Things You'll Need:
- Computer
- Internet access
- Email account
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Step 1
Locate defense contractors are in your general area, or in an area you would like to relocate. You can search for contractors at specialized websites such as the Federation of American Scientists, which maintains a list of the top defense contractors. A general web search will also return results. You may need to contact companies directly to obtain their locations.
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Step 2
Check the Department of Defense website for civilian jobs. Look under the letter “C” for “Career Opportunities,” where you will find a wealth of information.
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Step 3
Obtain the paperwork that you have a security clearance, if applicable. If you served in any of the Armed Forces, obtain a valid copy of your discharge separation paper (DD214), which will show your clearance.
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Step 4
Stress that you are a veteran if you served in the Armed Forces. Note your veteran status in both your resume and cover letter. Doing so may give your resume a greater advantage. Most defense contractors get credit from the government for hiring veterans. It also is much easier to get security clearances for veterans.
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Step 5
Prepare a resume that explicitly shows how your experience is applicable to the defense industry. If you have just graduated, emphasize coursework that defense contractors may be interested in, such as science and math courses, or computer or engineering degrees.
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Step 6
Post your resume on Careerbuilder, Hotjobs and other job hunting sites. Check each site often to see who has been looking at your resume. If a company that has viewed your resume, check their website for job openings and send a resume to them directly if you find a good match.
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Step 7
Send your resume to all of the companies or government agencies you would like to work for. If they have a website, you can generally send your resume to a provided email address. MS-Word is the standard program used to create resumes.
