Do I have to be a U.S. Citizen? Yes

Will I need a security clearance? Yes, New Professionals are expected to pass a background investigation and obtain a secret security clearance.

Does SPAWAR Systems Center provide graduate studies/continuing learning assistance? Yes. Financial aid in the form of paid tuition is obtainable through your division once you take permanent assignment.  A competitive, DoD-wide scholarship is also available that allows for full-time graduate study while working part-time. Specific training (Cisco Networking, MCSE, systems administration, etc.) is often paid for through project funds as it pertains to knowledge or skills applying directly to the project.

How are the NP tours coordinated or set up? Some New Professionals have their first 3-month tour already lined up. For the most part (and on the second tour for every NP), however, an NP spends about 1-2 weeks interviewing with various branch and project managers to see if there is a good fit.  The NP uses the interviewing process to see whether the work is interesting and the working environment is enjoyable and supportive.  With only 2 NP tours, the interviewing process ensures that those tours are well-chosen and that both the NP and the Center are happy when it comes time to take permanent assignment.

What is the pay system at SSC Pacific, and how does it relate to those at other government agencies? SPAWAR Systems Center has transitioned to the National Security Personnel System (NSPS), which is a pay-for-performance system.