Part Two: What do DV and SC on job ads mean for me?

By Fay Capstick

Last week we looked at the basics of the different types of national security vetting in the UK. This week we will answer some of the questions that you might have about security vetting requirements of job adverts and what it means for you.

How do I qualify to be security vetted in the UK?

There are some basic requirements that have to be met in order to be eligible for security vetting. These are non-negotiable and can include nationality and residency requirements and will be explained to you when you apply.

Does it matter or not if I have security vetting matter when I apply for a job?

Basically, yes, if you apply for a job that specifically asks you to be security cleared to a particular level, then it is a fundamental requirement of the job as you will be dealing with sensitive information. We cannot consider your application further if a client specifically requests it as essential, and you do not have it.

For most roles though, it won’t be listed as essential, just as desirable. In this situation, you should still apply. It will be the client’s decision whether to proceed with your application.

Should I apply even if I don’t have it, as I have all the other requirements?

‘Security-cleared applicants preferred’ means that there is a chance that you will be considered, but this will be behind applicants who currently hold a valid security clearance. In this situation, you should still apply. It will be the client’s decision whether to proceed with your application.

However, If a job advert specifically states that security clearance is required and you don’t have it, then there is unfortunately no chance that you will be considered for that role.

We get hundreds of applicants per role, and if it is for a security-cleared role and you don’t have the required clearance if it is being specifically requested, then we simply can’t put you forward.

However…for most roles, all applicants will be accepted, and it is at the discretion of each client, not us, whether to continue with an applicant. So read what is required carefully in the job advert and apply if you can.

Good news! However, all applicants for all positions are added to our database (obviously in accordance with GDPR), and should a position come up that is the perfect match for you, then you will be contacted. We promise! Finding our applicants the right job is our highest priority.

Even more good news! We’ll let you into a secret…not all of our jobs are advertised on our socials and website! Some positions just move too fast and the perfect applicant might be immediately waiting on our database. Therefore it is mega important that we have your current CV registered and on our system. You can upload it from our home page. That way we will contact you.

How do I get security clearance in the first place?

You can’t just decide that you want to be security-cleared to help with your job applications.

If a job requires security clearance, and they are accepting applicants without existing clearance, then the security checks will be carried out as part of the employment procedure. They will be arranged by the person in charge of hiring you or by a third-party sponsor. To act as a sponsor, a company would need to be List X accredited.

Main takeaway: You won’t be able to apply for security clearance as an individual.

I had security clearance before, is that good enough to apply?

If a job advert specifies a current specific security clearance and you have held it before, this won’t be enough. Security clearances are issued for a set period of time, and once they lapse you’ll need to be vetted again (assuming you have a job that requires it). Please see more about lapsing clearance below.

Do note: holding a clearance before does not guarantee that it will be issued again.

How can I check my security clearance?

If you are confused about the current status of your security clearance you can check with your current vetting officer. Or you can contact the UK Security Vetting Unit (UKSV). The UKSV is part of the Cabinet Office and they oversee the vetting for security clearances in the UK.

You can learn more here: https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/united-kingdom-security-vetting

Does security clearance lapse without use?

Yes, it does. If you hold a DV clearance it will drop to SC immediately upon your contract finishing. Further, many clearances will also lapse after 12 months without use. If yours has lapsed due to 12 months without use, then you will need to start to process all over again.

Please note that different levels of clearance have different inactivity periods before they elapse. Also, some clearances will immediately lapse when your contract ends regardless.

Takeaway: Always check with your vetting sponsor. They can tell you the specific terms of your clearance.

Is National Security Vetting intrusive?

National security vetting is important as it helps to protect the security of the country from threats, both internal and external. As part of that, and depending on what level of clearance you are being considered for, you might be asked to discuss things that you might consider to be personal, and thus intrusive: gambling; money; religion; internet usage such as dating apps, gambling and pornography; personal relationships. This is all so that your ability to be compromised can be assessed. The information you provide should be truthful.

Can security clearance be issued on the job?

Some jobs will require you to pass national security checks before you start work. For these jobs, you can apply even if you don’t hold a current security clearance. There could be a delay in starting work while your application is processed. If a job will sponsor your clearance, then it will be clearly stated in the job advertisement.

What if I have a previous criminal record?

You can still apply for security clearance. All applications are fully assessed and the nature of the offence and the length of time elapsed will be taken into consideration by the UKSV. The most important thing is to be honest in your application.

I’ve seen List X mentioned. What is that?

List X refers to companies in the UK working on government contracts which means they need to see classified information. List X clearance means that they can hold such information on their company premises and can also act as third-party sponsors.

Main takeaway: List X won’t be relevant to you as a job seeker as it only applies to companies working on certain government contracts.

You can learn more about what List X entails here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/security-requirements-for-list-x-contractors

So, just to make it clear: should you apply for a security-cleared job if you don’t have security clearance?: No, not if it is specifically listed in the job description as you won’t be considered. However, most roles are open to all applicants to ensure a diverse pool of talent. Therefore, unless it is a specific role requirement, please do apply.

Remember: please do register with us, in case the job you are perfect for goes live.

Final thoughts

At Parker Shaw, we have been at the forefront of the sector we serve, IT & Digital Recruitment and Consulting, for over 30 years. We can advise you on all your hiring needs.

If you are looking for your next job in the IT sector please check our Jobs Board for our current live vacancies at https://parkershaw.co.uk/jobs-board