Analyze Job Requirements and Develop Entry-Level Assessments for Intelligence Jobs

To protect the United States from terrorist attack and to prevent such attacks, the US Intelligence Community needs human capital management processes that facilitate the selection of highly qualified Intelligence Career Service (ICS) personnel. Since the terrorist attacks on 9/11, many Intelligence Community agencies have reviewed, revised, and reorganized their intelligence workforce and human capital practices. HumRRO was hired by one agency to assist with these efforts.

HumRRO conducted an extensive job analysis study to identify the tasks performed in, and the competency requirements of, several different ICS job series in this federal government agency. In addition to conducting the job analysis study, HumRRO developed written assessments that measure cognitive and non-cognitive competencies important for performing each job. One assessment utilizes a logic-based reasoning format, a second utilizes a situational judgment format, and a third uses a self-report biodata/temperament format. We also developed measures of job performance including behaviorally-anchored performance rating scales and a job knowledge test for use in a concurrent criterion-related validation study. Validation study results will be used to ensure that the assessments are predictive of important aspects of job performance and are fair for male and female applicants and for applicants of different racial and ethnic backgrounds. Validation study data will also used to inform policy decisions on test weighting and passing scores.

The agency now has detailed job analysis information necessary to support many different human capital functions, including recruiting, selection, promotion, training, employee development, job design, and strategic planning. The agency also has the tools necessary to select individuals who will be able to perform well in these critically important jobs.