As we transition from 2022 to what will be the journey of 2023, and try to predict what this year holds for the hiring landscape, we asked recruiters what skills are in high demand, according to their contract requirements.
Do most of their positions require a TS / SCI + polygraph? Do their contracts require niche certifications? Or are they recruiting for programs in tough to fill locations and seeking cleared candidates that are ready to relocate to hubs outside areas like Washington D.C.?
Cleared Recruiting Forecast for 2023
Here are what recruiters say they are looking for this year:
| High security clearance levels | 37% |
| In-demand certifications | 32% |
| Candidates willing to relocate | 10% |
| Other | 22% |
While pulling in candidates to areas like Ohio seemed to an issue previously, recruiters are more focused on meeting those niche certification requirements and retaining talent that meet polygraph conditions.
Hiring for skill has also been a hot topic among recruiters, with one individual noting that they are looking for “attitude and willingness to learn. 95% of jobs can be taught.”
Finding Talent with the Right Clearance Level
Naturally, the 22% “other” category is a combination of all things to attract the right talent. Maintaining a high clearance level, making the government happy with meeting the certifications, with hopes of the candidates being available in the right location without the high compensation demands after a pandemic.
Some specific thoughts from a cleared recruiter:
“I’d say it’s a combination of the clearance, skills, certification, location and compensation. All of the above have to be a good fit. Some of the in-demand skills include software development (C++, Java or .NET are my top 3), Project Management, Cybersecurity (SOC positions and Cyber training) and Network/System Administration.
The positions that I recruit on require a TS / SCI + polygraph and are located in Bethesda and Chantilly, but the majority of my roles require lower clearances.
Niche certifications? Mostly Security+, CCNA or CEH, but I do have some that require higher certs.
Tough to fill locations would include Fairmont, WV and roles onsite at Scott AFB in Illinois.”
Finding the magic ingredients that make a candidate willing to accept an offer will forever be a recruiter’s nightmare until the market changes. Get ready to wave those magic wands!
THEÂ CLEARED RECRUITINGÂ CHRONICLES: YOUR WEEKLY DoD RECRUITING TIPS TO OUT COMPETE THE NEXT NATIONAL SECURITY STAFFER.
