Clearance on Resume

Should You List Clearance on Resume

In certain industries such as government, defense, aerospace, and technology, it's essential to include your security clearance level (e.g., Top Secret, Secret, Confidential) on your resume if you have one. This information signals that you possess the required background checks to handle sensitive or classified information. However, outside of these fields, listing a clearance may not be necessary unless explicitly asked in the job description or relevant for the position.

In some countries, particularly the United States, security clearances are more common due to the extensive presence of government contractors and military-related industries. In other parts of the world, such as Europe, the need for security clearance is less prevalent but can still be important in certain roles, like those within international organizations or specific national agencies.

Why to List Clearance on Resume

Background Checks:

A clearance demonstrates that you have undergone a thorough background check and have been deemed trustworthy to handle sensitive information. This is crucial for positions that require access to classified data, intellectual property, or other confidential information.

Access to Opportunities:

Having a security clearance can open up job opportunities within certain industries and sectors. Employers may be more likely to consider your application if you already possess the necessary clearance level for their organization.

Where to List Clearance on Resume

The best place to list your clearance is under the "Professional Summary" or "Qualifications Summary" section, as it highlights relevant qualifications at the beginning of the resume. You may also choose to include it in the "Work Experience" section, particularly if a previous role required or utilized your clearance level.

If you are applying for positions within the same industry and possess multiple clearances, consider listing them under a separate "Clearances Held" section towards the end of the resume.

Examples of How to List Clearance on Resume

Example 1: Professional Summary with Clearance Mentioned

Professional Summary

• Active Top Secret (TS) security clearance
• Experienced software engineer specializing in cybersecurity solutions for government and defense contractors

In this example, the clearance level is mentioned prominently at the beginning of the summary to grab the recruiter's attention. The specificity of the clearance level also indicates a higher level of trustworthiness and security qualifications.

Example 2: Work Experience with Clearance Mentioned

Software Engineer | ACME Corporation (2018 - Present)

• Developed secure software systems for government clients under Top Secret clearance

In this example, the relevant work experience is listed along with the clearance level required to perform the job. This helps clarify that you possess the necessary security clearance and are qualified for similar roles in the future.

What to Avoid While Listing Clearance on Resume

• Inaccuracies: Only include clearances that you have been granted and have not expired or been revoked. Providing false information can lead to disqualification from job opportunities or even legal consequences.
• Vague Language: Be specific about the type of clearance you hold, such as Top Secret, Secret, or Confidential, rather than using generic terms like "Security Clearance."
• Unnecessary Details: Avoid sharing any sensitive or classified information that is not required for the job application. Only include details necessary to verify your clearance level and eligibility for future roles in the same field.

How to List Dod (department of Defense) Clearance on Resume

Best Practices for Listing DoD Clearance on a Resume

• Specify the Type and Level of Clearance: Clearly state the type of clearance (DoD, TS/SCI, etc.) and its level (Confidential, Secret, Top Secret, etc.). This is crucial as it helps potential employers quickly understand your security clearance status.

  • DoD Clearance: Top Secret / SCI (TS/SCI)

• Location of the Clearance Statement: Place the clearance information in a prominent section of your resume, often at the top or bottom of the Summary/Objective section, or within the Experience section if relevant to the job position.

  Summary: Experienced DoD Contractor with Top Secret / SCI clearance. Proven track record in project management and team leadership.

• Include Relevant Dates: Provide the dates when you were granted or lost the clearance, if applicable. This helps employers understand your current status and any potential gaps.

  • DoD Clearance: Top Secret / SCI (TS/SCI) - Granted in 2018, Currently Active

• Highlight Relevant Experience: If you have previous experience related to the clearance process or specific projects under your clearance, be sure to highlight this experience in your resume.

  • DoD Contractor (2015-Present): Led a team of engineers on a Top Secret project for the National Security Agency. Successfully completed multiple projects and received recognition for outstanding performance.

Example 1: Dod (department of Defense) Clearance on Clearance Resume

John Doe Top Secret / SCI DoD Clearance - Granted in 2018, Currently Active johndoe@email.com | (555) 555-1234 | LinkedIn: john-doe

Summary: Experienced DoD Contractor with Top Secret / SCI clearance. Proven track record in project management and team leadership, with a focus on secure software development for defense projects. Seeking new opportunities to contribute to national security initiatives.

Example 2: Dod (department of Defense) Clearance in Clearance Context

Jane Smith DoD Clearance: Top Secret / SCI - Granted in 2016, Currently Active janesmith@email.com | (555) 555-4321 | LinkedIn: jane-smith

Summary: Results-driven DoD Contractor with over 10 years of experience in cybersecurity and information assurance. Top Secret / SCI clearance, with a proven ability to adapt to rapidly changing environments and deliver high-quality work under tight deadlines. Seeking challenging opportunities within the defense sector.

Experience:

• DoD Contractor (2015-Present): Led cybersecurity teams in protecting critical infrastructure against advanced threats. Successfully implemented multiple security measures and protocols, resulting in zero security breaches.

How to List Fbi Clearance on Resume

Best Practices for Listing FBI Clearance:

• Clearly Identify the Type of Clearance: Mention that it's an FBI Clearance specifically, as there are different types of clearances. This helps recruiters quickly understand your security background.

  • Example: FBI Security Clearance (Active TS/SCI)

• State the Status: Include the current status of your clearance. This is crucial because an active clearance may be a deal-breaker for some positions.

  • Example: Active FBI Top Secret (TS) / Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) Clearance

• Specify the Issuing Agency: Mention that the clearance was issued by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). This clarifies any potential confusion with other types of security clearances.

  • Example: Issued by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

• Highlight Relevant Dates: Provide the dates when your clearance was initiated, renewed, or will expire, if applicable. This helps employers understand the longevity and reliability of your clearance.

  • Example: Initiated on [Date], Renewed on [Date]

• Describe the Process: Briefly explain how you obtained the clearance to demonstrate your trustworthiness and understanding of the process. This can help employers understand your dedication and responsibility.

  • Example: Obtained FBI Top Secret (TS) / Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) Clearance through a thorough background check and adjudication process

Example 1: Fbi Clearance on Clearance Resume

In the Professional Summary or Qualifications section, incorporate your FBI clearance information:

• Current holder of an Active FBI Top Secret / Sensitive Compartmented Information (TS/SCI) Clearance, issued by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Initiated on [Date], Renewed on [Date].

Example 2: Fbi Clearance in Clearance Context

In the Work Experience section, provide more context about your FBI clearance:

• Analyst, National Security Agency (NSA) - [Location] - [Employment Dates]
  • Worked on projects requiring an active TS/SCI clearance. Maintained strict adherence to security protocols and procedures.

How to List Background Check Clearance on Resume

Best Practices:

• Highlight the Relevant Information: Clearly indicate that you have undergone a background check clearance process. Mention the type of clearance (e.g., National Security Clearance, Federal Background Investigation) to provide context.

  • Example: National Security Clearance: Successfully completed a Top Secret/SCI (Sensitive Compartmented Information) investigation

• Detail the Process: Briefly describe the process you underwent for the background check clearance, focusing on any unique or challenging aspects that demonstrate your ability to handle sensitive information.

  • Example: Completed a rigorous Federal Background Investigation, involving comprehensive interviews, background checks, and a polygraph exam

• Date and Status: Include the date you received the clearance (if applicable) and its current status (e.g., Active, Current, Valid until MM/YYYY). This information helps potential employers understand whether the clearance is still valid for their needs.

  • Example: Top Secret/SCI Clearance, Active until June 2025

• Relevant Keywords: Use industry-specific keywords related to background checks and clearances to make your resume easily searchable by Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and recruiters.

  • Example: FBI Background Check, Department of Defense Clearance, Secret Clearance, TS/SCI Clearance

Example 1: Background Check Clearance on Clearance Resume

In a resume for a position in the intelligence community, the candidate might present their background check clearance as follows:

• National Security Clearance: Successfully completed a Top Secret/SCI (Sensitive Compartmented Information) investigation. Top Secret/SCI Clearance, Active until June 2025. Extensive experience with FBI Background Checks and Department of Defense Clearances.

Example 2: Background Check Clearance in Clearance Context

For a position requiring a federal background check, a candidate could present their background check clearance as follows:

• Federal Background Investigation: Completed a rigorous background check involving comprehensive interviews, background checks, and a polygraph exam. Successfully obtained and currently maintain a Secret Clearance. Previous experience includes working with Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) under National Security Clearances.

How to List Government Clearance on Resume

Listing your government clearance on a resume requires careful consideration to ensure it stands out while providing relevant information to potential employers. Here are some best practices:

• Highlight the Clearance Level: Clearly indicate the level of clearance you hold, such as Top Secret or Secret, and any specific compartments associated with your clearance. For example:

  • Top Secret (TS) / Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI)

• Mention the Agency: List the government agency that issued the clearance, if applicable. This provides context about the nature of the background check performed. Example:

  • National Security Agency (NSA)

• Provide Relevancy: Explain why your clearance is relevant to the position you are applying for. Discuss how your clearance enables you to handle sensitive or classified information, if applicable. Example:

  • My TS/SCI clearance allows me to manage and analyze highly sensitive data, a critical requirement for this cybersecurity position.

• Date of Issuance and Renewal: Include the date your clearance was issued and any subsequent renewal dates. This demonstrates your commitment to maintaining your clearance status and can instill trust in potential employers. Example:

  • Issued: January 1, 2018; Renewed: January 1, 2023

• Limit Details: Be mindful of providing too much sensitive information about your clearance. Keep the focus on how your clearance and relevant experience make you a strong candidate for the position.

Example 1: Government Clearance on Clearance Resume

In a resume for a national security analyst role, list the clearance as follows:

• Top Secret (TS)/Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI), National Security Agency (NSA)
• Issued: January 1, 2018; Renewed: January 1, 2023
• My TS/SCI clearance enables me to manage and analyze highly sensitive data, making me an ideal candidate for this national security analyst position.

Example 2: Government Clearance in Clearance Context

For a cybersecurity consultant role that requires a Top Secret clearance, list the clearance as follows:

• Top Secret (TS), Department of Defense
• Issued: January 1, 2018; Renewed: January 1, 2023
• My TS clearance allows me to manage and analyze classified data related to cybersecurity threats, ensuring I can deliver effective solutions for this role.

How to List Security Clearance on Resume

Listing your security clearance on a resume is crucial when applying for positions that require such clearance. Here are some best practices:

1. Highlight the Clearance Type

• Clearly indicate the type of security clearance you possess, such as Top Secret, Secret, or Confidential. This helps potential employers quickly understand your eligibility for sensitive positions.
• Example: Top Secret Security Clearance (TS/SCI) - Granted by [Name of Government Agency].

2. Mention Renewal Dates (if applicable)

• If your clearance has an expiration date or is subject to periodic review, include this information to demonstrate your commitment and reliability.
• Example: Top Secret Security Clearance with a renewal date of [Month/Year] - Granted by [Name of Government Agency].

3. Emphasize Eligibility for Other Clearances (if applicable)

• If you are eligible for multiple clearances or your current clearance can be elevated, mention this to broaden your employment opportunities.
• Example: Eligible for Top Secret/SCI and Secret level clearances - Granted by [Name of Government Agency].

4. Include Relevant Experience

• Briefly describe any relevant experience that helped you obtain the clearance, such as handling classified information or undergoing a thorough background check.
• Example: Obtained Top Secret Security Clearance due to extensive experience in managing sensitive government projects.

5. Place it Strategically

• List your security clearance near the top of your resume if you are actively seeking positions that require such clearance.
• If you have significant work experience, consider placing the clearance in the "Skills" or "Professional Summary" section to draw attention without taking up valuable space in the work history section.

Example 1: Security Clearance on Clearance Resume

In a resume tailored for positions requiring a Top Secret clearance, you might structure it like this:

Contact Information

Top Secret Security Clearance (TS/SCI) - Granted by NSA

Professional Summary

Experienced analyst with a Top Secret clearance and expertise in [specific area of analysis]. Proven ability to handle sensitive government projects and maintain the highest levels of confidentiality.

Example 2: Security Clearance in Clearance Context

In a resume for a position that requires a Secret clearance but does not explicitly state it, you might structure it like this:

Contact Information

Skills

• Top Secret Security Clearance (TS/SCI) eligible
• Strong background in [specific area of work]
• Proficient in [relevant software or language]

Professional Experience

[Job Title, Company Name, Location, Dates of Employment]

[Job duties and accomplishments]