How to Test for a Homeland Security Job
The Department of Homeland Security has many positions available in different sectors. Applicants do not necessarily need military or government work experience to serve their country through the Department. Positions are available throughout the United States, including Alaska, Hawaii and Puerto Rico. If you have the necessary skills and meet the application requirements, you can help secure borders, airports and other points of entry into the country.
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Things You'll Need
- Details on available job opportunities
- U.S. Citizenship
- Clean background check
- Clean drug screening
- Application for desired position
- Various documents (vary by desired position)
- Resume
Instructions
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First, you must locate the jobs available in your state or region of interest. You can find the information on the Department of Homeland Security's website, or by calling 703-724-1850. You can also find local recruiting events on the website or by telephone.
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Different positions have different requirements, although most jobs require applicants who are U.S. citizens, can pass an extensive background check and who are willing to take a drug test, proving they are do not take illegal drugs. If you are absolutely certain you meet these requirements, you can proceed to applying for jobs that suit your skills and qualifications.
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After locating a job that piques your interest, make sure you meet the qualifications. For example, if you want to apply for a position as an auto mechanic in New Jersey, you must be able to work independently, make important decisions in a timely fashion and troubleshoot and repair different automobile systems. Some of the skills required to be a worthy applicant include experience working on brake and electrical systems, engines, transmissions and exhaust systems. You do not need to have a Automotive Service Excellence certification to be a mechanic for the Department of Homeland Security in New Jersey, but you would need it to work as a mechanic in California. Be aware of the requirements because they change by location and desired position.
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You can submit an application for Homeland Security online. You will need the job announcement and control numbers. The website will walk you through the process, providing details about your application's format and what forms you must submit. Please be aware that the required forms are different for each position and that you must submit all the correct documents in order to have your application considered complete. Also, take notice of the due dates, which change by position as well. If you are a veteran, you will have to identify your status.
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During this process, the website may instruct you to create a USAJOBS member account. The benefits of this account are that you can apply for jobs online, check the status of your application and post your resume online. If you want, you can even get job updates about positions in your area of expertise.
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Once you submit an application, a supervisor may request an interview in person or by telephone. Very rarely will they hire a candidate based solely on that person's application, but it has been known to happen. Only the most qualified people will be granted interviews and you shouldn't be discouraged if you are not contacted about a single application.
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Tips & Warnings
You can apply for multiple positions and you may find your dream job. Do not be discouraged if you do not hear from a hiring supervisor immediately.
Read all job qualifications and applications carefully. Because every position is unique, you must make sure you meet all the requirements for that specific job. Make sure you meet the due dates, or the Department may reject your application without reviewing it.
References
- U.S. Department of Homeland Security: Career Opportunities
- U.S. Department of Homeland Security: How to Apply for Homeland Security Positions
- National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence
- USAJOBS, Customs & Border Protection, U.S. Department of Homeland Security: Job Title: Automotive Mechanic - Overview
- Photo Credit arrest image by Vladimir Melnik from Fotolia.com
