How to Become a Defense Contractor

You have to be able to work through the red tape and understand government agencies to become a defense contractor. You will be able to get to the right projects, though, if you have the right qualifications and meet government standards for employees.

Things You'll Need

• Security clearance
• DUNS number

Instructions

1. Obtain a security clearance. This is most easily done with a military background. Another option is to work for a government office that requires access to restricted information. Only the U.S. government can grant the appropriate security clearance.

2. Show evidence that you previously worked with secret documents and can observe confidentiality at all costs. Demonstrate proof that you can work on a need-to-know basis. Gather this information ahead of time to make the application process go smoothly.

3. Keep current on educational courses relating to defense contracting. Find sources of information on the Central Contractor Registration government website and fill out an application. A military or government background gets you in the door when lucrative defense contracts become available.

4. Maintain a spotless record. All of your past job-related information comes to the forefront when you apply to be a government defense contractor.

5. Visit websites and read publications that pertain to government contracting. Upcoming needs must go through the bidding process.

6. Acquire a DUNS number. This unique, nine-digit number is necessary in all contractor negotiations with the government. Make an application to Dun and Bradstreet for the DUNS number.

7. Fill out the appropriate application, submit it and wait to hear if you won the bid. You will be notified in a timely manner and receive your instructions, if chosen.

Tips & Warnings

• U.S. citizens are the first choice for those awarding defense contracts.

Resources

• DAU has a course available for military contractors.
• Business.gov has information for defense contractors.