Lockheed Martin College Work Experience Program 

Gain real-world work experience at Lockheed Martin relevant to your academic and career goals while maintaining full-time enrollment with the University of Texas at Arlington.
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What is CWEP?

The UTA Lockheed Martin College Work Experience Program (CWEP), which allows undergraduate and graduate students to gain real-world work skills and abilities relevant to their academic and career goals, is one of numerous UTA initiatives designed to increase meaningful engagement between the University and the corporate community. It aligns with UTA’s Maverick Advantage program, which prepares students for careers through experiential, hands-on learning opportunities.

Apply To CWEP

LEARN ABOUT CWEP

Lockheed Martin is a global security and aerospace company that employs approximately 116,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. 

  • CWEP is a 2-consecutive, semester-long (at minimum) program that is open to both undergraduates and graduate students. LMC’s core work hours are from 9:00AM – 3:00PM Monday through Thursday.  CWEPs can work up to 25 hours per week and up to 40 hours per week during Spring, Summer and Winter Breaks with Manager approval.
  • The CWEP Program is a paid opportunity for students in which pay is based on student classification (Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors, Grad Students (Masters-level) and the specific position assigned (technical vs. non-technical).
Important Program Information:
  • Lockheed Martin Hiring Managers are responsible for scheduling the interviews with the selected students.
  • Interviews will be conducted in person, by telephone, or by video conference.
  • This information is subject to change based on Lockheed Martin policy and procedures.
  • Students must be a U.S. Citizen or U.S. Person.
    • Students who are U.S. persons or, if the specific job at issue requires a U.S. security clearance, U.S. citizens and who have met the requirements for the particular positions as set forth by UTA and Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control (LMC) U.S. person “means any natural person who is granted U.S. citizenship; or any individual who is granted U.S. permanent residence ("Green Card" holder); or any individual who is granted status as a "protected person" under 8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a)(3).
    • Certain roles may require a student to be a U.S. Citizen in order to obtain a U.S. secret security clearance.
  • Students must have completed at least one semester at UTA prior to applying for the program.
  • Be enrolled as a full-time student at UTA for Fall and Spring Semesters.
    • Undergraduate Students = 12 hours.
    • Graduate Students (masters-level) = 9 hours.
    • *Any college credits being taken at another institution must be in addition to full-time enrollment at UTA.
  • Undergraduate and graduate students must be in good academic standing as per their college requirements.
  • Students must agree to background screening and urine drug screening. Per Lockheed Martin policy, no person with a positive drug test will be eligible to work at Lockheed Martin.
    • Once the student has passed both the background screening and the drug screening, and begins work at Lockheed Martin, the student understands they will be under constant background screening while employed.
  • Ability to work a minimum of 12 hours per week, up to 25 hours maximum, Monday – Thursday during the fall and spring semesters.
  • Not hold another employed position without the approval of the CWEP Coordinator while participating in CWEP.  Outside employment will be vetted through UTA’s internal system for any potential UTA conflict of interest.  UTA will coordinate with LM if any outside employment is held by the student.
  • UTA / CWEP will consider and approve applicants for the CWEP Program without regard to race, ethnicity, religion, color, sex, national origin, age, United States military veteran's status, ancestry, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status or family structure. Further, UTA / CWEP will consider and approve applicants for CWEP without regard to mental or physical disability so long as the essential functions of the job can be performed with or without reasonable accommodation.

In order to be considered for the College Work Experience Program, students should follow the directions below.

  1. Visit https://uta.peopleadmin.com/
  2. Students will need to create an account on People Admin in order to apply for the College Work Experience Program. Once an account is created, students can sign in and apply as well as save applications for future submissions. 
  3. Click CWEP Students (blue button).
  4. Review the Non-Technical Job Posting and Technical Job Posting and apply accordingly based on your background (major, work experience).
  5. Complete the application in its entirety. Please note you will be required to upload your resume and unofficial transcript (from MyMav).
    1. For information on how to download your unofficial transcript from MyMav, please click here.
  6. Submit your application.

 

CWEP Step by Step Application Guide

• Resumes of applicants who meet all of the minimum qualifications of the requisition will be shared with LMC Hiring Managers.
• LMC Hiring Managers will contact candidates directly about the interview process.  Please note this is dependent on job availability and it could be some time before you are contacted.
 

CWEP NEW PARTICIPANTS:  Q&A

*The information below mirrors the step by step application guide infographic.

 

APPLICATION QUESTIONS

  • How do I apply and get hired in the CWEP program?
    • You apply through the CWEP application portal on People Admin to get into the CWEP pool of applicants.
    • If you meet all of the minimum requirements, you will be notified by email that you are part of the CWEP applicant pool.
    • Hiring Managers will continuously review student applications in the CWEP applicant pool.
    • If you meet the criteria and skillset for a position, the hiring manager will contact you for an interview.
    • After the interview, if you are selected for a position, you will receive information on next steps which include an orientation.
    • If you are selected for an interview and not selected for a position, you will automatically be placed back into the CWEP applicant pool where other hiring managers will continue to search for candidates.
    • You must be able to commit and work a minimum of 2 consecutive semesters.
    • NOTE that through this program, you will be hired as a UTA Student Worker working at Lockheed Martin. You are not a Lockheed Martin employee.

 

  • What is the CWEP applicant pool?
    • Once you apply to the CWEP program and you have received an email that confirms you have met all the minimum requirements, you will be in the CWEP applicant pool.
    • Hiring managers will review applications in the CWEP applicant pool and directly contact students for interviews.  You may be contacted by more than one Hiring Manager.

 

  • Can any major apply?
    • Yes, the program is open to any major, but candidates for interviews will be selected by the Hiring Managers based on how closely the applicant meets the required skills and knowledge for the position.

 

  • Can a student apply at any time?
    • You must have completed 1 full semester at UTA prior to being accepted into the program. Otherwise, the program is open to freshmen though graduate students.

 

  • Can international students apply?
    • Student applicants must be U.S. persons.
    • Students who are U.S. persons or, if the specific job at issue requires a U.S. security clearance, U.S. citizens and who have met the requirements for the particular positions as set forth by UTA and Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control (LMC)."U.S. person 'means any natural person who is granted U.S. citizenship; or any individual who is granted U.S. permanent residence ('Green Card' holder); or any individual who is granted status as a 'protected person' under 8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a)(3).”
    • There will be certain roles that will require U.S. Citizenship.

 

  • What is the minimum semester GPA needed to apply for the program?
    • Undergraduate and graduate students must be in good academic standing as per their college requirements.

 

 

  • When can I apply to the CWEP program?
    • Applications for the CWEP program overall are open and accepted year-round.

 

  • Do I need to fill out all sections of the application?
    • Yes, you can save and continue as it is a lengthy application.  Only completed applications will be reviewed for the CWEP applicant pool.

 

  • How will I ensure that I am in the CWEP applicant pool after I apply?
    • You will receive an email through your UTA email confirming you are in the CWEP applicant pool.

 

  • How are candidates selected for the CWEP applicant pool?
    • Applicants must meet minimum requirements to be in the candidate pool. 
    • You will be notified via UTA email if you do not meet the minimum requirements.

 

  • After I apply, how long will it be until I am contacted for an interview?
    • The timing of an interview is dependent upon open positions and the Hiring Manager’s work needs.

 

  •  Can I withdraw my application from the program at any time?
    • Yes, you can send an email to cwep@uta.edu and indicate that you want to withdraw.

 

  • How long can I remain in the program?
    • You will remain in the program as long as you meet program eligibility.
    • You can choose to withdraw your application at any time.

 

  • What happens if I no longer meet eligibility to be in the program or to work at Lockheed Martin?
    • If you are in the CWEP program working at Lockheed Martin, the situation will be assessed and will be determined on a case-by-case basis.

 

PRE-INTERVIEW AND INTERVIEW QUESTIONS

  • When will I be contacted for an interview?
    • Interviews are conducted on a rolling basis throughout the year to include the summer.
    • If a Hiring Manager reviews your application information and decides that you meet the qualifications of the position, the Hiring Manger will contact you directly to schedule an interview.

 

  • How will applicants in the CWEP applicant pool be selected for an interview?
    • Candidates will be selected based on the position and skill set required for the position.
    • If selected, the Hiring Manager will contact you to schedule your interview.

 

  • How will I know if I am selected for an interview by the Hiring Manager?
    • If you’ve been selected for an interview, you will be notified via email or phone from a Lockheed Martin Hiring Manager.

     

  • How long will it be before I am contacted by a Lockheed Martin Hiring Manager for an interview?
    • This is dependent on the roles available at Lockheed Martin and how well your skillset and background meet the position roles and responsibilities.
    • NOTE:  It may take a few weeks to be contacted.

 

PRE-HIRE AND HIRE QUESTIONS

  • What happens after the interview and I am selected for a position?
    • You will receive an offer letter via your UTA email address that outlines next steps.
    • NOTE: through this program, you will be hired as a UTA Student Worker working at Lockheed Martin.  

 

  • How will I know if I am NOT selected for the position after the interview?
    • An email notification will be sent to your UTA email address. You will be placed back in the CWEP applicant pool for future opportunities.

 

  • Will I have to go to a UTA HR New Employee Paperwork session if I am selected for a role at Lockheed Martin?
    • Yes. If hired all CWEP student employees will be required to attend a session to complete required paperwork.
    • NOTE: through this program, you will be hired as a UTA Student Worker working at Lockheed Martin.  

 

  • When and where are the UTA HR New Employee Paperwork Sessions?
    • You will receive an email with full instructions outlined in the offer letter.

 

  • What do I need to bring to the UTA HR New Employee Paperwork Sessions?
    • The offer letter will outline everything you will need to bring to the session, which will include I-9 and proper citizenship ID.

 

  • Will I need to attend a CWEP Orientation before going to work at Lockheed Martin?
    • Yes, CWEP Orientation is required for all new employees beginning work at Lockheed Martin.
    • NOTE: CWEP Orientation is different/separate than UTA HR New Hire Employee Paperwork Sessions.  

 

  • When and where are the CWEP Orientations sessions?
    • CWEP Orientations are scheduled biweekly, and held on Mondays from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
    • You will receive an email with full instructions on how to sign up for a virtual orientation session.

 

  • Will I get paid for attending the CWEP Orientation session and HR New Employee Paperwork Session?
    • Yes.

 

DRUG TESTING AND BACKGROUND CHECK QUESTIONS

  • Do I need to take a drug test to apply to the CWEP program?
    • No, CWEP applicants are not required to take a drug test. 

 

  • Do I need to take a drug screen test if I am hired for a position?
    • Yes, if hired, all CWEP student employees will be required to take a drug screen test.
    • You will be expected to take the drug screen test within 72 hours of accepting an offer.

 

  • Will I receive results from my drug screen?
    • No, not unless there is an issue.

 

  • Will I need to submit to a criminal background check to apply for the CWEP program?
    • No, CWEP applicants are not required to submit to a criminal background check. 

 

  • Will a criminal background check be conducted if I am hired?
    • Yes, if hired, all CWEP student employees will be required to submit to a criminal background check.
    • In addition, if you are selected for hire, the background check will include constant monitoring while in your position at Lockheed Martin.

 

  • Will I receive results from my criminal background check?
    • No, you will not receive any direct notification unless there is an issue.

 

  • What does constant monitoring mean?
    • Lockheed Martin requires that all CWEP student employees in the UTA CWEP program be under a constant background check monitoring process (through the vendor, First Advantage).
    • This means that if there is any issue or concern regarding your background check, it will be flagged immediately and sent for review to Lockheed Martin as an ongoing process.
    • UTA will receive notification of any issue that comes up during constant monitoring regarding your background check. 

 

WORK HOURS AND PAY QUESTIONS

  • How much will I get paid?
    • Student pay is determined by student classification (Freshman, Sophomore, Junior, etc.) and position type (technical, non-technical).

 

  • How many hours will I be able to work as a student?
    • CWEP student employees must work at least 12 hours and can work up to 25 hours per week during the spring and fall semesters. 
    • CWEP student employees can work up to 40 hours per week during spring, summer, and winter breaks (per manager approval). 
    • LMC’s core work hours are from 9:00AM – 3:00PM Monday – Thursday.  
    • The CWEP Students’ workdays must be scheduled between Monday – Thursday to the maximum extent possible since the majority of LMC is on a flexible 4/10 work schedule and normally work 10 hours a day Monday – Thursday.  

 

  • Who pays me? Lockheed Martin or UTA?
    • As a CWEP student employee, you are an employee of UTA through the Career Development Center. 
    • You will be paid on a bi-weekly basis per the UTA pay schedule.

 

  • Will CWEP selected students be paid for the Orientation session and the HR session that are required for all students?
    • Yes, students will be paid for the Orientation Session and the HR Session they are required to attend.

 

ONCE HIRED AND WORKING AT LOCKHEED MARTIN

  • Once hired and I am working at Lockheed Martin, will I have to re-apply or re-interview for my current position each term?
    • No, you will not need to reapply.
    • You only need to apply once for the program unless there is a break in service.
    • As long as you maintain program eligibility, you will remain in the program.
    • UTA will not allow CWEP Students to participate in LMC travel as part of CWEP.
    • Required to give a two-week notice of resignation from the program, schedule an exit interview with the CWEP Coordinator, and return picture/access badge and all LMC assets to LMC security. 

 

PROGRAM CONTACT INFORMATION

  • Who do I contact for CWEP general questions?

 

What is a security clearance? 

It is an authorization by the federal government which permits individuals to be trusted with classified or sensitive information. Different roles may require different levels of security clearance.  

 

What is the purpose of a security clearance?

The purpose of a security clearance is to allow an individual access to classified national security information.

 

What is interim secret clearance and the timeline to get it?

It is a temporary and limited granting of access to classified information until your background investigation is completed. It is routinely granted during security clearance investigation and ended immediately upon conclusion of investigation. The timeline can vary depending on any adverse information. A student should have at least one full year remaining at UTA to be eligible for a clearance.

 

Can I apply for a security clearance on my own?

No. Applicants cannot initiate a security clearance application on their own. Lockheed Martin determines whether a security clearance is required based on the duties and responsibilities of the position as well as the needs of Lockheed Martin. With approval from the student, the Lockheed Martin Manger will notify the CWEP Team if a security clearance is needed.  


Who decides the level of clearance?

The Department of State’s Bureau of Global Talent Management determines whether a position will require a security clearance, as well as the level required, based upon the duties and responsibilities of the position as well as the needs of Lockheed Martin.

 

What work does a security clearance allow a person to do?

A security clearance allows an individual filling a specific position to have access to classified national security information up to and including the level of clearance that they hold if the individual has a “need to know” the information and has signed a non-disclosure agreement.

 

Are members of my family or people living with me subject to a security check?

There are circumstances in which limited record checks or an investigation may be conducted on a spouse or cohabitant.

 

Will my clearance be transferable to other federal agencies?

Reciprocity is the acknowledgement and acceptance of an existing background investigation conducted by an authorized investigative agency; the acceptance of a national security eligibility adjudication determined by an authorized adjudicative agency; and the acceptance of an active national security eligibility determination granted by an executive branch agency. Federal agencies will normally accept another agency’s investigation as the basis for granting a security clearance in accordance with SEAD 7: Reciprocity of Background Investigations and National Security Adjudications. Any significant changes in an applicant’s situation since his or her last investigation may be considered. Some federal agencies might have additional investigative or adjudicative requirements that must be met prior to their accepting a clearance granted by another agency.

 

What are some typical delays that occur in the security clearance process?

Some of the most common delays include the submission of incomplete forms and information, poorly collected fingerprints, and investigations that involve coverage of extensive overseas activities. Applicants can help the process by ensuring that they have completed all forms thoroughly and accurately, and when possible, provided additional references who can verify their activities. A great amount of detailed information is required to conduct a background investigation. Collect additional references, when possible, in case we are unable to reach those initially provided.

 

Why would I be denied a security clearance?

The Adjudicative Guidelines for Determining Eligibility for Access to Classified Information are used by DoD Central Adjudication Facilities (DoDCAF) to determine both initial and continued eligibility for access to classified information. The adjudication process is an examination of a sufficient period within a person's life to make an affirmative determination that the person is an acceptable security risk. Eligibility for access to classified information is predicated upon the individual meeting these personnel security guidelines. The adjudication process is the careful weighing of a number of variables known as the whole-person concept. All available, reliable information about the person—past and present, favorable and unfavorable—is considered in reaching a clearance determination. When an individual's life history shows evidence of unreliability or untrustworthiness, questions arise whether the individual can be relied upon and trusted to exercise the responsibility necessary for working in a secure environment where protection of classified information is paramount.

 

If I am unable to obtain the security clearance, will I be notified of the reason(s) why? 

Yes. You will be notified of the reason(s) and be provided with the procedures for filing an appeal. You will be given the opportunity to address derogatory information that is provided as the basis for denial or revocation. 

 

What about if I have dual citizenship?

Individuals who hold dual citizenship are not precluded from applying. Dual citizenship may raise questions about foreign preferences or loyalty and will need to be resolved before clearance is granted. These concerns will vary from case to case. 

 

Do I need to self-report if I get married or divorced?

Yes. As part of the Security Clearance process, you must self-report any changes in status, adverse information, and foreign contacts as they occur to the Security Office. Remember: if you do not self-report, someone else might. Reporting does not automatically result in revocation of eligibility, so it is in your best interest to self-report.

 

Can I travel outside the country?

Yes. Requirements may be different for each agency, so check with your Security Office for specific travel procedures. Antiterrorism/Force Protection Level 1 training must be current as well as debriefed upon return from travel.

 

How often is a security clearance renewed?

Per Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence (USDI) guidance, the FSO should submit the Top Secret periodic reinvestigation request on the 6th anniversary of the investigation close date found in Diss. Periodic reinvestigation should be submitted every 10 years for a SECRET level clearance and every 15 years for a CONFIDENTIAL level clearance. 

 

What is the process?

If your job requires you to obtain a clearance for to preform your duties, the following steps need to be completed:

  • Submit questionnaire (SF-86)

  • Wait while investigator reviews your paper, and completes fingerprints and background checks

  • If requested, participate in an interview to verify key events in your personal timeline

  • Wait while an adjudicator determines eligibility for national security clearance

  • Receive notice about investigation results

  • Once cleared, Security Brief and Training required

  • Review and sign a Classified Information Nondisclosure Agreement (SF-312)

  • Once cleared, self-reporting obligation on certain aspect(s) of your life

 

What can I do to expedite the process?

A great amount of detailed information is required to conduct a background investigation. Information such as complete names, addresses, telephone numbers, and dates of birth for relatives will be required. The applicant completes an online form for security clearance, and then permits information to be gathered even after form submission. When periodic updates are required, the applicant will only need to update information that has changed since the initial submission. If the applicant would like to preview the type of information that will be required, access the Questionnaire for National Security Positions (Standard Form 86) and begin collecting information so it will be available when needed.

 

What are the benefits of obtaining a security clearance?

The security clearance process can extend for months, and it is expensive. With private sectors that involve working at confidential facilities with information that can only be accessed by a cleared person, having a clearance can improve your marketability. If you are cleared and no application is required, it will expedite the process and save the employer money. Additionally, a security clearance will enable CWEP students more learning opportunities within Lockheed Martin as they have access to more work-related materials and projects that they would not ordinarily have.

 

I am a current CWEP (employed before the official launch of the security clearance process), and my Lockheed Martin Manager wants me to go through the security clearance process. Is this possible? What happens if I am unable to obtain the clearance? What if I do not wish to apply for a security clearance? Will my job be impacted?

Yes. It is still possible to obtain a security clearance if your Lockheed Manager has expressed that to you and the CWEP Team. If you are unable to obtain one or do not wish to apply for a security clearance, there will be no adverse impact on your job. The process for this would be the same for all new clearances. 

  • Submit Application Forms (UT System) 

  • Submit questionnaire (SF-86)

  • Wait while investigator reviews your paper, and completes fingerprints and background checks

  • If requested, participate in an interview to verify key events in your personal timeline

  • Wait while an adjudicator determines eligibility for national security clearance

  • Receive notice about investigation results

  • Once cleared, Security Brief and Training required

  • Review and sign a Classified Information Nondisclosure Agreement (SF-312)

  • Once cleared, self-reporting obligation on certain aspect(s) of your life

 

If I am going through the security clearance process, when will I be able to start work?

Depending on your duties and responsibilities, you may be granted a favorable interim which will allow you to start working before the full background investigation is completed. 

 

I already hold a security clearance. Do I need to transfer the clearance? If yes, what is the process?

In most cases, an individual’s clearance will transfer; however, depending on how long your clearance has been inactive will determine the process. Generally, a clearance can be re-activated within 2 years following the departure of your last cleared position. To re-activate your clearance, the student is required to submit all applications forms that the UT System necessitates, then go through a re-evaluation. If it has been more than 2 years, you will need to start the entire process over.

 

Once UT holds the security clearance and I leave CWEP, is (are) there any action items(s) required on my part?

Once you exit CWEP, you will need to attend a debrief session where you will be given further guidance.

 

Career Development Center

University Center, Suite 180S

817- 272-2932

CWEP@UTA.EDU

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