Defense Industry: International Student Hiring Opportunities

The defense industry is a challenging field for international students to enter due to security clearance and export control system requirements. However, some US defense companies do hire international students, particularly those with exceptional skill sets, excellent grades, and the right credentials. International students may find opportunities with subcontractors or smaller aircraft manufacturing companies, and they can also explore returning to their home countries for employment in the aerospace sector.

Security clearance requirements

Security clearance is a requirement for many US federal jobs and jobs in private organisations that have contracts with the government. It is like a background check and is required for individuals hired for US government jobs, cybersecurity jobs, or any organisation that handles information pertaining to national security.

There are three levels of security clearance, each indicating the maximum level of classified information one can access. The first level is confidential clearance, which is the least restrictive. It provides access to information that can cause damage to national security if disclosed without authorisation. It must be reinvestigated for continued eligibility every 15 years and requires a National Agency Check, Local Agency Check, and Credit Check. The second level is secret clearance, which provides access to information that can cause serious damage to national security if disclosed without authorisation. The third and most restrictive level is top-secret clearance, which provides access to information that would cause exceptionally grave damage to national security if disclosed without authorisation.

Additionally, there are two types of classified information that require further clearance to access. The first is sensitive compartmented information, which involves intelligence-related methods and sources. This clearance is typically granted only after rigorous SSBI and adjudication processes and only in compartments with their own specific requirements and clearances. The second is special access programs, which involve highly sensitive projects, usually established by the Department of Defense for programs such as new military technology. This clearance level is granted to very few individuals.

The duration of a security clearance varies with the level, generally expiring between 5 and 15 years after being granted. Even when an employee gains a security clearance, access to information is still operated on a need-to-know basis. For federal contracting positions, individuals should contact their company's facility security officer or human resources office.

In the context of international students seeking employment in the US defence industry, it is important to note that security clearances may be restricted to US citizens only. This can limit the job opportunities available to non-citizens, as defence-related positions often require security clearances. Therefore, international students considering a career in the US defence industry should carefully research the specific requirements and eligibility criteria for the desired positions and organisations, and consult with an immigration lawyer to explore their options for obtaining the necessary security clearances or permanent residency.

Permanent residency status

According to US immigration laws, permanent residents or Green Card holders are authorised to work in the country. Defence companies can hire individuals with this status without requiring additional immigration petitions or sponsorships. However, employers must comply with employment verification requirements, and certain defence positions may still be off-limits due to security clearance restrictions.

For international students aspiring to work in the US defence sector, obtaining permanent residency status is a crucial step. This status provides a pathway to legal employment and can enhance their chances of finding opportunities in the industry. However, it is worth noting that even with permanent residency, certain high-level security clearances may remain challenging to obtain.

In the defence industry, security clearance requirements can vary based on the nature of the projects and positions. While some roles may only necessitate a basic level of clearance, others might demand more stringent access, which could be restricted to US citizens exclusively. Therefore, international students with permanent residency status should carefully assess the specific clearance requirements of their desired defence positions.

To increase their chances of employment in the defence industry, international students with permanent residency status can consider the following strategies:

• Networking and connections: Building a strong professional network and establishing connections within the industry can increase the likelihood of finding employers willing to hire non-citizens.
• Exceptional skill set: Developing a highly specialised or sought-after skill set can make international students more attractive candidates, even in a competitive market where US citizens are prioritised.
• Exploring startups: Startups in the defence industry may be more open to hiring international talent, especially if the individual has a strong educational background and relevant connections.
• Focus on research: Working in research roles within the defence industry can help international students bypass some of the ITAR/EAR restrictions that are more commonly associated with physical product development.
• Alternative employment paths: Considering employment through contractors or specific centres, such as JPL, which employs individuals through Caltech rather than directly through NASA, might offer more opportunities for non-citizens.

In summary, permanent residency status is a crucial factor that can enhance the job prospects for international students in the US defence industry. While it provides a legal pathway to employment, certain security clearance restrictions may still apply. By networking, developing specialised skills, and exploring alternative paths within the industry, international students with permanent residency status can maximise their chances of finding defence industry roles.

Subcontractors and commercial businesses

While most major defense companies are unlikely to hire international students due to the need for security clearance and US citizenship, there are still opportunities for them within the industry through subcontractors and commercial businesses.

The commercial side of these businesses may be more accessible to international students, as they may not require the same level of security clearance as the military side. Additionally, some defense companies with a strong focus on foreign military sales or exports may be more open to hiring international talent, provided they meet the necessary residency requirements and possess exceptional skill sets.

It is important to note that while these opportunities exist, the majority of defense-related jobs, especially those with government agencies, will still require US citizenship and security clearance. However, for international students with the right qualifications and a path to permanent residency, subcontractors and commercial businesses within the defense industry can provide a valuable entry point into the sector.

Overall, while the defense industry in the US heavily recruits US citizens, it is not entirely closed off to international talent. By exploring opportunities with subcontractors and commercial businesses, international students can increase their chances of finding employment within the defense sector.

Returning to their home country

While it is possible for defense companies to hire international students, it is not common. Most defense jobs require security clearance and US citizenship, which can make it difficult for international students to find internships and jobs in this field.

Returning home after studying abroad can be a challenging transition for international students, often referred to as "reverse culture shock." This transition can be just as daunting as leaving home in the first place and can bring about a unique set of challenges and emotions. Here are some things to keep in mind when returning to your home country:

• Managing Expectations: It is important to recognize that both you and your home country have changed during your time away. Your friends and family might not expect you to have changed and may not be prepared for the new you. They are, in a way, meeting a new person and are being asked to accept these changes all at once. This can be frustrating for everyone involved, so it is crucial to exercise patience and understanding.
• Dealing with Culture Shock: Reverse culture shock is often more stressful and difficult than the original culture shock experienced when moving to a new country. You may find yourself pining for your college life or feeling misunderstood by those around you. It is essential to keep things in perspective and remember that every country has its flaws and strengths. Try to focus on the positives of being back home and keep yourself busy to avoid having too much idle time.
• Staying Connected: Maintain connections with the friends you made while abroad, whether they are fellow international students or natives of your host country. These relationships can last a lifetime and provide you with a valuable support system during this transition.
• Accepting Differences: Accept that your post-study abroad life will be different from your pre-study abroad life. You have likely returned with new ideas, an open mind, and transformative experiences. It can be frustrating when aspects of your home culture no longer make sense to you, but you can combat this by putting your global knowledge, experience, and intercultural skills to use.
• Adjusting to Routine: Take things one day at a time, just as you did when you first arrived in the foreign country. With time, things will get easier, and you will gradually adjust to your new routine.

Remember, returning home is a process, and it is normal to experience a range of emotions during this time. Be patient with yourself and those around you, and try to embrace the changes and growth that your time abroad has brought about.

Exceptional skillsets

International students often face challenges in securing internships and jobs in the defence industry, especially in certain countries such as the USA, where defence jobs require security clearances and US citizenship. However, exceptional skillsets can set international candidates apart and increase their chances of being hired by defence companies.

• Academic excellence, such as a high GPA or outstanding grades.
• Publications in renowned journals or conferences relevant to the field, such as IEEE in the case of engineering.
• Evidence of exceptional community involvement or leadership initiatives.
• Proficiency in multiple languages.
• Awards or recognition for outstanding achievements.
• Specialized training or certifications that are highly sought-after in the defence industry, such as cybersecurity certifications.

Defence companies may be more inclined to consider international candidates who possess these exceptional skillsets, as they can contribute unique perspectives, innovative ideas, and diverse talents to their organisations. However, it is important to note that even with exceptional skillsets, international students may still face challenges due to visa requirements, security clearances, and preferences for hiring local talent in certain countries.

To enhance their employability, international students can focus on developing and showcasing their exceptional skillsets through internships, projects, and extracurricular activities. Additionally, they can explore opportunities with companies that have sizable commercial businesses alongside their defence operations, as these companies may be more open to hiring international talent.

Frequently asked questions