Expert: Tracey Drake - 8/4/2006

Question
Thanks for the response, but I stilla little confused. Can you LEGALLY get a job that is contracted with the Government if you get an "Other Than Honorable" Discharge. I know you cant work for the government or get a job with a company that is contracted with the government if you get a "Dishonorable Discharge", but I was wondering if it is the same with an "Other Than Honorable" Discharge. Thank you.
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Followup To

Question -
Tracey,
Can you still get a government job or work for a company that has a government contract if you get an "Other Than Honorable" Discharge?

Answer -
William -

A service member's type of discharge is usually carried with him or her for life. Employers will often look unfavorably on those who have received so much as a general discharge, especially if it was under other than honorable conditions. Some states, however, prohibit discrimination based on military discharge. Such laws do not prohibit denial of a job due to a criminal conviction, which accompanies punitive separations. You should really check with your own state to determine eligibility.

Keep in mind that companies that hold government contracts often require their employees to be eligibile for various degrees of security clearance. You may or may not be qualified to receive a clearance level due to an other than honorable discharge.

Furthermore, with the tough competition for all government positions, you may find it very difficult to secure any government position with a dishonorable discharge. You might find it is easier to look for employment within the private sector, where you are not required to include your military service discharge information on your resume. Keep in mind that a federal application requires that you disclose your military background and discharge conditions and of course, it is an offense to lie on a federal employment application.

Less than honorable discharges can also be stigmatizing in civilian life, particularly leading to discrimination in employment. Government and large corporate employers routinely ask job applicants for their military discharge status; some even ask to see military discharge papers. However, there are also many employers who do not care about military discharge status. Even where employers ask for military service, sometimes it is mainly for statistical purposes of the number of veterans hired.

I hope this information was helpful, William. Good luck with your job search!

Tracey Drake
GradResumes.com  

Answer
William - It really depends on the reason for the 'Other than Honorable' discharge. There is also a process that you can apply for a pardon, and have it removed, once again depending upon the reason. It is not illegal to apply for positions. However, when they ask for your military background and discharge status, you must be honest about it. Tracey Drake