Thoughts on Job Requiring Security Clearance

Quote from newguy302 : Does the inability to talk specifically about previous work experience cause any issues in future job interviews, or does talking in general terms normally work fine?

So you're already talking about leaving the job before you even get hired? Sounds like you really do find it a good fit for you.

And this isn't a financial question btw.

You can always talk about the skills you used just not the project. In reality when your describing something in a interview theres only a few nouns adjectives you would have to leave out. Take the job your most interested in, in the long run you will be much better off.

Quote from newguy302 : My understanding is that projects are worked on in teams behind closed doors, and you can't bring your phone in, etc. Is internet usage normally blocked too? Does the inability to talk specifically about previous work experience cause any issues in future job interviews, or does talking in general terms normally work fine?

Every company is different, but I believe the logic behind "no phone" is so they don't have to deal with cameras and recording devices. I would be surprised if internet access was blocked.

Don't worry about future job issues. You can talk about skills, accomplishments, tasks, etc. without actually naming specific products.

You won't be able to use a phone/out side internet if you work in a SCIF, not all cleared work is required to work in one. For example, my agency requires a TS, but I have a high side computer which is its own network and a low side computer (which I'm posting on now).

I've had no problem and I've switched jobs multiple times. Believe me, having that clearance on your resume will get you a lot of calls.

I'd be more concerned about the fiscal cliff right now.

Depends on the job, but you can bring your phone to work. You may have to leave it outside the room during meetings. You'll also likely have a secured computer (with only secure intranet access) and an unsecured computer (with internet access, and unsecure intranet access). Whether they monitor, filter, or block any of that internet traffic is company-specific.

Take the job you want. Having a security clearance definitely helps out, and you won't run into any issues explaining your roles, responsibilities, and skills to potential employers in the future. Just have to keep some issues non-specific.

My friend works in aerospace defense industry. His building has all cell signals blocked. Doesnt mean he cant bring it in with him, it just means he cant get any reception or internet.

I guess you can call your phone a watch.

Quote from newguy302 : My understanding is that projects are worked on in teams behind closed doors, and you can't bring your phone in, etc. Is internet usage normally blocked too? Does the inability to talk specifically about previous work experience cause any issues in future job interviews, or does talking in general terms normally work fine?

As somebody with a clearance hopefully I can help.

It really depends on what systems you will be working with. There is high and low sides. I have worked a few different jobs and all of them I have to either leave my phone in my car or there is lockers when you first come into the buildings. I know somebody else on base that CAN bring it in and leave it at his desk, but in his building there is NO HIGH SIDE PCs. In whatever buildings there is "Secret/Top" stuff you cannot have your phone inside. Some sites are blocked depending on what branch your contract is with. When I was with airforce I could access quite a bit besides games etc, but Facebook, Youtube all worked fine. Now with the Army side of it I cannot access Youtube or any social network, they are a lot more strict.

Quote from nizzy1115 : So you're already talking about leaving the job before you even get hired? Sounds like you really do find it a good fit for you. And this isn't a financial question btw.

I have no plans to change jobs, but I'd be naive to assume that I am guaranteed to work for this company for the next 40-50 years... I'm trying to look out for my long term future.

I'm actually really excited about this job, it seems the most interesting to me, and as a bonus it offers the higher salary of my 2 offers.

Quote from moey : You can always talk about the skills you used just not the project. In reality when your describing something in a interview theres only a few nouns adjectives you would have to leave out. Take the job your most interested in, in the long run you will be much better off.

That's what I kind of figured, but I just wanted some reassurance.

Quote from zzyzzx : I'd be more concerned about the fiscal cliff right now.

The company indicated that they don't expect much impact from the cuts due to the field of work they are in (it's growing), and the fact that they work on smallish projects that are less likely to be impacted.


Thanks for all the replies!

when you leave write a book

http://www.washingtontimes.com/ne.../?page=all

security clearance is a golden ticket for a job. if the company gets you your clearance for free, you now have access to jobs that the majority of american's don't.

i was cleared to work in a customs office,i was illegal,

Quote from nizzy1115 : So you're already talking about leaving the job before you even get hired? Sounds like you really do find it a good fit for you. And this isn't a financial question btw.

Who the hell goes into a job thinking they will be there the rest of their lives? Hardly anyone.