Tier One Talent & Intel Recruiting LLC

🔥 Check us out - reach out - send to a friend, your mom or anyone that needs recruiting support. We will definitely fill some of those empty billets for you. Tier1-talent.com sgagliardi@tier1-talent.com

🚨 ATTENTION JOB SEEKERS IN GOVCON 🚨 Let’s talk about recruiters—the good, the bad, and the ones who “ghost” you faster than a bad Tinder date. 😏 Whether you’re breaking into GovCon or just trying to level up, recruiters can be your best ally—or your biggest headache. I’ve pulled together the 5 most common questions I get about working with recruiters (plus answers that won’t waste your time). Download the guide for more stellar tips! 👉 Why do some recruiters seem more interested in filling a role than helping me? Because they’re often paid based on placements, not relationships. (Think speed dating, but with fewer cocktails and more resumes.) The best ones, though, will still invest in YOU as a candidate. 👉 What’s with the Right to Represent (R2R)? It’s like DTR (define the relationship) but for recruiters. Don’t sign it unless you know the deets—otherwise, you’re basically saying, “Sure, you can have my job search on a leash forever.” 🚩 👉 What red flags should I watch for? Pressure tactics, vague job descriptions, and recruiters who “just need your Social Security number really quick.” No, Karen, I’m not falling for that. 👉 How can recruiters actually HELP? The good ones will prep your resume, coach you for interviews, and sometimes sneak your name past the ATS gatekeepers like a VIP at the club. 👉 Are all recruiters created equal? NO. There are internal recruiters, agency recruiters, technical recruiters, headhunters… It’s a whole ecosystem out there. 💡 Pro Tip: Treat recruiters like partners, not miracle workers. Build relationships, set clear goals, and always protect your info. (No, really—keep your Social Security number to yourself.) Download the “Pro Tips Guide: Navigating the World of Recruiters Like a Pro” to help you separate the stars from the scammers. It is free - spread the word. #GovConCareers #JobSearchTips #RecruiterRealTalk

💼 Unlock the Power of Recruiters: Your Ultimate Guide to Job Search Success 💡 Recruiters can be your secret weapon in landing your next big opportunity—but not all recruiters are created equal. Do you know how to spot the difference between a top-tier partner and a potential red flag? Are you prepared to maximize the benefits recruiters bring, like direct access to hiring managers, resume optimization, and skipping the dreaded ATS? In my latest guide, “Navigating the World of Recruiters Like a Pro,” I break down: ✨ The types of recruiters (internal, external, headhunters, and more). ✨ How recruiters contact you and what to expect. ✨ The real benefits of working with recruiters—beyond just job placements. ✨ Red flags to avoid, including unnecessary exclusivity agreements. ✨ Pro tips for building a winning recruiter relationship. Whether you’re new to working with recruiters or want to refine your strategy, this guide is packed with actionable insights to help you take control of your job search and make informed decisions. 🔗 Download it free & reach out anytime! Tier1-talent.com sgagliardi@tier1-talent.com Cleared & Confused: https://lnkd.in/eWs4A_fE

🔥 The No BS Resume Guide: 2025 Edition 🔥 Let’s cut to it: If your resume still says “References available upon request,” you’re doing it wrong. Recruiters and hiring managers spend 15 seconds deciding if you’re worth their time. Make it count. That’s why I created this guide. It’s real, it’s practical, and it’s here to help you stop wasting space and start landing interviews. What’s inside: 🍻How to structure your resume so it flows and grabs attention. 🍻Why “Key Skills” is outdated and what to replace it with. 🍻Metrics: Use them wisely - don’t turn your resume into a math problem. 🍻What hiring managers actually care about 🍻Example Resume 📂 Download the guide, fix your resume, and stand out. 👇 Ready to level up? Let’s talk. Tier1-talent.com sgagliardi@tier1-talent.com Cleared & Confused: https://lnkd.in/ei8FcgK4

🥂Pro-Tips for Job Seekers in Defense, Intelligence, and GovCon – and anyone else who needs a clue. 1. Clearance Status: Wear It Like…IDK, Just Wear It. If you have a clearance, put it EVERYWHERE. Your resume, LinkedIn, moms fridge, Tinder—you get the point. Help us help you. Don’t be vague: "TS/SCI with CI Poly" > "Security Clearance" Pro Tip: If it expired, you do NOT have a clearance. 2. Your Resume: Stop Sending Your Life Story No one wants to hear about your underwater basket weaving prowess unless that basket’s holding doge coin. Tailor it-You’re entering GovCon, not the arts-and-crafts fair. It should scream, “I drink four Red Bulls a day and pack a lip like a pro,” not “I spent six months on macramé.” 3. Don’t Be Mysterious: Be Obvious We need to know the basics: Open to relocation? Have a six-figure caramel macchiato habit? Just tell us. Willing to work in Afghanistan but draw the line at Ohio? Noted. Pro Move: Share this blurb with recruiters upfront. It saves everyone time: Name: Cell | Email: Clearance: Job Titles: (What roles are you interested in?) Location Preference: (Open to relocation? Where?) Availability Date: $ Range: 4. Your Resume Is Alive, Not a Fossil If your resume hasn’t been touched in years, it’s aging like milk not wine. 🚑 Fix it regularly: New cert? Add it. Saved a program $1M? Add it. Promoted to head chooch in charge? Yup, add it too. 5. LinkedIn: Your Digital First Impression Your profile is your storefront. If it looks like a yard sale after a storm, no one’s buying. Match it to your resume. If your resume says "badass" but your LinkedIn screams "working at Hot Topic," we’ve got a problem. 6. Stop Commenting “I’m Interested” on Job Posts You’re not standing out; you’re blending in. Instead: Apply properly. Then, politely slide into the recruiter’s DMs with a tailored message. 7. AI Tools Are Watching—Play the Game AI and ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems) are scanning your resume for keywords. If you’re not optimized, you’re invisible. 8. Don’t Contract Hop (and Avoid the E-4 Mafia) If you’re hopping contracts faster than a caffeinated kangaroo, it’ll show. Stability matters, and so does your reputation. 9. Be Selective and Ask Questions Not every shiny paycheck is gold. Look into the benefits, clearance sponsorship, work-life balance, and travel requirements. Rule of Thumb: If it feels shady, it probably is. Trust your gut—it’s smarter than you think. 10. Keep Learning (Because the Market Ain’t Waiting for You) You’re only as good as your skills. Stay sharp with certifications, new tech, and relevant industry trends. Stay sharp. Stay funny. Stay classy. Tier1-Talent.com | sgagliardi@tier1-talent.com Cleared & Confused LinkedIn Group

As I grow my presence on LinkedIn and have the privilege of meeting new, kick ass people every single day – I thought I would share a bit more about who I am and how I got here. For those of you that care, I wrote this for anyone out there grinding, hustling, or flat-out stuck. If you’ve ever had a dream that didn’t work out, if you’ve ever played by the rules only to get kicked in the teeth, or if you’re just trying to figure out where you belong—this one’s for you. I’m sharing my story because I want you to know things can change for the better. You might not get what you thought you wanted, but sometimes that’s the best damn thing that can happen. It is raw, aggressive and probably a bit bold at points, but I toned it down as best I could so I wouldn’t get kicked off LinkedIn – Cheers.

🎯 Top Questions in GovCon Answered! I often get asked about clearances, certifications, and navigating the GovCon space, so I’m addressing five of the most common questions here. Many of these topics (and more!) are covered in my guides, which I highly recommend everyone—regardless of experience level—download and review. 🔍 1. Can I get a clearance if I don’t have one? Will a company sponsor a clearance or upgrade? 💡 Answer: Most of the time, no. Many companies won’t sponsor clearances due to cost, time, and risks. There are already many cleared candidates, so companies prioritize them. ✨ Upgrades: Rare but possible—especially if you’ve proven your value and loyalty to the company and it aligns with their needs. 🔍 2. If I have a clearance but take a non-cleared role, will it remain active? 💡 Answer: No. Clearances usually expire after 24 months of non-use. ✨ However: Some companies may hold or reactivate your clearance if you transition to a cleared role within the organization. Policies vary, so ask! 🔍 3. What if I have a Secret clearance (or higher) and the role requires a Public Trust? 💡 Answer: A Secret clearance usually satisfies or exceeds Public Trust requirements, though some additional paperwork may be needed. The process is typically streamlined. 🔍 4. What are the top IT certifications in GovCon, and are they better than a degree? 💡 Answer: Highly sought-after certifications include: 1. Security+ 2. CISSP 3. AWS Certified Solutions Architect 4. PMP 5. CEH 6. ITIL 7. CCNA ✨ Pro Tip: Certifications often carry more immediate value in GovCon roles, but degrees are crucial for leadership and long-term growth. A combination is ideal. 🔍 5. Does remote work affect clearance status? 💡 Answer: It depends. Many cleared roles allow remote work but require strict protocols, secure spaces, or in-office attendance to access classified systems. ✨ Pro Tip: Think long-term. If taking a remote role means losing your clearance, consider if it’s worth it. A clearance is a valuable career asset in GovCon. 💬 Have more questions? Download my guide or comment below, and I’ll be happy to share more insights. Tier1-talent.com sgagliardi@tier1-talent.com Cleared & Confused: https://lnkd.in/eWs4A_fE #GovConTips #ClearanceAdvice #Certifications #CareerGrowth

🔥 Updated OPEN IT roles that SLAP 11/22/2024 🔥 💼 Roles Requiring TS/SCI with Full-Scope Polygraph (FSP): System Administrator/System Engineer Location: College Park, MD (Onsite) $170K-$200K Network Administrator L3 Location: Annapolis Junction, MD (Onsite) $200-250K Information System Security Officer (ISSO) Location: Annapolis Junction, MD (Onsite) $170K - $200K 📍 Roles Requiring Active TS/SCI Clearance: Data Engineer Location: Washington, DC (Hybrid) $140K-$180K Full Stack Developer Location: Washington, DC (Hybrid) $140K-$175K Data Scientist Location: Washington, DC (Hybrid) $160K-$190K Business Analyst Location: Washington, DC (Hybrid) $130K-$160K Sr. Network Engineer Location: Arlington, VA (Onsite) $170K-$200K DevOps Engineer Location: Ft. Belvoir or Ft. Meade, MD (Onsite) $120K Network Engineer Location: Columbia, MD (Onsite) $120K FireEye Administrator Location: Reston, VA; Anacostia, MD; College Park, MD (Onsite) $160K-$185K Suricata/Gigamon Engineer, Mid-Level Location: Reston, VA; Anacostia, MD; College Park, MD (Onsite) $160K-$180K 🌟 Roles Requiring Secret Clearance: Oracle/PostgreSQL DBA/Developer Location: Remote (Ideal: Northern Virginia/Washington, DC) $125K-$155K 🌐 Roles Requiring Public Trust or U.S. Citizenship: PCI Compliance Specialist Location: Fully Remote (Ideal: Northern Virginia/Washington, DC) Clearance: U.S. Citizenship Required $160K-$190K Application Security Engineer Location: Remote Clearance: Public Trust $140K ServiceNow Security Incident Response (SIR) Location: Remote Clearance: Fiscal Service Public Trust $165K-$175K tier1-talent.com sgagliardi@tier1-talent.com Cleared & Confused: https://lnkd.in/ei8FcgK4

☠ The Hiring Process is Broken—Actually, it sucks. ☠ Alot of hiring processes are older than dial-up or free calls after 9pm. 👉 Step 1: Upload your resume. 👉 Step 2: Re-enter your entire resume manually - just in case we didn't see it on your resume. 👉 Step 3: Write a cover letter that no one reads - oh and make sure it is tailored to this specific job - dont let me catch the wrong company name or title in here... 👉 Step 4: Recieve a thoughtfully crafted email that says you suck and we decided to go with someone better - have a nice life. 💪 If you’re lucky enough to make it to the interview stage? Buckle up: 🔹3-5 rounds of questions, most of which you already answered. 🔹No feedback. No timeline. Just silence or empty promises. 🔹Or the classic - you've made it to the next round OR even OFFER STAGE (the final countdown) and then...... 😴 My area of expertise is Defense & Aerospace - but I see this happening everywhere. The global hiring process has become a HOT soup sandwich - no one wins—not the candidates, not the companies, not even the ATS. But it doesn’t have to be this way. At Tier One Talent, we do things differently: 💡 We won’t ghost you. Ever. (Seriously, I hate it and refuse to do it.) 💡 You’ll know where you stand at every step—even if the update is “still waiting on the client.” 💡 We work directly with hiring managers to keep things moving, because no one has time for pointless delays. Look, we’re not perfect, but here’s the deal: we actually care. About you, your time, and making this nightmare a little less soul-crushing. To companies stuck in the hiring dark ages: Call us - We’ll help you evolve. To candidates tired of the circus: Work with us. You deserve better—and we’re here to prove it. #HiringFails #NoMoreGhosting #TierOneTalent #LetsFixThis Tier1-Talent.com sgagliardi@tier1-talent.com Cleared & Confused: https://lnkd.in/ei8FcgK4

🚨 TOP SECRET JOB ALERT 🚨 🎯 Location: College Park, MD 🕵️♂️ Clearance: TS/SCI with Full Scope Poly 👀 Details: Classified. If we told you, well… you know. 💀 🔧 Role: Sys Admin/Sys Engineer. You’ll be the digital superhero ensuring classified systems run smoother than a spy’s alibi. Think James Bond, but with root access and less martinis. 🍸 🛠️ Responsibilities: Manage the kind of systems that no one talks about at Thanksgiving. 🦃 Troubleshoot issues that only three people in the world understand. 🌍 Perform tasks so critical, your job description is basically: "Just trust us." 🤫 🎓 Qualifications: Must hold a TS/SCI w/ FSP (we don’t hire amateurs). Experience with systems engineering. Or magic. Either works. ✨ Ability to communicate in acronyms no one else can decipher. Why Apply? Because one day, when you’re old and gray, you can nod knowingly when someone says, “So… how long have you known about the aliens in the ocean?” 😏 🌐 Message me (secure line only, obviously). Applications are open until they’re not. #ClassifiedRoles #SysAdminLife #CanNeitherConfirmNorDeny tier1-talent.com sgagliardi@tier1-talent.com Cleared & Confused: https://lnkd.in/ei8FcgK4