place proves it is that you can ***** about anything, anytime, for whatever reason, and even if people are not listening to you.

[Asher]

I don't think the NSA/CIA would allow dual citizens as members, or they'd at least make you become US-only.

[Patroklos]

Not nessecarily. Remember that Canada and the US have one of the most integrated Military and Intelligence infrustructures in the world. I would no assume you have no place there, though I am sure the more interesting and secure stuff is beyond your reach.

Your biggest hitch would be security level. Foreign nationals can join our military, but can't do anything that requires a security clearance.