Is anyone familiar with how to obtain an SCI/ Polygraph?

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 28 Jun 2016 09:37:45 -0400

I currently have an active Top Secret Clearance and am looking for Cybersecurity work in the DC/ NOVA area. However, I'm stuck in catch-22 where the best positions require a polygraph and most positions that require it won't sponsor it.

Any tips would be greatly appreciated!

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 28 at 2016 9:45 AM

Capt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 28 Jun 2016 09:45:25 -0400

First thing. You have to need one. If you aren't in a position that needs an SCI or Poly then you can't get one.

Once you're know you're going to a position that requires them your security manager can help you with the paperwork for obtaining the clearances.

But like you said, it's on the receiving unit to front the costs of an investigation/poly so if they don't want to do that they won't.

I am curious how you have a TS without and SCI though.

Response by Maj Kevin "Mac" McLaughlin made Jun 28 at 2016 9:52 AM

Maj Kevin "Mac" McLaughlin — Tue, 28 Jun 2016 09:52:12 -0400

My suggestion is to find a position through the National Guard which requires the poly. Those positions are found wherever CYBERCOM is located. Obviously, Ft Meade is one of those locations. But you have to be selected for the position in order to have a poly done. You cannot get one just for the sake of having one. If you attempt to do this as a contractor, they have to hire you into a position requiring it first and sponsor you for the poly (same for Civil Service).

Response by CAPT Kevin B. made Jun 28 at 2016 10:37 AM

CAPT Kevin B. — Tue, 28 Jun 2016 10:37:19 -0400

I'm familiar with SCI level which doesn't require a polygraph and some organizations whose "employees" get polygraphed on a very regular basis. Your's fits in between. Generally, if a polygraph is required as a condition of employment, the firm/organization has a specific reason for not providing it. They're using a heavy filter in a niche market where the supply exceeds demand. Or, it's a convenient way to "legally" bypass various improper hiring practices. i.e EEO. If there were inadequate resources, they'd be all over it. Also, your MIL clearance is invalid for civilian work as the investigating entities and process is a bit different. The good thing is since there's a record file on you, the new workup generally gets done sooner. Firms doing classified work for the Government have their own Security Office which manages the process for its employees. Bottom line, if the firm really wants you for a specific position, they'll make it happen.