HUMINT
HUMINT, which stands for Human Intelligence, is a type of information gathering where people collect intelligence through face-to-face interactions and relationship building. Unlike technical methods that rely on computers or satellites, HUMINT involves personal contact and communication with human sources. This could include conducting interviews, managing relationships with informants, or gathering information through observation. It's similar to what people might think of as traditional espionage or detective work, but in a professional military or intelligence context. You might also see this referred to as "source operations" or "human source intelligence" in job descriptions.
Examples in Resumes
Led HUMINT collection operations supporting military operations in multiple regions
Conducted Human Intelligence source meetings and wrote detailed intelligence reports
Managed HUMINT source networks and coordinated with other intelligence disciplines
Provided Human Source Intelligence training to junior team members
Typical job title: "HUMINT Collectors"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find HUMINT Collectors
Professional Associations
Job Resources
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you develop and manage a source network in a new operational environment?
Expected Answer: Should explain the process of identifying potential sources, building relationships, assessing reliability, and maintaining operational security while managing multiple sources.
Q: Describe how you would integrate HUMINT operations with other intelligence collection methods.
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of how HUMINT complements other intelligence types and how to coordinate with different intelligence teams for comprehensive information gathering.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What methods do you use to verify the credibility of human sources?
Expected Answer: Should discuss various ways to cross-check information, evaluate source reliability, and validate intelligence through multiple channels.
Q: How do you maintain operational security during source meetings?
Expected Answer: Should explain basic security procedures, meeting arrangements, and how to protect both the source and the operation.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is the difference between HUMINT and other types of intelligence collection?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that HUMINT involves human interaction and relationship building, unlike technical collection methods.
Q: How do you write an intelligence report based on a source meeting?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of basic report writing, including what information to include, proper formatting, and importance of accuracy.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic source meeting procedures
- Report writing
- Operational security awareness
- Basic interviewing techniques
Mid (2-5 years)
- Source development and management
- Advanced interviewing techniques
- Cross-cultural communication
- Risk assessment and mitigation
Senior (5+ years)
- Network development and management
- Operations planning and oversight
- Team leadership and training
- Strategic intelligence collection
Red Flags to Watch For
- No security clearance or ability to obtain one
- Poor interpersonal communication skills
- Inability to maintain confidentiality
- Lack of cross-cultural awareness
- Poor report writing skills
Related Terms
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