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In order to qualify for a security job for a government agency at the local, state, or federal level, you have to fulfill some requirements.
Security Clearance
For most government security jobs you will need a security clearance.
There are several levels of security clearances- a fact that may seem confusing to job seekers.
These level of clearances are, from highest to lowest level, the following:
- top secret
- secret
- confidential
Not every government job requires a security clearance but government security jobs and other positions that involve confidentiality need a security clearance.
The role of this clearance is to determine if the employee is willing and capable of keeping specific information secret.
To be eligible for security clearance you must be a U.S. citizen but in some cases, exceptions may apply, if you have specific expertise that is needed at that moment.
The security clearance allows the individual who is holding it to access specific information depending on the level of clearance that is granted.
The level of clearance that is needed for each position is determined by the Bureau of Human Resources who makes this decision based on the requirements and the job description.
How To Apply For Security Clearance?
The first condition for obtaining a security clearance is to be offered a job that requires one.
Applicants cannot apply for security clearance by themselves.
The Bureau of Human Resources determines the level of security clearance that is required for that position.
After the candidate who qualifies for a specific position receives a job offer, an investigation process will begin.
In some cases, the candidate’s family and spouse may also be checked, depending on the position and the exact circumstance.
Among the factors that can lead to a denial of security clearance, we mention:
- negative foreign influence
- sexual misconduct
- criminal activity
- drug or alcohol consumption.
This investigation process can be a lengthy one, especially if there are problems with fingerprint reading or in case of an incomplete security package.
If someone is denied a security clearance, they can file an appeal, which gives them the chance to clarify the situation.
What Agencies Offer Jobs For Security Officers?
Some of the agencies that off such job opportunities are:
- Transportation Security Administration (TSA)
- The Department of Homeland Security (DHA)
- The National Security Agency (NSA)
- The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
You can find out more about the types of jobs available at each of the above agencies and the requirements by visiting their websites.