Security Clearance Careers Podcast

A former Navy sailor has pleaded guilty in federal court in Chicago to plotting to attack Naval Station Great Lakes in North Chicago, Illinois, purportedly on behalf of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).Xuanyu Harry Pang, 38, of North Chicago, Illinois, pleaded guilty to conspiring to and attempting to willfully injure and destroy national defense material, national defense premises, and national defense utilities, with the intent to injure, interfere with, and obstruct the national defense of the United States. The guilty plea was entered on Nov. 5, 2024, in U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois and ordered unsealed last week.###This podcast is brought to you by ManTech! Securing the Future of our nation requires the best minds. For decades, they have been at the forefront of cutting-edge technology, supporting critical missions in the defense, intelligence, and federal civilian sectors. If you're a cleared professional seeking a challenging and impactful career, ManTech is where you belong! Think Cyberspace Superiority, Data and AI, Digital Transformation, and Intelligent Engineering. Ready to make a real difference? Explore your opportunities at ManTech.com/careers.

Author and former CIA operative Michele Rigby Assad joins the show to discuss her book ‘Get Off the X’. It’s Assad’s second book, and shares stories from the CIA that can help you face your hurdles, find your purpose and live authentically.

While the goal for most job seekers is to capture the attention of recruiters, there are certain actions that can inadvertently lead to being overlooked or ignored. Understanding these missteps can help you avoid them and improve your chances of landing a job interview.Jill and Katie talk about some common mistakes and icky moves to avoid.

Cyber threats are evolving—and so is the demand for talent. ManTech’s Chris Cleary discusses high-impact cyber careers in national security. Learn more about ManTech here: https://www.mantech.com/ Browse current openings here: https://www.clearancejobs.com/profiles/785425/mantech-international-jobs

Working from home offers flexibility and comfort, but it can also lead to the development of certain bad habits that hinder productivity and well-being. Here are some common habits you might want to consider breaking to improve your work-from-home experience.

Former Army Public Affairs Officer and ClearanceJobs news site contributor, Aaron Knowles, has decided to write a book on Artifical Intelligence (AI). But not on the usual AI mantra. His book highlights the good tools, the scary ones that are a backdoor for China to surveil your phone data, and when to ethically implement AI, and maybe where to hold off.He joins me the podcast to dish about his inspirations behind the book after he transitioned from the US Army, what tactical tips readers can take away, and if AI actually wrote some of the book itself.

Before Elon Musk and DOGE walked into the USAID security office, one former employee and whistleblower was already calling the USAID clearance process into question.From the archives: Mark Moyar joins the show to discuss his book, which sheds light on the complex relationship between security clearance eligibility and employment decisions. The author and former political appointee explores his own challenges with the clearance process in Masters of Corruption: How the Federal Bureaucracy Sabotaged the Trump Presidency, arguing that the system was weaponized against him for his efforts to combat waste and fraud.

Tune in to this episode of ClearedCast where we have a special announcement - the ClearanceJobs Content Team has been hard at work researching and producing a new podcast that will focus on declassified programs within the Intelligence Community. Get all the details on the inspiration for the project, the research, and launch date.

Creating a job application that stands out can be a game-changer in today’s competitive job market. Here are some key steps to craft a compelling application that captures the attention of employers. 1. Understand the Job DescriptionBefore you start writing your application, thoroughly read the job description. Identify the key skills, qualifications, and experiences the employer is looking for. Highlighting these in your application will demonstrate that you are a suitable candidate.2. Customize Your ResumeTailor your resume for each job application:Highlight Relevant Experience: Focus on experiences and achievements that relate directly to the job.Use Keywords: Incorporate keywords from the job description to pass through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).Keep It Concise: Limit your resume to one or two pages, depending on your experience level.3. Write a Compelling Cover LetterA cover letter is your chance to make a personal connection:Address the Hiring Manager: If possible, find the name of the hiring manager and address your letter to them.Show Enthusiasm: Express genuine interest in the role and the company.Tell Your Story: Share a brief narrative that highlights your achievements and how they relate to the position.4. Showcase Your AccomplishmentsUse quantifiable achievements to demonstrate your impact in previous roles. For example, "Increased sales by 20% in six months" is more compelling than a generic statement like "Improved sales."5. Proofread and EditErrors can undermine your credibility:Check for Typos: Carefully proofread your application for spelling and grammatical errors.Ensure Clarity: Make sure your writing is clear and concise.Seek Feedback: Ask a trusted friend or mentor to review your application and provide feedback.6. Follow the Application InstructionsEach job application may have specific instructions. Ensure you follow them precisely to show attention to detail and respect for the employer’s process.7. Prepare for the Next StepsAfter submitting your application, be ready for potential interviews:Research the Company: Understand the company’s mission, values, and culture.Practice Common Interview Questions: Prepare answers that highlight your strengths and how they relate to the job.By following these steps, you can create a job application that effectively communicates your qualifications and enthusiasm for the role. Good luck!