Kit Badger I’m a fifteen year old airsofter with multiple victories to my name. Will security companies still hire me if my mom has to drop me off in her minivan?
@@ringingsteel8729 I thought you were doing one of those things where the parents agree to drop you off but then someone else has to drive you home because they're not making the trip twice.
I was a contractor for one of the biggest, if not the biggest, companies from 2003-2007. After being gone for three months, I’d come home for a month and blow all my money on going out with my buddies and other BS. Don’t get me wrong, it was fun and being able to treat my friends like a rap star entourage was great. Anyway, in 2007 I broke my tibia and fibula fast-roping from a little bird helicopter. Having insurance was supposed to be my responsibility and I didn’t have proper coverage. Long story short, all I have to show for it is a truck that is paid for and a couple of plates in my leg that were very expensive.
@David DeVito Bruh i prob shouldnt say anything but for the past 7+ months i've been doing nothing but watching youtube and playing around on my phone, I literally just have to sit there and collect my money. I swear I have the best gig in the world sometimes.
Bob jones homes, contracting pays the shit, one of my buddies got payed 7k on a month long contract, dude is a college graduate with an engineering degree, contractors aren’t just bums
I've felt for a long time that I missed my calling as a male stripper, this video just gave me the strength to pursue my dreams--because who's to say what beauty really is.
@@calecollins0000 you can be the reverse stripper people will pay you to cover up so if your stripper gig doesn't work and you're a fugly bugger that is always a good plan B
Being an overseas contractor should be a stepping stone job, to literally anything else, rather than a career. It also shouldn't be used as a form of adventure, because one will most likely surely be disappointed. It's not glamorous or necessarily easy. If it is easy, it's going to be boring. You'll also be shit on. From everybody, from the people you're supporting and your company. If one thinks the army or Marines were bad in a deployment, wait until you do it as a contractor. The people that I see that are long-term, for career contractors, are generally older men that spent around a couple decades in the military and can't or won't do anything else out of the military because of ether no marketable skills, or too specialized skills that don't translate to anything else, and they usually have large families that need the money more than the father (or that's what they think); or no family whatsoever.
I served 4 years in the Army light infantry reconnaissance scout platoon. With the 10th MTN devision. Considered looking into some of this stuff and ultimately decided it wasn’t for me. Great video Ivan!
Solid, solid stuff right here brother, glad you're getting the reality of things out to people with questions. To add to what you said-- most companies that hold a contract for OCONUS (overseas) contracting anymore pretty much only look at former military or law enforcement (some obvious exceptions like prior contracting for companies or EMT/AEMT/Medic background but not too much else), minimum is 2 years of military experience (generally combat arms stuff or military police/k9 handler or sniper/DDM) or 2-5 years of LEO background-- for Security contracting positions specific. This also applies to CONUS (Domestic/stateside) contracting positions with the government, be it DOD, DHS, or otherwise. Like you said, the training is there along with the discipline. ALSO, you gotta have a clean record- no domestics, no multiple DUI's, none of that. Companies have increased standards immensely since the surge of the early 2000's and reflect that in their heavy vetting process, expect to wait for a security clearance currently of about a year. ALSO ALSO, do your research folks. Look into companies/ job types you are interested in once you have some experience racked up, there may be all kinds of opportunities to do contracting not just in a warzone, one example would be a gig in the bahamas, or in southeast asia, there's a slew of opportunities if you just dig around a bit at the plethora of companies out there with open job listings. HAVE YOUR DUCKS IN A ROW-- by that I mean have all your documents ready and up to date, including your CV/ Resume and references or recommendation letters to go along with. Be organized, and be adaptive to what may be required of the job or what's needed to even get hired, and work on your interviewing skills. There's also a LOT of other types of contracting jobs out there, if you've done communications work, HR, HVAC, your transportation credentials and passport are up to date, there's a percentage of openings out there, contracting just isn't the security/protection side of the coin. And NETWORK! Build some connections and rapport with people who can vouch for you or can get a referral from. Lastly, here's a list of great companies with open hiring slots as of right now FOR THOSE WHO QUALIFY: PAE BAE Systems DYNCORP Constellis Group Gardaworld Federal Services AECOMM Trident group (Maritime) Nexus group (Maritime) * I also suggest looking into companies (like Maersk or a governmental agency directly) for internal hiring or general inquiry into who they may use for a contractor. But that list above covers a LOT of the major contractors for security land, air and sea all over the globe. *EDIT- I also recommend checking out two other youtube channels, one is called "Vets to PSC" and the other is "Overseas Contractor Academy", both provide great info on companies, how to apply, and other valuable insight. GO DO SOME RESEARCH. And good luck.
@@killdizzle I think MVM was bought/ reconsolidated but not sure on that either. Dyncorp's a big company, they've got good money floating around but like any gig there's gonna be some BS here and there that's a fact.
@@strongishman7871 Yeah depends on the type of work experience he's had before, we have one guy who owns his own small P.I. firm and was a contractor for a couple well known companies apart from being an instructor training SWAT units and some executive protection background, all that compounded got him an in, so it's plausible just depends on the work background, they're far and few between though these days.
@@killdizzle Well said. Also following up, MVM is still around but handles a lot of administrative contracting and a little bit of physical stuff still but almost all focused now with ICE, no FPS physical contracts or anything anymore for the most part. Cheers.
The smartest contractors I've met overseas has been the IT guys. Word of advice go into the military in IT then after getting certs, experience, clearance go make 160k a year in Afghanistan as an IT specialist or go make 100k a year in Dubai or Kuwait and live a somewhat normal life.
Btw I met a kid that was 23 working as a help desk IT specialist making over 100k a year. No kids, no bills just racking up the money. He did 4 years military and now he's making bank. Security contracting is NOT as cool as what they show on the movies. Living and working in "Austere working environments"-u know what Im talking about for all those fellow contractors hahaa....yeah it sucks but it is what it is and just like the military it is very capable of thrashing your relationships back at home. Sh!t is rough for sure.
I'm leaving for the army in 10 days as 11x, have my eyes set on becoming a ranger in the 75th. I still have a long way to go being 18 now but contracting is something I'm really interested in doing once I get the experience under my belt. Just wanna say thank you for all the advice and information you've been putting out, It's helped me understand the contracting scene a lot more.
Cheers for the video's Ivan, I remember watching your first video on security contracting about a year ago. Got me keen to go out there and get after it. Since then got on a gig contracting in the Middle East, never looked back since. Awesome content, keep it up!
My buddy is a former 18b and was a cop/swat for 7 years before going into contracting and he his salary dropped every time it was time to renew his contract, mean while he got divorced and ended up with very little money saved
Unfortunately the pay issue is an ever increasing problem. What PSS's overseas were making in 2004 is NOT what they're making now, current PSS contracts pay about 250 to 450 bucks a day depending the contract and employer, on top of any divorce/ court related stuff and the taxes of the country you're working in, that all shaves off the top more and more with the decline of pay, so you're looking at 60k to 85k/ year instead of 150k like it used to be. And that will only worsen with corporate structuring and policy, and the government not paying out as much for contracts.
I worked with Ivan a few times and caught the last few years of the good times contracting. There are a lot fewer jobs and a lot more applicants then ever before. Sorry to burst your bubbles but unless there is another war the goods times in Iraq and Afghanistan are over.
Many years ago, when I got out, worked CP as BG to a HV Individual (got to love the acronyms) and it was...not at all what I expected. Even though I had much advice prior it was a culture shock. Hard to explain. Admittedly very different to deployment type work but part of what one may have to undertake to pursue a career in security. It was REALLY not for me but not wanting to give up, I stuck with it. I was wrong. It wasnt for me, or honestly for 99% of us.
11 Year active duty infantry guy here and I’m STILL struggling to get into one of these contracts. I have combat deployment experience, nato mission experience, escorting HRO’s and still been a pita.
I might do it temporarily. About to get out of the Marines in 2 months and a couple of my friends are slated for training. I’m gonna go to college when I’m out, but I got some time to burn in the meantime.
Sage advice. Me now? No and no, as I am an overweight, out of shape dad who has been out of it way too long. But if I had held to this ideal, don't ask permission, who knows, maybe I would have been a game warden in Africa, or a teacher in Bermuda, and a member of their Bermuda Defense Regiment. Now, about that time machine; I cannot find the plans in HG Wells' book, but I'm working on it.
I should not & cannot be a security contractor. I'm that liability you mentioned in the beginning. But as a drinking buddy who will talk about how much fun we had at the range? Yes. I'm that guy! Haha. Great info. Thanks!
Part of my family were contractors. My uncle a retired police detective and former sheriff investigated war crimes for the u n in former Yugoslavia, my brother in law a former army reserve intelligence sgt taught the Bagdad police, my cousin who was rejected by the marines during vietnam rode shotgun on convoys in Iraq along with his wife both were private detectives in the past, my other cousin with no military or police background got hired on to do security work in Afghanistan, he is now severely ill from chemicals in a burn pit. Remember as a surety contractor you don't get VA benefits. I did 20 years usaf security police: nuclear, air base defense, intelligence, anti terrorism, law enforcement and instructor. Plus 4 years as a private security manager. A company wanted to grandfather me in and offered me africa. My choice of country,...my wife said "no." The pay would have been great. But I didn't need another divorce. Bottom line: it's adventure, go for it!
Hello, so I'm actually in a 3 year contract in the airforce security forces (NG), and I'm also a certified k9/working dog handler on the civilian side (protection dogs, doing k9 security). Do I have a good chance of getting picked up for a decent contract once I'm out the military?
Stop thinking about Security Contracting. Get a job, wife, kids, maybe a dog, and when you're on your deathbed, be glad that you got through life without killing anyone.
When my dad was down in afghanistan in 04 or 05 he got offered to do security contracting for a US contractor after his tour was done and he is Swedish, so it is possible if your a foreigner.
I'm 25 no military background but extensive training in firearms as well as hand to hand and working in small teams, self taught gunsmith (still doing courses in gunsmithing)
As someone who was deemed not deployable due to retained hardware in my legs, and missed out on my dream of becoming a Ranger, contracting seems like it might be a second opportunity. As someone with a CJ degree, three years of law enforcement and five years of armed security work domestically, do you think I’d even have a chance at some of the more high-speed jobs?
The US Government is the large hire of contractors in the world, it’s a multibillion dollar industry, I’m have never been in the military but I’m a government contractor. It’s just depends on what your doing. Like me, in natural disasters, Pay grade varies on the situation. That goes with everything, if you made it this far, just work your assss off, be smart with your money and think it out you won’t regret it airsoft kid
I deployed twice in the Army. Once to Iraq and once to Afghanistan. I have a 90% disability rating through the VA for PTSD, protruding discs and other joint problems. Will this be an issue?
Depends on how much you can cope with your injuries and if you can pass the medical and physical fitness tests. Don't downplay your injuries, but be honest with them and yourself if you really want to do it, worst that can happen is they say "no" or your medical doesn't clear, not a big loss honestly, the pay is getting worse along with all the company bullshit.
1:11 this question seems familiar the dude who asked him this question is surely a Filipino Airborne trooper who just got discharged from the armed forces or resigned
How hard is it to move up in the contracting world now? As in, can you take a lower-level contract to get your feet wet and then use that to work your way up to better contracts? Or is it based heavily off of your service record (ie, if you weren't Special Operations, you aren't going to sniff a high tier contract)? I have a strong background, but I screwed up by trying the civilian life thing first. Kicking myself over that now because when I left the military, I was already offered some decent contracts and now I'm only getting the basic ones.
Once you're in the PSS gigs, there really isn't much to move up into. Put some time in and then hit up company recruitment-- there should be an internal employee transition team you can talk to, you may get the opportunity to move to a slightly higher position on a PSD (i.e. team leader) with the company or from domestic to overseas, but other than that it would be trying to apply to an upper management position kind of thing (which you'd need a degree for too, but with being with the company that puts you in the front of the list over outside hires should you qualify).
I’m here to read the comments. Bottom line. Just join the military folks. You know you want to but might be a little scared. It does suck at first (in my opinion) Stop looking for ways to fulfill your fantasies of being a badass without having to make all the sacrifices for it. In my opinion the worst part about being in the military is time away from loved ones. Contracting same, many careers out there same. As you get older you realize that time is was really matters. Make the most of it.
The tier 1 contracting gigs sound pretty epic, but you have to be former SOF. I’m infantry rn with a ranger tab and at a fork in the road: do I give the rest of my 20s up trying to go SOF or choose to have an actual life and family, but regret not doing enough cool guy things? Seems like an impossible decision, has anyone wrestled with this?
Now this video only got 66k views what the heck haha, whatever TH-cam algorithm is trash. But I learned something new, was interested in hearing what a contractor has to say about it.
A big question I have about security contracting is about the future of selection in security companies. With it being peacetime for an extended period of time, will combat experience still be necessary for most contracts? If so, where are you supposed to get that combat experience?
For overseas specifically, the standards and requirements have not changed, and will only increase with the picky demands of the government. Combat deployments aren't necessary per se, but time in with military or law enforcement absolutely is at base level. It will not change for PSO/ PSS Security Contracting.
As a prison officer in the uk looking at getting certificates for using firearms do you think the fact I was a prison officer would help me? Shows I can handle myself in intense situations?
I am 23-year-old Malawian with no Military experience i want to join the American army or the British army but i don't have any connection to anyone abroad if this massage touches a heart of anyone out there, please help I will return the Favour with gratitude
I dropped my cushy job with Northrop to go do an overseas contract as a security specialist. I assumed I was going to be doing some high level intel stuff, perhaps security details ect ect.. In truth I was an office grunt verifying clearances in JPAS or DISS, processing visits and printing access badges. Occasionally I got to do something exciting like give a briefing XD
Would be really curious on your outlook three years later about if anything has change in regards to family and other pros and cons that you mentioned here
I'm looking at an MSO course in Serbia at the moment. They are suggesting that its possible to get a job after completing the course without any military experience. I do not have an military experience. Is this a pipe dream?
The companies usually have their job listings on their websites, some also post them on sites like Indeed. If you have the background/ experience required (and check the job listings for their requirements), go check out some company websites and apply, that doesn't hurt anything to put in an app and talk to recruitment.
Hey Kitbadger. I currently have a Swiss Citizenship and I am interested in Security Contracting. My question is, is it even possible for me? I have experience as a Recon Parascout but no actual combat experience.
I would gander that the answer is no, chief. Understand that security contracting companies often work in collaboration with the US military to some capacity---the home of the military industrial complex. So unless you can find one that's willing to hire someone from any nation, or more specifically, a company that's Swiss, I don't think it would work out. Shop the market though, I guess. Just don't end up joining something like Wagner out of desperation for wanting it so badly.
I’m in as an L03A (8404) right now, unless something pops off soon I most likely won’t see combat before the end of my first contract but I want to get into security contract, any suggestions on what to do while I’m in to start putting myself in a position to get contracted once I get out
Ivan, can you discuss the moral and legal implications of contracting because UN contractors were implicated in sex trafficking in a certain eastern european country and war crimes in a middle eastern country, i.e. shooting unarmed civilians without justification. One of the contractors blew the whistle in the first instance and was unable to do further contracting. Can you walk off the job contracting if you make it a provision in your contract? What are the consequences of blowing the whistle other than no further work as well as death threats? How do you screen out bad employers and bad fellow employees, i.e sh!t birds? I personally know of contractors working in the US that were paid to beat up US political protesters, i.e. US citizens, on US soil so my impression of contracting is rather mixed.
So when security contracting can you do so with a background in the Navy or do they only want Army or Marine? I tried to Google it but couldn't really find anything.
@@KitBadger Wow thanks for the speedy reply, I was about the apply for the Military but was torn between Army and Navy. But I guess it doesn't really matter in the end? Well thanks anyways, I really enjoy these sorts of videos
I'm probably like a lot of people that want to get into this LOL I have no military experience but dude I would do anything for $25 an hour you want to shoot at me for $25 an hour ago ahead. If I die I die, but at least I have a chance at getting ahead financially.
If you're a US citizen, go ahead and apply. If you're in Europe, look at one of the European or UK specific Security Contractors to apply to, you'll qualify.
Bro I need some advice so I have been serving 5 years in the South African Police Service. I am trained in SWAT, crowd management, close protection, first aid and numerous other courses. I have experience from patrol and complaints to Trio task team k9 and a instructor (PT). But I am seriously struggling to find jobs abroad especially on a contract basis. I want to be exposed to different environments that's my main reason and get away from this rat race. I am currently 25 Please some advice
Hey mate how I get hold of you, really wanted to ask some personal shit concerning my situation? I am 38, x military, 13 years in, 28 months in combat, but support mos, despite ran QRF and Convoy Security, e.t.c.. Thanx, hope you answer. I do not use youtube often not sure other than posts how people get hold of you.
I was, but kinda not at the same time, trailer parks can be rough places at times. But yes I agree if you work your way up, you could at some point make those connections. But honestly the best way to do it, is join the military. Make a name for yourself. Reach out to the companies and go from there.
Yes, there are many mechanic specific jobs available in the private sector including armorers and otherwise. Contracting just isn't security specialists, the whole gamut of jobs are there, from foodservice to HVAC to electricians, mechanics, truck drivers, administrative, and so on.
Hey guys question I’m 24 with years of doing both armed and unarmed security as well as some bouncer gigs but I’m trying to learn more and gain more experience for certain goals I would like to achieve but don’t know if something like GWFS would help, 1. I could use the money and experience of a one year contract and 2. Could open up some doors for me, not looking to do it long time but I would like to get the experience, what you do you think?
As long as you have 5 years of armed private security experience under your belt, there are some companies that might take you on for a domestic/ stateside PSO position, but other than that there's little to no chance you can get overseas with a corporate and regulated federal/ defense contractor unfortunately.
There are many different contracts and all require different stuff. I am pretty sure that there are some contracts that you can have with LEO experience
Kit Badger I’m a fifteen year old airsofter with multiple victories to my name. Will security companies still hire me if my mom has to drop me off in her minivan?
Is your mom willing to go as far as Forest Gump’s mom did?
georgia bowhunter She does care about my education.
Your mom has to drop you off _and_ pick you up.
Titanium Rain well how else would I get home?
@@ringingsteel8729 I thought you were doing one of those things where the parents agree to drop you off but then someone else has to drive you home because they're not making the trip twice.
I was a contractor for one of the biggest, if not the biggest, companies from 2003-2007. After being gone for three months, I’d come home for a month and blow all my money on going out with my buddies and other BS. Don’t get me wrong, it was fun and being able to treat my friends like a rap star entourage was great. Anyway, in 2007 I broke my tibia and fibula fast-roping from a little bird helicopter. Having insurance was supposed to be my responsibility and I didn’t have proper coverage. Long story short, all I have to show for it is a truck that is paid for and a couple of plates in my leg that were very expensive.
1,000 a day for 60 days is amazing. Thankfully im a jew and saved my money from PMCing
Sounds sketchy, DBA should've covered that
Would having a background as a tacp specialist in the usaf be good for security contracting?
If you are actually asking any position in combat arms / sof would be good. I assume tacp would apply if you have been in combat / deployments.
@@alexenderson2234 I going tacp and was wondering the same thing
I’m already a security contractor. I’m sitting here in a warehouse in Michigan playing on my phone. Love security contracting
@David DeVito Bruh i prob shouldnt say anything but for the past 7+ months i've been doing nothing but watching youtube and playing around on my phone, I literally just have to sit there and collect my money. I swear I have the best gig in the world sometimes.
Bob jones homes, contracting pays the shit, one of my buddies got payed 7k on a month long contract, dude is a college graduate with an engineering degree, contractors aren’t just bums
@Bob jones 16$/hr as a 22 year old is pretty fucking good
BigBurt- former military i take it?
@@youngfungus2003 22 year old with a hs education actually.
I've felt for a long time that I missed my calling as a male stripper, this video just gave me the strength to pursue my dreams--because who's to say what beauty really is.
All the people that won't be tipping you, you ugly bastard. :)
@@KitBadger Gatekeeper of the grape smuggler, I see how it is.
@@calecollins0000 you can be the reverse stripper people will pay you to cover up so if your stripper gig doesn't work and you're a fugly bugger that is always a good plan B
i stripped in a pub for a measly 35£
Hey man, I know it's been a year since you made that comment but I hope things have been going well for you.
Being an overseas contractor should be a stepping stone job, to literally anything else, rather than a career. It also shouldn't be used as a form of adventure, because one will most likely surely be disappointed. It's not glamorous or necessarily easy. If it is easy, it's going to be boring. You'll also be shit on. From everybody, from the people you're supporting and your company. If one thinks the army or Marines were bad in a deployment, wait until you do it as a contractor.
The people that I see that are long-term, for career contractors, are generally older men that spent around a couple decades in the military and can't or won't do anything else out of the military because of ether no marketable skills, or too specialized skills that don't translate to anything else, and they usually have large families that need the money more than the father (or that's what they think); or no family whatsoever.
When I grow up I want to be Ben Carson... or maybe a short-order cook! It depends on the benefits... ☺️
Solid choices. :)
I served 4 years in the Army light infantry reconnaissance scout platoon. With the 10th MTN devision. Considered looking into some of this stuff and ultimately decided it wasn’t for me. Great video Ivan!
You'll probably be happier and safer for it Nick. :)
@@KitBadger from what I have heard it’s not a safe job
Extremely well paying but not safe
@@definitelyaperson6334 it's actually boring AF. 🤷♂️
@@FRWD_FXLRST agreed but the pay is good
Its 11th now
Dropping facts and truth as cold as the mountain you are standing on
#thedissapointingtruths
Congratulations man your the first down to earth honest sounding person on TH-cam
Thanks Richard.
Solid, solid stuff right here brother, glad you're getting the reality of things out to people with questions.
To add to what you said-- most companies that hold a contract for OCONUS (overseas) contracting anymore pretty much only look at former military or law enforcement (some obvious exceptions like prior contracting for companies or EMT/AEMT/Medic background but not too much else), minimum is 2 years of military experience (generally combat arms stuff or military police/k9 handler or sniper/DDM) or 2-5 years of LEO background-- for Security contracting positions specific. This also applies to CONUS (Domestic/stateside) contracting positions with the government, be it DOD, DHS, or otherwise. Like you said, the training is there along with the discipline.
ALSO, you gotta have a clean record- no domestics, no multiple DUI's, none of that. Companies have increased standards immensely since the surge of the early 2000's and reflect that in their heavy vetting process, expect to wait for a security clearance currently of about a year.
ALSO ALSO, do your research folks. Look into companies/ job types you are interested in once you have some experience racked up, there may be all kinds of opportunities to do contracting not just in a warzone, one example would be a gig in the bahamas, or in southeast asia, there's a slew of opportunities if you just dig around a bit at the plethora of companies out there with open job listings. HAVE YOUR DUCKS IN A ROW-- by that I mean have all your documents ready and up to date, including your CV/ Resume and references or recommendation letters to go along with. Be organized, and be adaptive to what may be required of the job or what's needed to even get hired, and work on your interviewing skills.
There's also a LOT of other types of contracting jobs out there, if you've done communications work, HR, HVAC, your transportation credentials and passport are up to date, there's a percentage of openings out there, contracting just isn't the security/protection side of the coin. And NETWORK! Build some connections and rapport with people who can vouch for you or can get a referral from.
Lastly, here's a list of great companies with open hiring slots as of right now FOR THOSE WHO QUALIFY:
PAE
BAE Systems
DYNCORP
Constellis Group
Gardaworld Federal Services
AECOMM
Trident group (Maritime)
Nexus group (Maritime)
* I also suggest looking into companies (like Maersk or a governmental agency directly) for internal hiring or general inquiry into who they may use for a contractor. But that list above covers a LOT of the major contractors for security land, air and sea all over the globe.
*EDIT- I also recommend checking out two other youtube channels, one is called "Vets to PSC" and the other is "Overseas Contractor Academy", both provide great info on companies, how to apply, and other valuable insight.
GO DO SOME RESEARCH. And good luck.
@@killdizzle I think MVM was bought/ reconsolidated but not sure on that either. Dyncorp's a big company, they've got good money floating around but like any gig there's gonna be some BS here and there that's a fact.
@@strongishman7871 Yeah depends on the type of work experience he's had before, we have one guy who owns his own small P.I. firm and was a contractor for a couple well known companies apart from being an instructor training SWAT units and some executive protection background, all that compounded got him an in, so it's plausible just depends on the work background, they're far and few between though these days.
@@killdizzle Well said. Also following up, MVM is still around but handles a lot of administrative contracting and a little bit of physical stuff still but almost all focused now with ICE, no FPS physical contracts or anything anymore for the most part. Cheers.
Thanks for throwing up the addendum buddy, I appreciate it.
@@KitBadger My pleasure brother.
I'm seventeen and it's hard not to appear naive about anything. The "don't wait for permission" part was absolutely needed. As always, great video.
Right on man, good luck in your endeavors.
Did you do it?
The smartest contractors I've met overseas has been the IT guys. Word of advice go into the military in IT then after getting certs, experience, clearance go make 160k a year in Afghanistan as an IT specialist or go make 100k a year in Dubai or Kuwait and live a somewhat normal life.
Btw I met a kid that was 23 working as a help desk IT specialist making over 100k a year. No kids, no bills just racking up the money. He did 4 years military and now he's making bank. Security contracting is NOT as cool as what they show on the movies. Living and working in "Austere working environments"-u know what Im talking about for all those fellow contractors hahaa....yeah it sucks but it is what it is and just like the military it is very capable of thrashing your relationships back at home. Sh!t is rough for sure.
Yep, legit skills coupled with a clearance.
hey i am super interested in this sort of stuff could u give any more sort of information about this ?
This. I started out as a PMC doing IT with 0 military background. Unfortunately I developed mental issues though and had to stop altogether.
@putalawea equisde ok
No romance here, just reality kids. Great video.
#sorrynotsorry :)
The conversation you and I had on this subject reminded me of how much I have changed over the time since my last deployment. Priorities man.
Priorities. :)
I'm leaving for the army in 10 days as 11x, have my eyes set on becoming a ranger in the 75th. I still have a long way to go being 18 now but contracting is something I'm really interested in doing once I get the experience under my belt. Just wanna say thank you for all the advice and information you've been putting out, It's helped me understand the contracting scene a lot more.
Right on man. Good luck, stay safe.
How was it?
It’s been 3 years. Did you make it and if not or if so where are you rn?
Cheers for the video's Ivan, I remember watching your first video on security contracting about a year ago.
Got me keen to go out there and get after it. Since then got on a gig contracting in the Middle East, never looked back since.
Awesome content, keep it up!
Nice man, stay safe.
My buddy is a former 18b and was a cop/swat for 7 years before going into contracting and he his salary dropped every time it was time to renew his contract, mean while he got divorced and ended up with very little money saved
18B's aren't very smart......
Unfortunately the pay issue is an ever increasing problem. What PSS's overseas were making in 2004 is NOT what they're making now, current PSS contracts pay about 250 to 450 bucks a day depending the contract and employer, on top of any divorce/ court related stuff and the taxes of the country you're working in, that all shaves off the top more and more with the decline of pay, so you're looking at 60k to 85k/ year instead of 150k like it used to be. And that will only worsen with corporate structuring and policy, and the government not paying out as much for contracts.
Should you be a security contractor? NO.
Having treated a number of these guys I would say that this man is speaking truth about the hardships.
I just want to say that I really appreciate the honest opinions and shared experiences you've presented to your viewers.
I love the 17 year old comment, definitely true but that
was my age when I joined the Army.
I worked with Ivan a few times and caught the last few years of the good times contracting. There are a lot fewer jobs and a lot more applicants then ever before. Sorry to burst your bubbles but unless there is another war the goods times in Iraq and Afghanistan are over.
Not to mention the new work visa stipulations on top of all that. Still good money to be made but not like it was that's for sure.
#truth
Afghanistan should be heating up right about now (July 2021) lol
Oh also if you get into security contracting start off IN DEBT like the rest of us. It builds character.
Being poor creates perspective. :)
Can u get a contract while in debt?
chuck white I’ve yet to meet one not lol
Many years ago, when I got out, worked CP as BG to a HV Individual (got to love the acronyms) and it was...not at all what I expected. Even though I had much advice prior it was a culture shock. Hard to explain. Admittedly very different to deployment type work but part of what one may have to undertake to pursue a career in security. It was REALLY not for me but not wanting to give up, I stuck with it. I was wrong. It wasnt for me, or honestly for 99% of us.
Awsome words of wisdom Sir. Positive and realistic. A lot of Police are also leaving the force to go contracting.
11 Year active duty infantry guy here and I’m STILL struggling to get into one of these contracts. I have combat deployment experience, nato mission experience, escorting HRO’s and still been a pita.
I might do it temporarily. About to get out of the Marines in 2 months and a couple of my friends are slated for training. I’m gonna go to college when I’m out, but I got some time to burn in the meantime.
Good luck, stay safe.
Sage advice. Me now? No and no, as I am an overweight, out of shape dad who has been out of it way too long. But if I had held to this ideal, don't ask permission, who knows, maybe I would have been a game warden in Africa, or a teacher in Bermuda, and a member of their Bermuda Defense Regiment. Now, about that time machine; I cannot find the plans in HG Wells' book, but I'm working on it.
I think you just need to paste all the pages into a fractal...
I should not & cannot be a security contractor. I'm that liability you mentioned in the beginning. But as a drinking buddy who will talk about how much fun we had at the range? Yes. I'm that guy! Haha. Great info. Thanks!
Double down on what you are good at. :)
@@KitBadger If I must. I must! Haha.
I can sense a good amount of agitation going on here, especially after you highlighted all of these points in your last two videos.
People keep asking the same ridiculous questions, wanting to hear the answer they want.
Part of my family were contractors. My uncle a retired police detective and former sheriff investigated war crimes for the u n in former Yugoslavia, my brother in law a former army reserve intelligence sgt taught the Bagdad police, my cousin who was rejected by the marines during vietnam rode shotgun on convoys in Iraq along with his wife both were private detectives in the past, my other cousin with no military or police background got hired on to do security work in Afghanistan, he is now severely ill from chemicals in a burn pit. Remember as a surety contractor you don't get VA benefits. I did 20 years usaf security police: nuclear, air base defense, intelligence, anti terrorism, law enforcement and instructor. Plus 4 years as a private security manager. A company wanted to grandfather me in and offered me africa. My choice of country,...my wife said "no." The pay would have been great. But I didn't need another divorce. Bottom line: it's adventure, go for it!
Hello, so I'm actually in a 3 year contract in the airforce security forces (NG), and I'm also a certified k9/working dog handler on the civilian side (protection dogs, doing k9 security). Do I have a good chance of getting picked up for a decent contract once I'm out the military?
Just asking because it seems like alot of places enjoy taking marine infantry, though i haven't heard of military police getting picked up
@@lreactor7113 if your former army/marine mp or usaf/sf check with mpri or dyncorp.
@lreactor7113 go with dynacorp you can apply on line. Make sure you tell them your also k9 (maybe more $).
Straight shooter. Much respect my man. Just got my security clearance.
Thanks for watching Mike.
Stop thinking about Security Contracting. Get a job, wife, kids, maybe a dog, and when you're on your deathbed, be glad that you got through life without killing anyone.
Excellent advice.
#truth
Thanks for the advice bro I have a interview with Triple Canopy on Monday.
Good luck, stay safe.
The most simple basic answer: if you have to ask somebody else, whether you can get in or not, you're already out.
#truth
Hope lifes been treating you well Ivan. Thanks for the video.
Thank you for telling people the truth.
Glad to share, hopefully it can help some.
When my dad was down in afghanistan in 04 or 05 he got offered to do security contracting for a US contractor after his tour was done and he is Swedish, so it is possible if your a foreigner.
I'm 25 no military background but extensive training in firearms as well as hand to hand and working in small teams, self taught gunsmith (still doing courses in gunsmithing)
Thank you for the insight and information and thank you for your service. 😎🤙🇺🇸
Serious question. Is there at least an unspoken out loud position for a human shield, hopefully with good benefits for surviving dependents?
As someone who was deemed not deployable due to retained hardware in my legs, and missed out on my dream of becoming a Ranger, contracting seems like it might be a second opportunity. As someone with a CJ degree, three years of law enforcement and five years of armed security work domestically, do you think I’d even have a chance at some of the more high-speed jobs?
The US Government is the large hire of contractors in the world, it’s a multibillion dollar industry, I’m have never been in the military but I’m a government contractor. It’s just depends on what your doing. Like me, in natural disasters, Pay grade varies on the situation. That goes with everything, if you made it this far, just work your assss off, be smart with your money and think it out you won’t regret it airsoft kid
Would serving in the national guard put me in a position where i am qualified to be a security contractor
I deployed twice in the Army. Once to Iraq and once to Afghanistan. I have a 90% disability rating through the VA for PTSD, protruding discs and other joint problems. Will this be an issue?
Depends on how much you can cope with your injuries and if you can pass the medical and physical fitness tests. Don't downplay your injuries, but be honest with them and yourself if you really want to do it, worst that can happen is they say "no" or your medical doesn't clear, not a big loss honestly, the pay is getting worse along with all the company bullshit.
1:11 this question seems familiar the dude who asked him this question is surely a Filipino Airborne trooper who just got discharged from the armed forces or resigned
Yep reality check good advice giving those that may be interested ... something to think about
I think most have a "passing" interest in it, but hopefully it will help someone take action if they are serious about it.
Been waiting on another one of these.
Hahaha, there may be another one eventually. More of a story time, since people keep asking me about it. :)
huh i just realizd this was uploaded in my birthday, kinda funny
What’s a good starting security company that will hire three years of arm security that will go out side the us
How hard is it to move up in the contracting world now? As in, can you take a lower-level contract to get your feet wet and then use that to work your way up to better contracts? Or is it based heavily off of your service record (ie, if you weren't Special Operations, you aren't going to sniff a high tier contract)?
I have a strong background, but I screwed up by trying the civilian life thing first. Kicking myself over that now because when I left the military, I was already offered some decent contracts and now I'm only getting the basic ones.
Once you're in the PSS gigs, there really isn't much to move up into. Put some time in and then hit up company recruitment-- there should be an internal employee transition team you can talk to, you may get the opportunity to move to a slightly higher position on a PSD (i.e. team leader) with the company or from domestic to overseas, but other than that it would be trying to apply to an upper management position kind of thing (which you'd need a degree for too, but with being with the company that puts you in the front of the list over outside hires should you qualify).
DREAM CRUSHER!
No dreams are safe...
I’m here to read the comments. Bottom line. Just join the military folks. You know you want to but might be a little scared. It does suck at first (in my opinion) Stop looking for ways to fulfill your fantasies of being a badass without having to make all the sacrifices for it. In my opinion the worst part about being in the military is time away from loved ones. Contracting same, many careers out there same. As you get older you realize that time is was really matters. Make the most of it.
Yep, time you can never get back.
The tier 1 contracting gigs sound pretty epic, but you have to be former SOF. I’m infantry rn with a ranger tab and at a fork in the road: do I give the rest of my 20s up trying to go SOF or choose to have an actual life and family, but regret not doing enough cool guy things? Seems like an impossible decision, has anyone wrestled with this?
Follow your heart and thats all my brotha!
Now this video only got 66k views what the heck haha, whatever TH-cam algorithm is trash. But I learned something new, was interested in hearing what a contractor has to say about it.
Nicely put!
Thanks Fernie.
Thanks for advice
A big question I have about security contracting is about the future of selection in security companies. With it being peacetime for an extended period of time, will combat experience still be necessary for most contracts? If so, where are you supposed to get that combat experience?
For overseas specifically, the standards and requirements have not changed, and will only increase with the picky demands of the government. Combat deployments aren't necessary per se, but time in with military or law enforcement absolutely is at base level. It will not change for PSO/ PSS Security Contracting.
Apply, apply and apply. Work, work work.
As a prison officer in the uk looking at getting certificates for using firearms do you think the fact I was a prison officer would help me? Shows I can handle myself in intense situations?
Do contractor company’s hire EMTs if they have a TCCC cert?
For medic specific positions yes. Check out Caliburn International, they currently need a few Medics/ EMT's with TCCC.
I am 23-year-old Malawian with no Military experience i want to join the American army or the British army but i don't have any connection to anyone abroad if this massage touches a heart of anyone out there, please help I will return the Favour with gratitude
join the french foreign legion
I dropped my cushy job with Northrop to go do an overseas contract as a security specialist. I assumed I was going to be doing some high level intel stuff, perhaps security details ect ect..
In truth I was an office grunt verifying clearances in JPAS or DISS, processing visits and printing access badges.
Occasionally I got to do something exciting like give a briefing XD
I am not interested in security contracting. But I figured this video would have been interesting. It was. And entertaining. Ha.
Would be really curious on your outlook three years later about if anything has change in regards to family and other pros and cons that you mentioned here
Ouch! Truth-bomb mortar stonk!
I'm looking at an MSO course in Serbia at the moment. They are suggesting that its possible to get a job after completing the course without any military experience. I do not have an military experience. Is this a pipe dream?
wise words from the Most family Guy
I just want to know how people even find these positions. Are there special listings?
The companies usually have their job listings on their websites, some also post them on sites like Indeed. If you have the background/ experience required (and check the job listings for their requirements), go check out some company websites and apply, that doesn't hurt anything to put in an app and talk to recruitment.
Contract work is more dangerous than high speed. Also very boring a lot of the time. People like to romanticize it but everything you said is spot on.
This is the best non answer in the entire world lol. But it does make sense.
Great video.
Truth!
I have a quick question let's say a police officer want to transfer over to private military Contracting how would that work?
Too many hoops to jump through just to pull guard duty in a shithole.
Hahaha, basically. :)
Hey Kitbadger. I currently have a Swiss Citizenship and I am interested in Security Contracting. My question is, is it even possible for me? I have experience as a Recon Parascout but no actual combat experience.
I would gander that the answer is no, chief. Understand that security contracting companies often work in collaboration with the US military to some capacity---the home of the military industrial complex. So unless you can find one that's willing to hire someone from any nation, or more specifically, a company that's Swiss, I don't think it would work out. Shop the market though, I guess. Just don't end up joining something like Wagner out of desperation for wanting it so badly.
you should look into the french foreign legion
Great video! What is the name brand of the jacket you always wear?
Thanks! Links in the description.
I’m in as an L03A (8404) right now, unless something pops off soon I most likely won’t see combat before the end of my first contract but I want to get into security contract, any suggestions on what to do while I’m in to start putting myself in a position to get contracted once I get out
Government contracting is a lot the the military and you will be gone for 6months a time similar to deployments
Ivan, can you discuss the moral and legal implications of contracting because UN contractors were implicated in sex trafficking in a certain eastern european country and war crimes in a middle eastern country, i.e. shooting unarmed civilians without justification. One of the contractors blew the whistle in the first instance and was unable to do further contracting. Can you walk off the job contracting if you make it a provision in your contract? What are the consequences of blowing the whistle other than no further work as well as death threats? How do you screen out bad employers and bad fellow employees, i.e sh!t birds? I personally know of contractors working in the US that were paid to beat up US political protesters, i.e. US citizens, on US soil so my impression of contracting is rather mixed.
No. Yes. I don't know. I don't know.
So when security contracting can you do so with a background in the Navy or do they only want Army or Marine? I tried to Google it but couldn't really find anything.
Then would your answer be No & No? :) I kid, but if you are serious, start applying.
@@KitBadger Wow thanks for the speedy reply, I was about the apply for the Military but was torn between Army and Navy. But I guess it doesn't really matter in the end? Well thanks anyways, I really enjoy these sorts of videos
@@wolfkillerq9363 right on man, have fun and be safe, whatever direction you go.
Hey Kit, thanks for the informational video. Have you got any advice for someone who wants to get into Maritime Security?
I'm probably like a lot of people that want to get into this LOL I have no military experience but dude I would do anything for $25 an hour you want to shoot at me for $25 an hour ago ahead. If I die I die, but at least I have a chance at getting ahead financially.
What if I served in the French foreign legion?
If you're a US citizen, go ahead and apply. If you're in Europe, look at one of the European or UK specific Security Contractors to apply to, you'll qualify.
Bro I need some advice so I have been serving 5 years in the South African Police Service.
I am trained in SWAT, crowd management, close protection, first aid and numerous other courses.
I have experience from patrol and complaints to Trio task team k9 and a instructor (PT).
But I am seriously struggling to find jobs abroad especially on a contract basis.
I want to be exposed to different environments that's my main reason and get away from this rat race.
I am currently 25
Please some advice
Find something meaningful to do with your life. Not contracting.
Can you join private contractor with felonies?
I am really good at playing WARZONE and call of duty. you think they'd hire me?
He calling out everyone 🤣🤣
Where’s the camp fire?
Merry Xmas!
Hahaha, I could have used one. :)
I’m sure I NEVER want to hear your voice again. Can I achieve that bro?
Hey mate how I get hold of you, really wanted to ask some personal shit concerning my situation? I am 38, x military, 13 years in, 28 months in combat, but support mos, despite ran QRF and Convoy Security, e.t.c.. Thanx, hope you answer. I do not use youtube often not sure other than posts how people get hold of you.
I played a ton of combat video games. I think I am ready for the job. Lol
What??! You mean those years of doing security at the trailer park, don’t count as experience? Lol.
I was, but kinda not at the same time, trailer parks can be rough places at times. But yes I agree if you work your way up, you could at some point make those connections.
But honestly the best way to do it, is join the military. Make a name for yourself. Reach out to the companies and go from there.
Is there a job like security contracting where you fix vehicles overseas when they get blown up by landmines and get destroyed
Yes, there are many mechanic specific jobs available in the private sector including armorers and otherwise. Contracting just isn't security specialists, the whole gamut of jobs are there, from foodservice to HVAC to electricians, mechanics, truck drivers, administrative, and so on.
Hey guys question I’m 24 with years of doing both armed and unarmed security as well as some bouncer gigs but I’m trying to learn more and gain more experience for certain goals I would like to achieve but don’t know if something like GWFS would help, 1. I could use the money and experience of a one year contract and 2. Could open up some doors for me, not looking to do it long time but I would like to get the experience, what you do you think?
No.
As long as you have 5 years of armed private security experience under your belt, there are some companies that might take you on for a domestic/ stateside PSO position, but other than that there's little to no chance you can get overseas with a corporate and regulated federal/ defense contractor unfortunately.
WPS 2 standard were lowed so the quality of guys are shit now. and the pay is shit.
Lose. Lose.
Can you join with police experience
There are many different contracts and all require different stuff. I am pretty sure that there are some contracts that you can have with LEO experience
Swat
Can I get in on a contract just by doing infinity and airborne school? Or do I have to do ranger school too
If you go to infinity school, I don't think you'll ever have time for anything else...
Kit Badger I meant after I was out
Very helpful video man...but can a Pararescue Man become a private military contractor
Are you a Pararescue?
Bro really said that no u wouldn't have hit the guy that got in they face like how would u know tho