How to land a military contractor job?

I'm considering a career as a military contractor after high school. What steps should I take to increase my chances of landing such a job? Are there specific qualifications or experiences that would be beneficial?

Becoming a military contractor involves a few key steps, and the qualifications and experiences you need largely depend on the type of work you're interested in. However, you can take some general steps to increase your chances of landing a job in this field.

1. Understand the job scope: Military contractors, also known as defense contractors, work in various fields. Some work in security, while others may be involved in logistics, engineering, software development, and scientific research. Knowing which aspect of defense contracting interests you can help guide your education and training decisions.

2. Focus on education: Get a degree that aligns with your career goals. For example, if you're interested in engineering or IT roles, you'll need a degree in a relevant field. If you're considering a role in security or intelligence, studying criminal justice or international relations could be beneficial.

3. Gain relevant experience: Internships, part-time jobs, or volunteering in your field of interest can help you get the necessary experience. This could be in government roles, companies involved in defense, security firms, or relevant nonprofits.

4. Obtain clearances: Having a security clearance can significantly increase your chances of getting a job as a military contractor. Some roles might require a basic security clearance, while others could require a high-level clearance. Note that obtaining a security clearance can be a lengthy process involving background checks.

5. Certification and Skills: Certifying in specific skills related to your job role could add value to your profile. For example, if you are interested in IT roles, having a CompTIA Security+ or Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification could be beneficial. Similarly, for construction-based roles, having certifications in safety standards could hold value.

6. Networking: Networking in this industry is key. Joining professional organizations, attending job fairs, and defense-related events, and connecting with people already in the industry can go a long way.

7. Apply to jobs: Look for jobs that meet your skills and career goals. Websites like USAJobs and contractor-specific job boards can provide you with a variety of opportunities. Also, consider looking at specific defense contracting companies, such as Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, and Raytheon Technologies.

Remember that military contracting is a vast field with numerous types of jobs. The more specific you can be about your desired career path, the better you can tailor your preparations to fit your goals.