Lockheed Martin is a $46 billion aerospace, defense, security and advanced technology giant. The third largest aerospace and defense company (after Boeing and United Technologies), it has a diverse business portfolio. For example, in 2012 it was one of eight vendors awarded a $15 billion contract by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to consolidate the center’s data services. Company officials say the highly sensitive nature of their business demands that they hire top-notch workers with a security clearance. “Our IT team comprises some of the best minds in areas such as cyber and intelligence,” says Ben Martin, Lockheed’s vice president of global talent acquisition. “Our culture is also characterized by our passion to develop our employees’ careers through leadership development, mentoring and training opportunities.” Currently, the company currently has numerous openings around the U.S. and the world for entry-level software engineers and developers, network engineers, systems engineers and others with expertise in cybersecurity and intelligence analysis. Many of these positions require a clearance.
How to Read a Job Posting
“It’s important to consider the skills and experience requirements,” of the posting, says Martin. It’s also important to understand subtle distinctions. “Sometimes a job seeker will infer that their skills or experiences are in the position description [which puts the job in context] and overlook the actual skills or experiences required in the job description.”
Making Your Approach
Be sure to research the company’s products and services before you reach out. Also, be sure your resume details specific examples of work and project experience. Martin likes candidates who highlight their achievements and demonstrate leadership. It’s also important for candidates to list all the skills and products they’ve used, Martin says, because Lockheed recruiters look for frequently used key words to identify strong candidates.
Advice for Experienced Professionals
If you see a job online that interests you, apply right away. “That may seem opposite to what the career counselors may advise, but with an enterprise the size of Lockheed Martin, and the policies governing job seekers privacy, it’s the best method to have your resume seen,” Martin explains. After applying, network with the company’s recruiters and hiring managers on social networking sites. “This networking will foster a relationship that can help (a candidate) navigate Lockheed Martin.”
Advice for College Students and Recent Graduates
Lockheed Martin maintains a University Talent Acquisition team. “Emerging talent is critical to our ability to provide innovative solutions to the world’s changing technologies,” says Martin. “Our University Talent Acquisition team is focused on recruiting for college, internship and co-op and Leadership Development Program opportunities.” The company partners with university career centers and often provides information sessions or interview workshops on campus. To learn about events near you, visit the calendar on the company’s website and visit your campus career center for additional information. Martin notes that you can also chat on Lockheed’s career website with one of the university talent acquisition professionals.
