Multidisciplinary Print Production Specialist Undergraduate Internship (Rolling Intake)

About Central Intelligence Agency

The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) is a U.S. government agency that provides objective intelligence on foreign countries and global issues to the president, the National Security Council, and other policymakers to help them make national security decisions.

Your role

About the job:

As a Multi-Disciplinary Print Production Specialist Undergraduate Intern for CIA, you will work for Imaging & Publishing Support (IPS) within the Office of Enterprise Services (OES). IPS is the premier print production facility of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) and the Intelligence Community (IC). You will work alongside subject matter experts to learn the publishing field basics, including prepress, press, bindery, large format print, and digital printing within a singular progressive skill and competency-based system. At this level, Specialists typically perform a variety of entry-level/apprentice responsibilities through a monthly rotation and all work is performed under close supervision. The occupation is highly diverse, and the duties and responsibilities described below can vary depending upon assignment and the requirements of specific projects during your tour of duty.

Additional Summary:

• Prepress: Learn the fundamentals of the FUJI XMF and Windows Operating Systems within the prepress network to facilitate the customers’ requirements in the print production system.
• Press: Assist in the operation of the large format computer-controlled conventional offset printing press. Operations include paper stock handling, production make-ready, maintaining ink densities and registration,  press wash-up, and regular maintenance.
• Bindery: Learn the basic operations of the paper cutter, folders, saddle-stitch machine, and other related equipment. Incumbents will also learn basic dissemination skills when handling classified materials.
• Digital Print Technician: Learn the operation of large high-speed digital production equipment to produce intelligence reports, manuals, maps, and other operational support publications. Incumbents will also learn basic digital binding techniques. 
• Large Format Print: Learn to create large format maps, charts, and mounted posters while operating several large format production plotters in support of the operational mission.

Specialists will perform duties within a team environment. Some occupations require physical exertion, such as long periods of standing; recurring bending, crouching, or stretching; and recurring lifting of moderately heavy equipment and materials. Some functions are performed within a noisy environment, with possible contact with unpleasant odors from chemicals, solvents, and cleaning solutions. Overtime may be necessary, depending on workload and project requirements.

Training & development

CIA offers several programs for students considering a career in the intelligence field. Each program offers valuable educational and practical work experience that enhances the students chosen field of study and prepares them for the future. 

Salary & benefits

The salary for this position ranges from $50,018 - $52,877 annually.

The CIA offers various benefits to students, including:

• Paid time off
• Education and training
• Health services
• Child care center
• Credit union

Career progression

CIA's student programs are outstanding opportunities for current and future undergraduate and graduate students to attain real-world experience while preparing for possible long-term employment at the CIA after graduation. Additionally, the CIA provides undergraduate and graduate scholarship opportunities for qualified students.

Work-life balance

In the realm of intern work-life balance, you'll enjoy flexible schedules, ample time off, and comprehensive healthcare benefits. CIA shows its commitment by providing fitness facilities and agency resource groups. This is designed to acknowledge and appreciate your commitment and contributions to the CIA's mission. 

Culture & vibe

CIA brings the best of who they are to protect the national interests. To uphold this extraordinary responsibility, they strive to maintain a diverse, fair, and accessible workplace where all voices are heard, respected, and valued. CIA offers a unique environment to work with smart, focused people who have a broad range of backgrounds, interests, experiences, and perspectives. The culture promotes learning, teamwork, and active involvement in advancing the intelligence community.

About you

Minimum Qualifications:

• Experience working within a copier/print production environment
• Academic studies in graphic technology
• Two 90-day tours are preferred; however, one 90-day tour is the minimum requirement
• Ability to meet the minimum requirements for joining the CIA, including U.S. citizenship and a background investigation.

Desired Qualifications:

• A strong desire to learn new skills and a willingness to develop themselves across a wide variety of specialized publishing operations.
• A basic knowledge of computer operating systems and programs such as Windows, Adobe, and InDesign.
• Ability to read and interpret work orders while taking directions from Subject Matter Experts.
• Ability to work independently as instructed after obtaining the proper training as production dictates.
• Ability to perform duties in a team environment while effectively communicating with other team members.
• Ability to convey technical information through effective communication techniques, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to work under tight deadlines and follow specific detailed instructions.

Agency-wide Requirements:

All applicants must be:

• U.S. citizens (dual U.S. citizens also eligible).
• At least 18 years of age.
• Willing to move to the Washington, DC area.
• Able to complete security and medical evaluations.
• Registered for the Selective Service.

How to apply

To apply for this position, click the "Apply on employer site" button below, which navigates you to the careers page where the application can be submitted directly.

Sources

The following sources were used in researching this page:

• cia.gov/careers/jobs
• youtube.com