security clearance
If you're planning to work overseas in a role tied to national security, chances are you’ll need a security clearance. Whether you're a contractor, consultant, or transitioning service member, understanding this process can open doors—and boost your earning potential.
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(POC) — Obtaining a security clearance depends on their mission and role in national security, many federal agencies require security clearances. Only federal agencies can grant security clearances. Examples of agencies that may require higher levels of clearance include:
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Before private military contractors and other overseas workers confront the Iraq War, they must first emerge victorious in the Paperwork War.
After they receive provisional employment offers, which probably means they have already provided a considerable amount of background materials to their prospective employers, candidates must normally complete the Office of Personnel Management’s
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The personnel security clearance background investigation begins after an individual has been given a conditional offer of employment and has completed the appropriate security questionnaire, usually, a Standard Form 86, Questionnaire for National Security Positions, and other required forms. It is required that job candidates complete the questionnaire and other required forms thoroughly, honestly, and with candor.
Human Resources will submit the completed security questionnaire and other required forms, also known as the security package, to DS's Office of Personnel Security and Suitability.
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Overseas contracting isn’t for everyone. There are negatives to consider with the positives, and it’s important not to get overcome by romantic notions of what overseas employment might look like, or think you’re going to cash in when it’s not certain you will in combat zones. But if you have a sense of adventure, the ability to do more with less, and are up for a challenge, a job abroad may be a great fit for you.
Overseas jobs in Information Technology, Logistics, Intelligence, Training, and Security have significantly increased over the past decade, particularly in countries such as Afghanistan, Iraq, and Africa.
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When you apply for a security clearance you find the process has become a little longer than in the past. Some clearances may take up to a year or more. You may find yourself frequently asking your security officer for the status of your security clearance. And you may find yourself wondering what those statuses mean. Here are the most common security clearance statuses your security officer will see in the system of record:
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Experts project that a security clearance can increase your salary anywhere from $25,000 to $50,000, and in some cases, even more. When employers do not have to invest time and money into a background check and the paperwork that goes with that, the saved money often goes back into the employee's salary. Former military personnel who have security clearances are very appealing to employers. In addition to the thorough background check that has already been completed, these employees are disciplined, dependable, and have strong leadership skills - priceless attributes in today's market.
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A National Agency Check with Inquiries (NACI) is a background investigation primarily for government employees who will not have access to classified information. This investigation is appropriate for positions designated as public trust positions that require responsible and trustworthy employees, but with no national security impact.
The primary reason that the NACI is not an appropriate investigation for a security clearance is that a credit check is not required. When a security clearance adjudicator makes a clearance determination, the decision is based on the whole person concept as related to 13 adjudication criteria. These criteria are designed to help assess whether or not a person has demonstrated trustworthiness to protect classified information.
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Can I apply for a security clearance?
No. Applicants cannot initiate a security clearance application on their own.
Who determines whether I need a security clearance? When does this happen?
Hiring officials determine whether a position will require a security clearance based upon the duties and responsibilities of the position. If the position requires access to classified information, a background investigation must be conducted. This is done after a conditional offer of employment is given to an applicant.
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Eligibility for access to classified information, commonly known as a security clearance, is granted only to those for whom an appropriate personnel security background investigation has been completed. It must be determined that the individual’s personal and professional history indicates loyalty to the United States, the strength of character, trustworthiness, honesty, reliability, discretion, and sound judgment, as well as freedom from conflicting allegiances and potential for coercion, and a willingness and ability to abide by regulations governing the use, handling, and protection of classified information.
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Loren Thompson— The U.S. government limits access to sensitive information by granting (or denying) security clearances after conducting background investigations. The system is expensive to administer, because five million Americans hold active clearances, and over a hundred federal agencies require clearances to participate in certain aspects of their work. In addition to such well-known designations as Secret and Top Secret, there are numerous specialized types of clearances with names like Majestic, Cosmic and Ultra that require rigorous background checks.
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