IT careers in military contracting

I'm considering a career in IT and have heard there are contracting opportunities with the military. What are these jobs like, and how would I go about finding and applying for them?

When it comes to contracting opportunities with the military in IT, it's important to note that these roles can be quite diverse. You could find yourself working on a range of tasks from developing secure communication systems to maintaining large data networks, to cybersecurity, to the implementation of new technology systems. What's common across all these opportunities is the necessity to be highly proficient in current technology trends, to work well under pressure, and to maintain the highest level of security and confidentiality.

The atmosphere in such jobs can be quite different from that of commercial or private sector IT jobs. Often, you'll find the environment to be more formal and hierarchical, given the military context. Another thing to be aware of is the need to frequently meet precise specifications and regulations. While they offer a lot of stability and typically come with good benefits, these roles can also come with a certain degree of stress, given the high-stakes nature of many military projects.

To find and apply for these jobs, the first place to start would be on the websites of the different branches of the military and Department of Defense. For example, the Army Contracting Command and Defense Finance and Accounting Service often have job postings. You may also look at private military contractors like Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, or General Dynamics for job listings as they regularly contract with the U.S. military.

Most jobs will use the standard application process involving submission of resume, cover letter, and sometimes, answers to specific questions. Note, you’ll likely need to pass a background check and for certain positions, you may need security clearance which could be a lengthy process.

Consider networking with current or past military contractors to get tips and learn more about what the job entails. Professional networking sites or industry-specific forums may be a good place to find such connections.

Remember, having relevant certifications and continuous training is beneficial in this field. It would help you stay up-to-date with recent developments, making you more competitive for these roles. Some of the common certifications required for IT roles in military contracting can include CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional), CompTIA Security+, or Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) amongst others. Always ensure that you carefully review the job listing to know the exact requirements.

Overall, these jobs can provide a steady career with opportunities to work on some of the most sophisticated technology systems, but they can also be challenging and demanding. It’s always recommended to do your research and understand the role thoroughly before applying.