What are the requirements for military contractor jobs?

I'm curious about what it takes to qualify for a military contractor position after high school. Do you need specific skills or experience? If so, what kind of training or background is typically required to get started in this field?

Depending on the specific type of military contractor job you're interested in, the requirements will vary greatly, from engineering to logistics to intelligence. Given the broad range of opportunities in the sector, I will provide a general overview of some common requirements.

Firstly, a high school diploma or equivalent is usually the minimum educational requirement for many contractor jobs. However, advanced positions may require a bachelor's or Master's degree, especially those in specialized fields like computer science, engineering, or international relations.

Next up are the skills and experiences. Again, these greatly depend on the specialized job role, but typical requirements for most positions include strong analytical and problem-solving skills, good communication skills, physical fitness, and the ability to work well in a team. Some contractual positions may require technical knowledge and skills, such as knowledge of computer systems for IT roles or knowledge of equipment operation and maintenance for logistical roles.

In terms of experience, entry-level positions typically do not require any, but other positions may demand several years of experience in related fields. For instance, a contractor tasked with systems engineering may need prior experience in an engineering firm or military tech unit, or a contractor in military intelligence might need experience analyzing intelligence data in an equivalent agency.

Perhaps one of the most crucial factors is the ability to pass a security clearance check, as this is a common requirement for any job dealing with sensitive information or high-risk operations. This involves an extensive background check that includes an examination of your financial, criminal, and in some instances, psychological history.

Lastly, training is typically provided on-the-job but gaining relevant skills prior can be helpful. For example, getting a certification in a relevant area such as logistics project management, or cybersecurity, could be beneficial.

Do bear in mind, though, that military contractor positions can be highly competitive, so any extra qualifications, experience, or skills that you can bring to the table will only help bolster your application. Many successful candidates often come from military backgrounds, but others have come straight from civilian roles. So it is about building a set of hard and soft skills that align with the role you're eyeing.