Question for contractors (L-3)

[J-Hon]

Perhaps a strange question for here, but I figured maybe someone might be able to give me some help, or point me in a good direction.

I graduate with a BS in Computer Science next fall. I'm very interested in working as a contractor, and from what I hear L-3 communications is the place I want to try and get in with.

Most of my .mil buddies "know of" some of the tech contractors, but none of them really "know" those guys, nor much about how the companies they are working for, nor that world.

So I guess I'm just looking for some advice, leads, stories, whatever you have. What's the hot area for contractors doing tech work? Dev stuff, DB admin, general IT? What's my best way "in"? Who do I need to be talking to, and what would my best move be? I've got good grades, good recommendations from industry and academic people, and more work experience than many of my peers (though most is in development). Any idea on what I need to be capitalizing on?

Appreciate it much gents,

 

[Woodlanddude]

Re: Question for contractors (L-3)

I don't know them personally, but work with a lot of contractors and agency personel for Uncle Sam and have seen a few hirings and firings(mainly in the construction field). Also learned a few things working between college stints. When interested in working someplace, it does not hurt your case to make an inquiry to their human resources department. They may have different name for it, but they will put you in the right place. Prior to making the call, look up all you can about that company and what they do(so you sound like someone they might want to talk to). Don't talk about hearsay from others or someone on the inside. You never know who likes who and who is actually in charge at this point. Ask what they are hiring in. Ask about the company's work. Ask where they would be willing to try someone with your skills prior to telling them what you are going to do. Try to get them to put you in contact with a head of the department you would potentially work for, or a senior employee in that field. Sometimes you will learn nothing, and no one will want to talk, but sometimes a forward thinking staff will tell you more than you could hope for. The call can be VERY important. Don't try to get a champion for yourself over the phone to get you hired. You may tie your cart to a horse you really don't want. Also if the HR people cut you short, then try to find an executive to talk to. Just don't be pushy and you should do good. Hope that helps.

 

[J-Hon]

Re: Question for contractors (L-3)

Understood, and I'm certainly of a similar mindset as yourself. L-3 has two places within an hour from me, and I've compiled a simple list of some names of who'se there.

I'm really just doing some recon at the moment, and fishing around to see if anyone is/has worked in the field, and what they had to say. Wanted to see what's hot, and perhaps what I should build a resume towards. Their website is somewhat sparse in regards to actual job postings, and I've yet to see a really good aggregate of contractor job postings.

My next step will certainly be to try dig through my contacts and see who can put me closer to someone in a position to hire. At the moment though, I'd like to have a better idea of what I need to be thinking about, and what would bode well in my favor as a potential hire.

 

[bachelorjack]

Re: Question for contractors (L-3)

I know some of those guys really well.

Dunno what you're looking for exactly, but you're welcome to gimme a call.

803-467-0856

 

[J-Hon]

Re: Question for contractors (L-3)

Good lookin out BJ (and I appreciate it), I'll shoot you a PM when you get some space in your box.

 

[bachelorjack]

Re: Question for contractors (L-3)

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: J-Hon</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Good lookin out BJ (and I appreciate it), I'll shoot you a PM when you get some space in your box. </div></div>

Don't shoot me a PM. Gimme a call. Don't care when. I do too much typing as it is already....

 

[Texas_Rick]

Re: Question for contractors (L-3)

I work for L-3 and can tell you this much. Fresh out of school with a new degree, go work somewhere for two years and build your resume. The chances of being hired as a contractor fresh out of school with no experience are slim.

 

[christian77]

Re: Question for contractors (L-3)

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Texas_Rick</div><div class="ubbcode-body">The chances of being hired as a contractor fresh out of school with no experience are slim.</div></div>
That's not entirely true...

 

[Arch]

Re: Question for contractors (L-3)

J-Hon. I work in the defense world and around a great many contractors. In large part, these are the people who do the work for the government. Although not as secure for a career, the money is normally better and the person on your left and right is dedicated to getting the work done right. The majority of hires in my circle are military retirees with a thorough background in what they are currently doing.

That said, the engineers and computer (IT) specialists normally come from those specific backgrounds. My advice is to approach the places you are interested in working at and ask for an internship during breaks or for a period that you can work. We have had a few that were rock solid.

Of course when the time came to fill a position, they were hired. If I can be of help, just ask.