Government Contractor on Resume

Should You List government Contractor on Resume

In many professional contexts, particularly within the United States, listing experience as a government contractor on your resume can be beneficial. This is because working with the government often requires unique skills such as navigating bureaucratic processes, understanding federal regulations, and complying with specific security protocols. However, it's essential to ensure that your resume accurately reflects the nature of your role and experiences, as international standards may vary.

Why to List government Contractor on Resume

• Demonstrating Relevant Experience: If you have worked on government contracts, you have likely gained valuable experience in areas such as project management, compliance, and problem-solving. These skills are highly sought after by many employers, both in the public and private sectors.
• Highlighting Regulatory Knowledge: Government contract work often involves understanding and navigating complex regulations. Showcasing this expertise can make your resume stand out to potential employers.
• Security Clearance: If you have a security clearance as a result of your government contract work, this is an important detail to include on your resume, as it may be a requirement for certain positions.

Where to List government Contractor on Resume

You can list experience as a government contractor in several sections of your resume:

• Professional Experience: This is the most common section where you would list your past roles, including those as a government contractor. Be sure to provide a brief overview of each role, emphasizing the skills and experiences that make you stand out.
• Skills: You can include "Government Contracting" or "Federal Compliance" in your list of skills if they are relevant to the position you're applying for.
• Education: If your education played a role in preparing you for work as a government contractor, you can mention it under this section. For example, if you have a degree in Public Policy or National Security Studies, these could be valuable additions to your Education section.
• Certifications: If you hold any certifications related to government contracting (such as a Certified Federal Contract Manager), list them here.

Examples of How to List government Contractor on Resume

Example 1: Professional Experience

• Government Contractor, XYZ Corporation
• Provided project management services for a multi-million dollar federal contract, successfully completing the project under budget and ahead of schedule.
• Collaborated with government personnel to ensure compliance with federal regulations throughout the project lifecycle.

Example 2: Skills

• Skills
• Project Management
• Federal Compliance
• Government Contracting
• Microsoft Office Suite
• Agile Methodology

What's good about this example is that it clearly outlines the individual's experience and skills relevant to government contract work. The use of bullet points makes the information easy to scan.

What to Avoid While Listing government Contractor on Resume

• Vague Descriptions: Instead of saying "I worked for the government," provide specific details about your role, responsibilities, and achievements.
• Unverifiable Claims: Be careful not to exaggerate or make unverifiable claims about your experience or skills. This can raise red flags with potential employers.
• Incorrect Terminology: Make sure you use the correct terminology when discussing government contract work. For example, instead of using "government employee," say "government contractor" or "federal contractor."

How to List Research and Development Contracting on Resume

Best Practices for Listing 'Research and Development Contracting' under a Government Contractor Role

• Highlight Relevant Experience: Emphasize your experience in research and development contracting specifically within the government sector. Mention the projects you worked on, their scope, and any significant achievements or outcomes.

For example: * Worked as a Research and Development Contractor for XYZ Government Agency, where I managed projects focusing on advanced materials research with applications in the defense industry. Achieved a breakthrough in the development of a new composite material that increased the strength-to-weight ratio by 20%, leading to significant cost savings and enhanced performance.*

• Specify Government Contractor Role: Clearly state your role as a government contractor, as this is crucial context for potential employers. This helps them understand that you have experience working under government guidelines, regulations, and timelines.

For example: * As a Government Contractor, I collaborated with various government agencies to develop cutting-edge technologies, ensuring compliance with all relevant protocols and security measures.*

• Showcase Technical Skills: Detail any technical skills that are relevant to your role as a research and development contractor in the government sector. This could include programming languages, software, laboratory techniques, or specific areas of science or engineering.

For example: * Proficient in LabVIEW for data acquisition, analysis, and control systems, as well as MATLAB for mathematical modeling and simulation.*

• Emphasize Collaboration: Emphasize your ability to collaborate effectively with government teams, research institutions, and other contractors. Highlight any projects where you worked closely with multiple stakeholders to achieve a common goal.

For example: * Successfully led a multidisciplinary team of researchers from the government, academia, and industry in the development of a novel sensor technology for environmental monitoring.*

• Demonstrate Adaptability: Show that you can adapt to changing project requirements or unexpected challenges that may arise during research and development projects within the government sector.

For example: * Demonstrated adaptability by shifting project focus from radar system development to autonomous systems integration due to evolving mission requirements, ultimately delivering a successful prototype.*

Example 1: Research and Development Contracting on Government Contractor Resume

[In this section, provide a concrete example that illustrates the best practices mentioned above]

• Research and Development Contractor for Department of Defense (DoD)
  • Managed projects related to hypersonic weapons technology development
  • Collaborated with various government agencies, including NASA and DoD research labs, to advance research objectives
  • Developed technical proposals, budgets, and project plans to secure additional funding
  • Led a team of engineers and scientists in the design, testing, and refinement of hypersonic glide vehicle prototypes
  • Ensured compliance with all relevant regulations and security measures during the research process
• Skills: Python programming, CFD simulation, experimental physics, project management

Example 2: Research and Development Contracting in Government Contractor Context

[In this section, provide a second concrete example that further illustrates the best practices mentioned above]

• Government Contractor for National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
  • Worked on projects focused on advanced propulsion systems for deep space missions
  • Collaborated with NASA research teams, contractors, and subcontractors to advance propulsion technology
  • Developed technical proposals, budgets, and project plans to secure funding for continued research efforts
  • Led a team of engineers in the design, testing, and refinement of advanced propulsion system prototypes
  • Demonstrated adaptability by adapting project focus from nuclear propulsion to electric propulsion due to changing mission requirements.

How to List Infrastructure and Engineering Contracting on Resume

Best Practices:

• Highlight Relevant Projects: Include details of projects that involve infrastructure and engineering contracting, particularly those undertaken for government agencies. These could be road construction, bridge building, water supply systems, or other similar projects.

  • Example: "Completed a $50M contract with the Department of Transportation to construct a new highway interchange, overseeing all aspects from design to completion."

• Use Quantifiable Achievements: Employers appreciate concrete evidence of your capabilities. Include details such as project values, timeframes, and the number of personnel managed.

  • Example: "Led a team of 30 in a $75M infrastructure upgrade project for the Department of Defense, delivering the project 10% under budget and ahead of schedule."

• Emphasize Compliance: As a government contractor, demonstrate your understanding of compliance requirements such as safety regulations, environmental standards, and quality assurance processes.

  • Example: "Implemented OSHA-compliant safety protocols on all construction sites, resulting in a 40% reduction in workplace injuries."

• Showcase Relevant Skills: List technical skills related to infrastructure and engineering contracting such as AutoCAD, project management software, and knowledge of relevant codes and standards.

  • Example: "Proficient in AutoCAD, Revit, and other design software for creating detailed construction plans."

• Mention Certifications: If you have relevant certifications (e.g., Professional Engineer license, OSHA 30-hour certification), be sure to include them in your resume.

Example 1: Infrastructure and Engineering Contracting on Government Contractor Resume

Project Title: Highway Interchange Construction for the Department of Transportation Role: Project Manager Duration: January 20XX - December 20YY

• Led a team of 30 professionals in the construction of a new highway interchange
• Delivered the project on schedule and under budget, utilizing efficient project management techniques
• Ensured all work was compliant with relevant codes and standards, including AASHTO and local department guidelines
• Collaborated with engineers, architects, and subcontractors to resolve any issues that arose during construction

Example 2: Infrastructure and Engineering Contracting in Government Contractor Context

Project Title: Infrastructure Upgrade for the Department of Defense Role: Construction Manager Duration: March 20XX - November 20YY

• Managed a team of 50 personnel in a $75M infrastructure upgrade project for the Department of Defense
• Successfully delivered the project 10% under budget and ahead of schedule, utilizing cost-saving measures and accelerated construction techniques
• Implemented OSHA-compliant safety protocols on all construction sites, resulting in a 40% reduction in workplace injuries
• Ensured all work complied with relevant codes and standards, including MIL-STD-1522 for military construction

How to List Healthcare and Life Sciences Contracting on Resume

Best Practices:

• Highlight Relevant Experience: Start by listing your experience in healthcare and life sciences contracting specifically within the government sector. This demonstrates your expertise in this area and shows potential employers that you have worked with government regulations and procedures.

  Example: "Government Contractor with 5 years of experience in Healthcare and Life Sciences Contracting. Successfully managed multi-million dollar contracts for supply of medical equipment to federal agencies, ensuring compliance with all relevant laws and regulations."

• Detail Projects and Achievements: Quantify your achievements by detailing the projects you have worked on and their outcomes. This provides concrete evidence of your skills and capabilities.

  Example: "Led a team in negotiating and executing a $10M contract for the supply of life-saving medical devices to the Department of Defense, resulting in efficient delivery and significant cost savings."

• Emphasize Compliance Knowledge: Showcase your understanding of compliance requirements within government contracting, particularly those specific to healthcare and life sciences. This demonstrates your ability to navigate complex regulatory landscapes.

  Example: "Expertise in FAR, DFARS, and CFR regulations related to healthcare and life sciences contracting, ensuring all contracts comply with federal requirements."

• Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills: Describe situations where you overcame challenges or solved complex problems within the context of government contracting for healthcare and life sciences. This showcases your adaptability and resilience.

  Example: "Resolved a dispute with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) over a medical device contract, resulting in approval and subsequent delivery of essential equipment to military hospitals."

• Include Keywords: Use keywords such as 'government contractor', 'healthcare', 'life sciences', 'compliance', 'regulations', and specific contract-related terms related to your experiences to optimize your resume for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).

Example 1: Healthcare and Life Sciences Contracting on Government Contractor Resume

"Government Contractor specializing in Healthcare and Life Sciences Contracting with XYZ Corporation. Managed a portfolio of contracts worth over $20M, ensuring compliance with FAR, DFARS, and CFR regulations while achieving efficient delivery and significant cost savings."

Example 2: Healthcare and Life Sciences Contracting in Government Contractor Context

"Government Contractor with ABC Company. Led a team in negotiating and executing a $15M contract for the supply of medical devices to federal agencies, resolving disputes with regulatory bodies, and achieving efficient delivery and cost savings."

How to List IT and Cybersecurity Contracting on a Resume (for Government Contractors)

Best Practices for Listing IT and Cybersecurity Contracting

• Highlight Relevant Experience: Emphasize your experience in IT and cybersecurity contracting, especially if it's within the government sector. Detail the projects you've worked on, the technologies used, and the outcomes achieved.

  • Example: "Assisted in the development and implementation of a secure cloud-based solution for data storage, improving accessibility and reducing costs for our government client."

• Mention Contract Vehicles: If you have experience working with specific contract vehicles (e.g., GSA Schedule, SEWP, etc.), make sure to include these in your resume. They can demonstrate your understanding of the procurement process within the government sector.

  • Example: "Successfully utilized the SEWP V contract vehicle to provide cybersecurity services for a federal agency."

• Security Clearance Levels: If you hold a security clearance, such as TS/SCI or Secret, be sure to mention it in your resume. This can help differentiate you from other candidates who may not have the necessary clearance.

  • Example: "Currently hold a Top Secret (TS) clearance with SCI eligibility."

• Relevant Skills and Certifications: List any relevant skills or certifications, such as CISSP, CompTIA Security+, or AWS Certified Solutions Architect. These can show your expertise in the IT and cybersecurity field.

  • Example: "CISSP certified with extensive experience in network security and incident response."

• Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume for each job application to highlight the skills and experiences most relevant to the specific position and company. This can help increase your chances of being noticed by recruiters and hiring managers.

Example 1: It and Cybersecurity Contracting on a Government Contractor Resume

• Experience IT and Cybersecurity Contractor, XYZ Corporation (20XX-Present)
  • Assisted in the development and implementation of secure cloud-based solutions for government clients.
  • Utilized SEWP V contract vehicle to provide cybersecurity services for federal agencies.
  • Maintained Top Secret (TS) clearance with SCI eligibility.
  • Possess CISSP certification and extensive experience in network security and incident response.

Example 2: It and Cybersecurity Contracting in a Government Contractor Context

• Experience IT and Cybersecurity Consultant, ABC Inc. (20XX-Present)
  • Led a team in the design and implementation of a secure IT infrastructure for a government agency, resulting in improved data security and reduced costs.
  • Utilized GSA Schedule contract vehicle to provide cybersecurity services for various federal clients.
  • Held a Secret clearance level and successfully completed a TS/SCI investigation.
  • Possessed CompTIA Security+ certification and extensive experience in vulnerability assessment and penetration testing.

How to List Defense and Aerospace Contracting on Resume

Listing Defense and Aerospace Contracting experience effectively on a resume can significantly boost your chances of landing a government contractor position. Here are some best practices to follow:

1. Highlight Specific Projects and Contracts

Detail the specific projects and contracts you have worked on within the defense and aerospace industry. This could include software development for military systems, maintenance or repair of aircraft, or research and development in space technology. Providing this context will help potential employers understand the nature and complexity of your work.

Example:

• Worked as a Systems Engineer on a $10M contract with the Department of Defense, developing and implementing new software for military communication systems.

2. Use Keywords Relevant to Government Contracting

Incorporate keywords that are commonly used in government contracting job postings. This not only helps your resume get past Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) but also demonstrates to employers that you have the necessary skills and experience for a government contractor position.

Example:

• Experience working with secure data handling protocols, such as JWICS and SIPRNET, essential in government contracting.

3. Emphasize Compliance and Security Awareness

Stress your understanding of compliance requirements and your adherence to security protocols, especially those related to the handling of classified information. This is crucial for government contractor roles as they often require a high level of trust and confidentiality.

Example:

• Demonstrated commitment to maintaining a secure work environment by consistently adhering to NIST guidelines and following best practices in data security.

4. Showcase Relevant Skills and Certifications

Highlight any skills or certifications that are relevant to defense and aerospace contracting, such as CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) or ITIL (Information Technology Infrastructure Library) certification. These will help validate your expertise and increase your appeal to potential employers.

Example:

• CISSP certified, demonstrating proficiency in information security practices that are crucial in government contracting.

1. Defense and Aerospace Contracting on Government contractor Resume

Here's an example of how to integrate Defense and Aerospace Contracting experience into a resume for a government contractor position:

Work Experience

*Systems Engineer | [Company Name] | [Location] | [Employment Dates]

- Worked as a Systems Engineer on a $10M contract with the Department of Defense, developing and implementing new software for military communication systems.
- Demonstrated proficiency in handling secure data through adherence to JWICS and SIPRNET protocols.
- Consistently maintained compliance with NIST guidelines and followed best practices in data security.
- CISSP certified, validating expertise in information security practices essential for government contracting.

2. Defense and Aerospace Contracting in Government contractor Context

Here's another example, focusing on a different role within the same industry:

Work Experience

*Project Manager | [Company Name] | [Location] | [Employment Dates]

- Led a team of engineers and technicians responsible for repairing and maintaining military aircraft.
- Successfully managed a $5M contract with the Air Force, resulting in timely delivery of necessary repairs.
- Maintained a secure work environment by following strict security protocols and ensuring proper handling of classified information.
- ITIL-certified, providing experience in managing IT infrastructure and services in a government setting.