Security clearance assesses an individual’s suitability to work with sensitive information and safeguard national security. It is essential in any organisation which is required to comply with security procedures set by the government.
The need for security clearance is becoming more common across both the public and private sector. Organisations that have never previously required security clearance now expect a Basic Check as a minimum and Counterterrorism or Security Check to work on sensitive projects.
Gaining security clearance is not easy, it can be intrusive and can only be requested by an employer or sponsor. However, once you are security cleared, it is hugely beneficial to your career. Even if your security clearance runs out, gaining security clearance the second time around is much easier.
First in line
Security checks take several weeks and are necessary to have before an employee starts works on a project, therefore, many companies prefer to seek out candidates who are already cleared.
As demand increases, contractors who already hold security clearance are first in line for the top jobs. Being in possession of an unexpired security clearance gives you access to exclusive hiring opportunities and puts you at an advantage for urgent projects.
Not only are you first in line, but security clearance gives you access to the country’s most cutting-edge and high-level projects such as cybersecurity post-Brexit or defence projects.
Earn more
Due to the high demand and low supply of security cleared contractors, you can command a high rate for your services. Employers will pay a premium to bring you onto their team, and the salary continues to increase as you reach higher levels of security clearance.
There’s a tendency to think of the private sector as more lucrative when it comes to salary, compared to the public sector. This is absolutely not true when it comes to SC contractors.
More career options
It may seem like a lot to go through for a single project, but once you have security clearance there will be many more doors open to you.
Maintaining your clearance enables you to enjoy the full benefits for years to come and to take advantage of emerging IT roles. Completing the vetting process demonstrates your credibility and opens new doors in your career. Once you’ve had your first clearance, it is much easier to obtain higher security clearances, which in turn lead to even more job opportunities and higher pay.
Security clearance also provides you with the ability to work more flexibly, unlocking more roles and enabling you to move between private and public contracts.
The demand for security cleared contractors is sky-high at the moment. Get in touch with us to find out more.