Securing a position at Lockheed Martin, a global leader in aerospace, defense, and security, can be a challenging yet incredibly rewarding endeavor. This guide will walk you through the process, offering insights and actionable steps to boost your chances of success. Let's embark on this journey together!
Step 1: Discovering Your Path – Identifying Opportunities at Lockheed Martin
The first and most crucial step is to understand what Lockheed Martin does and where your skills fit in. Lockheed Martin is a vast organization with diverse roles across engineering, manufacturing, business operations, IT, and more.
1.1 Researching Lockheed Martin:
Before you even think about applying, deeply research Lockheed Martin. What are their core values? What projects are they currently working on? Understanding their mission—"Solving the world's most complex problems, and helping our customers protect their people and advance scientific discovery"—will help you tailor your approach. Look into their different business areas:
Aeronautics: Developing and producing advanced military aircraft.
Missiles and Fire Control: Designing and manufacturing missile systems and precision weapons.
Rotary and Mission Systems: Providing maritime and airborne systems, and integrated air and missile defense systems.
Space: Developing satellites, space transportation systems, and strategic missile systems.
1.2 Exploring Career Opportunities:
Ready to see what's out there? Your primary resource will be the official Lockheed Martin careers website (
Create an Account: This is essential for applying and tracking your application status.
Utilize the Search Function: Search by keywords (e.g., "Software Engineer," "Supply Chain," "Mechanical Engineering"), location, or job category.
Set Up Job Alerts: Don't miss out on new openings! Configure email alerts for roles that match your interests and qualifications.
Consider Early Career Programs: If you're a student or recent graduate, explore their internships, co-ops, and leadership development programs (LDPs). Lockheed Martin often recruits heavily from these programs.
Step 2: Crafting Your Narrative – Building a Standout Application
Once you've identified potential roles, it's time to craft an application that screams "hire me!" This isn't just about listing your experiences; it's about connecting them directly to Lockheed Martin's needs.
2.1 Tailoring Your Resume:
This is perhaps the most critical part of your application. Lockheed Martin, like many large corporations, uses Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to filter resumes.
Keyword Optimization: Carefully read the job description. Identify keywords, skills, and qualifications mentioned repeatedly. Integrate these exact (or very similar) terms into your resume.
Quantify Achievements: Instead of saying "Managed projects," say "Managed 5 projects concurrently, leading to a 15% reduction in costs and a 10% increase in efficiency." Numbers speak volumes.
Relevance is Key: Only include experience and skills that are directly relevant to the job you're applying for. Remove anything superfluous.
Clear and Concise Formatting: Use a clean, traditional resume layout. Avoid overly decorative fonts or complex designs that an ATS might struggle with. Use clear headings for sections like "Experience," "Education," and "Skills."
Education Matters: List your degrees, institutions, and dates of study in reverse-chronological order. A bachelor's degree (and often a master's or PhD for specialized roles) with a GPA of 2.8 or higher is generally preferred. Highlight relevant coursework and projects.
2.2 Writing a Compelling Cover Letter:
While some applications may not explicitly require a cover letter, it's always a good idea to include one if possible. It's your chance to tell a story that your resume can't.
Personalize It: Address the hiring manager by name if possible, though "Hiring Manager" is acceptable.
Connect Your Experience to the Role: Don't just rehash your resume. Explain how your specific skills, experiences, and passion align with the job description and Lockheed Martin's mission.
Highlight Unique Value: What makes you stand out? What specific contribution can you make to their team or a particular project mentioned?
Be Enthusiastic: Show genuine interest in the company and the role.
2.3 Leveraging Your Network:
Networking can significantly enhance your chances.
LinkedIn: Connect with current Lockheed Martin employees. Look for individuals in roles or departments that interest you. Don't immediately ask for a referral; first, seek informational interviews to learn more about their work and the company culture.
Employee Referrals: If you know someone at Lockheed Martin, a referral from them can fast-track your application through the initial screening process. Politely ask if they'd be willing to refer you after you've built a rapport.
Recruiting Events: Attend career fairs and recruiting events where Lockheed Martin representatives are present. This is an excellent opportunity to make personal connections and learn about upcoming opportunities.
Step 3: The Gauntlet – Navigating the Interview Process
If your application is successful, you'll be invited for an interview. This is your moment to shine and demonstrate your capabilities and cultural fit.
3.1 Preparing for Interviews:
Lockheed Martin's interviews typically assess both technical skills and behavioral competencies.
Understand the Role: Go back to the job description. What are the core responsibilities? What technical skills are required? Be ready to discuss your experience with every software, hardware, or strategy listed.
Research the Company: Be familiar with Lockheed Martin's recent projects, innovations, and contributions to national security or space exploration.
Practice the STAR Method: This is crucial for behavioral questions. The STAR method helps you structure your answers effectively:
Situation: Describe the context of the situation.
Task: Explain the task you needed to complete.
Action: Detail the specific actions you took.
Result: Describe the positive outcome of your actions.
Anticipate Questions:
Technical Questions: Expect questions related to the specific technical requirements of the role. For example, if it's a software engineering role, be prepared for questions about programming languages, data structures, algorithms, and system design.
Behavioral Questions: Common questions include:
"Tell me about yourself."
"Why Lockheed Martin?"
"Why are you interested in this role?"
"Describe a challenging project you worked on and how you overcame obstacles."
"Tell me about a time you failed and what you learned from it."
"How do you handle pressure or tight deadlines?"
"Describe a time you demonstrated teamwork or leadership."
Prepare Your Questions: Always have intelligent questions to ask the interviewer. This shows your engagement and interest. Ask about team dynamics, current projects, growth opportunities, or the company culture.
3.2 Types of Interviews:
The interview process can vary but often includes:
Phone Screening: An initial call with a recruiter to assess basic qualifications and fit.
Technical Interview: May involve solving problems, discussing your technical projects in detail, or even coding challenges.
Behavioral/Fit Interview: Focuses on your soft skills, problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and how you align with Lockheed Martin's values. These might be with the hiring manager or other team members.
Panel Interview: You might interview with multiple team members simultaneously.
3.3 Security Clearance:
For many positions at Lockheed Martin, obtaining a government security clearance is a prerequisite. This process can be lengthy and involves a thorough background check. Be prepared for this if the role requires it. Honesty and transparency are paramount during this stage.
Step 4: Sealing the Deal – The Offer and Onboarding
If you successfully navigate the interviews, you'll hopefully receive a job offer!
4.1 Understanding the Offer:
Carefully review the offer letter, including salary, benefits (health insurance, 401(k) match, paid time off, tuition assistance, etc.), and any contingencies (like security clearance completion). Don't hesitate to ask for clarification on any aspect.
4.2 Background Check and Onboarding:
Lockheed Martin conducts thorough background checks. Once cleared, the onboarding process begins, where you'll complete necessary paperwork and begin your journey as a Lockheed Martin employee!
Frequently Asked Questions
How to tailor your resume for Lockheed Martin?
Quick Answer: Identify keywords and required skills from the job description and strategically incorporate them into your resume, especially in your experience bullet points. Quantify your achievements whenever possible.
How to prepare for a Lockheed Martin interview?
Quick Answer: Research the company and the specific role, practice answering technical and behavioral questions using the STAR method, and prepare a list of insightful questions to ask your interviewers.
How to find job openings at Lockheed Martin?
Quick Answer: Visit the official Lockheed Martin careers website (
How to write a cover letter for Lockheed Martin?
Quick Answer: Personalize your cover letter by addressing the hiring manager (if known), explain how your skills and experiences directly align with the job requirements and Lockheed Martin's mission, and express your genuine enthusiasm for the role.
How to get a security clearance for a job at Lockheed Martin?
Quick Answer: Many Lockheed Martin roles require a government security clearance. If offered a position, the company will guide you through the process, which involves a comprehensive background investigation. Honesty is crucial throughout this process.
How to network with Lockheed Martin employees?
Quick Answer: Use LinkedIn to connect with current employees. Attend virtual or in-person career fairs and industry events where Lockheed Martin has a presence. Build genuine connections before asking for referrals.
How to demonstrate passion for aerospace or defense in your application?
Quick Answer: In your cover letter and during interviews, articulate your genuine interest in Lockheed Martin's mission, specific projects, or the broader aerospace/defense industry. Highlight any personal projects, relevant coursework, or extracurricular activities that showcase this passion.
How to handle technical questions in a Lockheed Martin interview?
Quick Answer: Be prepared to discuss your technical expertise in detail. Review the technologies and methodologies listed in the job description. If asked to solve a problem, walk the interviewer through your thought process clearly.
How to check the status of your Lockheed Martin job application?
Quick Answer: Log in to your candidate account on the official Lockheed Martin careers website. Your application status will be updated there.
How to succeed in a Lockheed Martin virtual interview?
Quick Answer: Ensure a quiet, professional environment with good lighting and a stable internet connection. Test your audio and video beforehand. Maintain eye contact with the camera, dress professionally, and minimize distractions.
