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USMC Corporal stationed in Japan seeks military career transition advice
Michael, a Marine stationed overseas, writes in to ask for some guidance as he prepares his military career transition:
“I’m in United Sates Marine Corps currently stationed in Japan. I will be getting out July 2010 and I don’t really know were or how to search for jobs that I would be qualified for. I have Secret clearance right know. When I first got in I got Top Secret so I’m sure it wouldn’t be a problem to get it again. Any information you can give me will be greatly appreciated. Thank you ahead of time.”
Our response
Here’s our response that may be helpful to others as well:
Michael,
Thank you for contacting us at ClearedJobs.Net. First off, we would like to thank you for your service to our country and the sacrifices you have made on our behalf. As for any support regarding your job search, we would be happy to help you by giving any information that would aid in your search.
The first step is to determine what you would like to do and write it down in as much detail as possible. This will give you an idea of how you should write your resume.
Next, write up your resume in a chronological format working backwards from your most recent position backwards. Each job should have a date range title and as much detail as possible (unclassified) so you can let the employers know what you can do.
Lastly, when you are done with your resume please create a new job seeker account at www.blog.clearedjobs.net and upload your new resume. This is free and your first step in getting exposure.
When you are back in the states please attend one of our Cleared Job Fairs so you can meet with employers face to face and come to our free seminars.
Be sure to ask lots of questions at your TAP classes when you are getting ready to transition out. The TAP managers are there to help you.
If you have other questions, please feel free to contact us and we will do our best to help you.
Semper Fi!
P.S. Please do check out our YouTube channel that will provide you with additional, valuable guidance.
Good luck and let us know how things work out for you!
Even i am looking for jobs.I will try to come to job fair on feb 25.Thanks for the news.
Michael,
I just got out about six months ago and it is a tough transition right now. The private sector is in chaos right now and I was fortunate to get a job when I got out. If possible, I would recomend usajobs because the federal government looks well on veterans and they are hiring in a lot fo areas right now. Depending on what you want to do there are a lot of options in the major cities. Make sure you get started early and if you do not have a job as you leave, talk to your TAPS rep to try to get an internship that will upgrade your clearance. Secret is good, but TS carries some serious weight in a lot of jobs, particularly in security. Good luck with the job search. Semper Fi
-Scott
I did two tours enlisted then decided I wanted a commission so I got out, joined the reserves and did school full time. Upon graduation I got my commission and went back on active duty.
While I was out I checked the job market (much better then than now) just to compare. Going back in was my best decision. Now I work the corporate world using my clearance and doing a lot of government contracts. Really worked out for me. Good pay now, but with security like Darrell said. Best of both worlds.
My oldest son is looking to follow the same route. Sure I’ll worry but my Dad did WWII, I did Nam and he – well we’ll see.
Michael,
I have to echo the same advice Darrell gave – try to stay in if at all possible. I just retired in January from the Air Force as a CMSgt (E-9) with a T/S clearance. Started really looking for a job in July and it’s been a tough go. There are lots of jobs out there, but there are lots of qualified candidates as well. In 5 months I’ve only had 2 interviews, and it can get a little discouraging.
If you can’t stay in the Corps, make sure you have enough cash stashed away to take care of your needs for at least 3 months. And when it comes to finding a job, keep an open mind. Good Luck!
Frank
Michael,
I got out of the Navy after 6 yrs in 94. I was an electronics technician specialized in repair and mainenance of airborne radar jammers. As you might imagine, there is not much demand for radar jammer repairmen in the private sector. Unless your current job can directly transition into a private sector job, my advice is take advantage of the GI Bill and go to school. The private sector does not put as much value on military service as many of us would like, but it does value education. Don’t get hung up on your security clearence either, its useless outside of government/security jobs.
There are plenty of ways to fund an education these days, just don’t go too far in debt. Keep your spirits up and thanks for your service.
Rich in South Carolina