Security Clearance
Security clearance obtained through the national security vetting process is commonly required for jobs with national security and defence organisations as well as with the wider public and private sector. Security clearance is essential to protect against threats and ensure personnel can be trusted with sensitive information and/or property.
Key things you need to know about security clearance:
- You cannot apply for security clearance as an individual
- Security clearance is requested by an employer and carried out by Government agencies
- Security clearance is granted for a specific period of time. This will depend on the employment term or particular project
- Security clearance can be verified and transferred to a new employer if required
- If you do not have the security clearance required for a particular job you would not be able to start the employment until it has been obtained
There are three main types of security clearance:
Counter Terrorist Check (CTC)
CTC clearance is designed to reduce terrorism threats to government and commercial establishments. It is required for those who work in close proximity to organisations and/or public figures at risk of a terrorist attack. It is also required for those who have access to resources that could be exploited for a terrorist attack. A CTC usually takes up to six months to obtain and is normally valid for three years.
Search for jobs requiring CTC clearance
Security Check (SC)
SC clearance is necessary for people who have substantial access to SECRET, or occasional access to TOP SECRET assets and information. It involves a number of specific checks including criminal record, credit reference and security service. SC usually takes up to XX months to obtain and is normally valid for XX years.
Search for jobs requiring SC clearance
Developed Vetting (DV)
DV Clearance is the highest level of security clearance vetting. It is required for those with substantial unsupervised access to TOP SECRET assets, or for working in security or intelligence agencies. DV usually takes up to XX months to obtain and is normally valid for XX years.
Search for jobs requiring DV clearance
Basic checks before security clearance
Prior to any security clearance, a Basic Check (BC) or Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) check must be successfully completed as part of the pre-employment checks for good recruitment and employment practice.
As part of this process you will be asked to confirm information such as your identity, employment history, and nationality and immigration status.
Expert guidance
Synergize specialises in placing security cleared candidates at all levels in contract, interim and permanent jobs. If you would like further information or advice, please send us an email or call 01293 887524.
You may also wish to visit the government’s website, which provides information about national security vetting to the three armed services and other customers across the public sector: http://www.gov.uk/defence-business-services-national-security-vetting
