Nuclear Security Officer: Could I do it?

[Emtfred]

Hello everyone,

I hope you're all doing well.

Recently I have become interested in becoming a Nuclear Security Officer. I am 22 and started working in hospital security when I was 18. Currently I work as an EMT and a security officer part time.  

I am worried it won't be possible for to land a NSO job because I don't have a college degree or military experience. I feel like I am experienced enough for the job and very level headed and mature. I was actuallu hired by my local police department but the funding was dropped for my position. I have a lot more interest in working nuclear security.

Do you have any suggestions to make me look like a more interesting candidate? I currently live in upstate N.Y. but would really like to relocate.

Thank you,


Fred

[fourteener]

Apply for a position and find out.  However, I don't think you will have a problem.  Also, you should set your sights higher.  Get hired, get a college degree, and move on up to something more demanding and equally rewarding.

[InTNforNow]

I'm also hoping to get in as Security Officer Trainee, and worried that lack of military experience will keep me out of consideration.  I applied a week and a half ago, so I guess time will tell. 

[blackb3lt]

Apply for a position and find out.  However, I don't think you will have a problem.  Also, you should set your sights higher.  Get hired, get a college degree, and move on up to something more demanding and equally rewarding.

^^Agree 100%

I'm on my 10th year as an NSO at Quad.  I'm thankful for the job but I actually wish I would have gotten into a trade and went to school to help support that experience.  I've recently completed my AAS in Nuclear Power Technology which is supposed to qualify me for chemistry, rad protection, maintenance, and operations.  The problem is that I have no experience and can't compete with somebody that has experience or a degree more specialized more for just one department.  I actually got back on here to try and get some advice myself but I saw this post and had a private message about another security question that has detoured me.  Maybe Karma will work towards my advantage, who knows.

Careers in this industry (and many others) on building relationships with people.  The best way you can make up for your lack of qualifications is get in touch with people and show your enthusiasm and initiative.  I would get in touch with human resources and let them know you're interested in a position.  Try and get in touch with the security manager or send a resume.  Your biggest hurdle will probably be getting the other 900 applicants that get sorted first by corporate and being one of the few left standing that make it to the hiring manager's desk. 

You're not the most qualified but you're most certainly qualified.  Just do yourself a favor and go to school and get a real skill whether you get the security job or not.  This career is not easy to retire from and their are many other factors that could reduce the longevity of the position. 

If you have any questions let me know and I'll try my best to help. 
Good Luck brother.