How to obtain Security clearance?

[sooty99]

How does one obtain SC clearance? Can one apply before getting a contract, to make more jobs available?

[The Lone Gunman]

How does one obtain SC clearance? Can one apply before getting a contract, to make more jobs available?

Try doing a search in other threads. Try visiting the DVA web site.

[malvolio]

How does one obtain SC clearance?

Simple. Get a contract that requires you to have it.

[PAH]

Simple. Get a contract that requires you to have it.

But be prepared to wait 4-6 weeks for clearance before you can actually start the contract. This depends on the client, some government places let you start whilst the security vetting goes through, some won't let you near them.

[MB99]

And the rest ...

Sad fact but because of the world we live in takes more like 3 -4 months

[PAH]

Sad fact but because of the world we live in takes more like 3 -4 months

Maybe I should have asked for a retainer whilst I'm sat at home twiddling my thumbs. They don't know I've nothing else lined up so far.

[MB99]

Assuming it goes through OK!

That assumes that it goes through OK, not all do!

[Gary_Jones]

... must.... learn... to .... post

[Gary_Jones]

I'm pretty sure that unless it's an MOD position, it is ILLEGAL for people to require this.

I've seen it plastered all over recruitment sites, but they really aren't allowed to do this. As Mal says (guru that he is) if a position requires it (and is a genuine gvt position) then they will vet you as part of the application process.

If you see a job advertised that's non government and requires SC, with a "immediate start" you can bet your bottom dollar they are just jumping on the SC bandwagon.

[PAH]

That assumes that it goes through OK, not all do!

True. Fortunately the only bad mark they'll find is one speeding offence. I almost didn't to put it on the forms, thinking it's not a proper criminal conviction (didn't physically go to court etc), until I got to the third set of forms where they want to know everything except parking tickets. So declared it on both forms to be on the safe side and consistent.

At the interview they admitted they lose a lot of applicants due to the delay, as they often find work elsewhere. Not sure that's still the case in the current climate. I suppose I'll find out in the coming weeks, or months!