How to Apply for a Job at Lockheed Martin Fort Worth

Lockheed Martin Fort Worth is one of the most prestigious and technologically advanced aerospace and defense manufacturing centers in the United States. Located in the heart of Texas, the facility plays a pivotal role in the production of next-generation fighter jets—including the F-35 Lightning II—and supports critical national security programs. For professionals seeking careers in engineering, manufacturing, cybersecurity, logistics, and program management, securing a position at Lockheed Martin Fort Worth represents not just a job, but a gateway to shaping the future of aerospace innovation.

Applying for a job at Lockheed Martin Fort Worth is a strategic process that demands preparation, precision, and persistence. Unlike generic job applications, Lockheed Martin’s hiring pipeline is highly competitive, structured, and aligned with federal defense standards. Understanding the nuances of the application process—from crafting a defense-ready resume to navigating the company’s internal ATS—can significantly increase your chances of success.

This comprehensive guide walks you through every stage of applying for a job at Lockheed Martin Fort Worth. Whether you’re a recent graduate, a veteran transitioning to civilian work, or an experienced professional seeking a career shift, this tutorial provides actionable steps, insider best practices, essential tools, real-world examples, and answers to frequently asked questions—all designed to maximize your candidacy.

Step-by-Step Guide

Research Lockheed Martin Fort Worth and Its Mission

Before you begin applying, invest time in understanding Lockheed Martin’s Fort Worth operations. Visit the official Lockheed Martin website and navigate to the Fort Worth facility page. Learn about the programs they lead, such as the F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter program, which is the largest defense program in history. Understand the core values of the company: integrity, mission success, and customer satisfaction.

Review recent news releases from the facility—such as new contract awards, workforce expansions, or technology upgrades. This knowledge will not only inform your application but will also help you tailor your responses during interviews. Demonstrating familiarity with the facility’s strategic goals signals genuine interest and initiative.

Identify the Right Job Categories

Lockheed Martin Fort Worth hires across multiple disciplines. The most common roles include:

• Electrical, Mechanical, and Aerospace Engineers
• Manufacturing Technicians and Assembly Specialists
• Quality Assurance and Inspection Professionals
• Supply Chain and Logistics Coordinators
• Software Developers and Cybersecurity Analysts
• Program Managers and Systems Engineers
• Technical Writers and Documentation Specialists
• Security Clearance Specialists

Each role has distinct requirements. For example, engineering roles often require a bachelor’s degree in a STEM field and familiarity with CAD software like SolidWorks or CATIA. Manufacturing positions may require certifications such as AS9100 or IPC-A-610. Cybersecurity roles typically demand CompTIA Security+ or CISSP credentials.

Use the job categories as a filter when searching. Avoid applying randomly. Target roles that align with your education, certifications, and hands-on experience.

Prepare Your Resume for Defense Industry Standards

Lockheed Martin uses an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) to screen resumes. Unlike consumer-facing companies, defense contractors prioritize keyword matching, compliance terminology, and clear project-based outcomes.

Follow these resume guidelines:

• Use job-specific keywords: Include terms like “AS9100,” “ITAR,” “DFARS,” “NIST 800-53,” “MIL-STD,” “Configuration Management,” and “DoD Clearance.”
• Quantify achievements: Instead of “Managed production line,” write “Led a team of 12 technicians to increase F-35 wing assembly throughput by 18% over six months.”
• Highlight security clearance status: If you hold an active DoD clearance (Secret, Top Secret, SCI), state it prominently. If you’re eligible for clearance, write “Eligible for U.S. Government Security Clearance.”
• Exclude personal information: Do not include your photo, marital status, or age. Defense resumes are evaluated purely on professional merit.
• Format for ATS compatibility: Use standard headings like “Professional Experience,” “Education,” and “Certifications.” Avoid graphics, columns, or fancy fonts. Save as a .docx or plain .pdf.

Example of a strong bullet point:

Senior Systems Engineer, Northrop Grumman – 2020–2023

Designed and validated avionics integration protocols for F-16 modernization program; reduced system integration errors by 30% through automated test scripts written in Python. Collaborated with 15 cross-functional teams across 3 sites. Maintained compliance with MIL-STD-882E and DoD 5000.2.

Apply Through the Official Lockheed Martin Careers Portal

Lockheed Martin does not accept applications via third-party job boards or email. All submissions must be made through the official Lockheed Martin Careers website: https://www.lockheedmartin.com/en-us/careers.html.

Follow these steps:

1. Go to the careers page and click “Search Jobs.”
2. Use the location filter to select “Fort Worth, TX.”
3. Refine your search by job category, experience level (Entry Level, Mid, Senior), or job type (Full-time, Internship, Contract).
4. Click on the job title to view the full description, including required qualifications, preferred skills, and essential functions.
5. Click “Apply Now.” You will be prompted to create a profile if you don’t already have one.
6. Upload your tailored resume and cover letter (if required).
7. Complete the online application form, including demographic information and work authorization details.
8. Answer any job-specific screening questions. These often relate to security clearance eligibility, shift availability, or technical competencies.
9. Review all entries and submit.

After submission, you will receive an automated confirmation email. Save this for your records. The system may take 3–10 business days to process your application. Do not reapply for the same position—this may flag your profile.

Prepare for the Screening Interview

If your application passes the ATS and HR screening, you’ll be contacted for a preliminary phone or video interview. This is typically conducted by a Lockheed Martin recruiter or HR specialist.

Be prepared to answer questions such as:

• Why are you interested in working at Lockheed Martin Fort Worth specifically?
• Describe a time you worked under strict compliance guidelines.
• How do you handle conflicting priorities in a high-pressure environment?
• Are you able to obtain or maintain a U.S. security clearance?
• Are you willing to work rotating shifts or overtime during production surges?

Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers. Be concise, professional, and avoid jargon unless it’s industry-specific.

Also, be ready to discuss your resume in detail. Recruiters may ask you to elaborate on any project, certification, or employment gap. Practice explaining transitions clearly and positively.

Technical or Behavioral Assessment

Many technical roles at Lockheed Martin Fort Worth require a skills assessment. This may include:

• Online coding tests (for software roles)
• Engineering problem-solving scenarios
• Quality control simulations
• Security protocols quizzes

For engineering and technical positions, expect questions on FAA/DOD standards, GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing), or systems integration. For manufacturing roles, you may be asked to interpret blueprints or identify defects in simulated assemblies.

Practice using free resources like:

• EngineerGirl.org for engineering fundamentals
• Quizlet for DoD compliance terminology
• LeetCode or HackerRank for coding assessments

Some assessments are timed. Practice under time pressure to simulate real conditions.

Onsite or Virtual Interview with Hiring Manager

If you pass the screening and assessment phases, you’ll be invited for a deeper interview with the hiring manager and possibly team leads. This interview is more technical and scenario-based.

Potential questions:

• Walk us through your experience with F-35 subsystems or similar platforms.
• How would you handle a discrepancy found during final inspection?
• Describe your approach to root cause analysis.
• How do you ensure documentation accuracy in a fast-paced production environment?

Bring examples of your work (if permitted under NDA). For engineers: schematics you’ve designed. For technicians: inspection logs you’ve maintained. For project managers: Gantt charts or risk matrices you’ve created.

Dress professionally—even for virtual interviews. Maintain eye contact, speak clearly, and ask thoughtful questions at the end:

• What does success look like in this role in the first 90 days?
• How does the team collaborate across shifts and departments?
• What are the biggest technical challenges the Fort Worth facility is currently facing?

These questions demonstrate strategic thinking and long-term interest.

Security Clearance Process

Most positions at Lockheed Martin Fort Worth require a U.S. government security clearance. The process begins after a conditional job offer is extended.

You’ll complete the SF-86 (Questionnaire for National Security Positions). This is a detailed form covering:

• Personal history (residences, employment, education over 10 years)
• Foreign contacts and travel
• Financial history
• Criminal record
• Substance use

Accuracy is critical. Inconsistencies or omissions can delay or disqualify your clearance. Be honest—even if you’ve had past financial issues or minor legal infractions. Many applicants are cleared with disclosures if they demonstrate rehabilitation and responsibility.

The investigation may include interviews with references, neighbors, former employers, and educational institutions. Allow 3–12 months for clearance processing, depending on level (Secret, Top Secret, SCI).

While waiting, stay in contact with your recruiter. Provide any requested documentation promptly.

Receive and Accept the Offer

If selected, you’ll receive a formal offer letter via email or secure portal. Review the offer carefully:

• Confirm the job title, start date, and location
• Verify compensation, benefits, and bonus structure
• Check for relocation assistance (if applicable)
• Understand the probationary period (typically 90 days)

Lockheed Martin offers competitive salaries, comprehensive health coverage, 401(k) matching, tuition reimbursement, and flexible work arrangements for eligible roles.

Once you accept, you’ll be onboarded through the company’s HR system. You’ll receive instructions for background checks, badge issuance, safety training, and IT setup.

Best Practices

Start Early and Apply Consistently

Lockheed Martin Fort Worth hires year-round, but hiring surges occur in Q1 and Q3 due to fiscal year planning and program milestones. Begin your search at least 6–8 months before your ideal start date. Apply to multiple roles that match your profile—even if they’re not your “dream job.” Each application builds experience and improves your ATS score.

Network Strategically

While Lockheed Martin doesn’t rely on referrals for initial screening, internal referrals can accelerate review times. Connect with current employees on LinkedIn. Join groups like “Lockheed Martin Fort Worth Alumni” or “Defense Industry Professionals in Texas.” Attend virtual career fairs hosted by the company. Engage with posts and comment thoughtfully.

Don’t ask for a referral outright. Build rapport first. Ask for advice: “I’m interested in manufacturing roles at Fort Worth—what skills do you think are most valuable for new hires?”

Highlight Transferable Military Experience

Over 25% of Lockheed Martin Fort Worth employees are veterans. If you have military service, translate your experience into civilian terms. For example:

• “Avionics Technician, U.S. Air Force” → “Certified Aircraft Systems Technician with 5+ years maintaining F-16 avionics under MIL-STD-810 standards.”
• “Platoon Leader” → “Led cross-functional team of 18 personnel in high-stakes operational environments; maintained 100% mission readiness.”

Use the Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) crosswalk tool on the Lockheed Martin careers site to match your military role with civilian equivalents.

Emphasize Compliance and Quality Mindset

Defense contractors operate under strict regulatory frameworks. Demonstrate awareness of:

• ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations)
• DFARS (Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement)
• AS9100 (Aerospace Quality Management)
• NIST 800-53 (Cybersecurity Controls)

Even if you haven’t worked directly with these standards, mention related experience: “Followed strict documentation protocols in a regulated manufacturing environment,” or “Maintained audit-ready records for ISO 9001 compliance.”

Stay Organized and Track Your Applications

Create a simple spreadsheet to track:

• Job title and ID
• Application date
• Recruiter contact (if provided)
• Interview stages completed
• Follow-up dates

Set calendar reminders to follow up after 10 business days if you haven’t heard back. A polite email like this can make a difference:

“Dear [Recruiter Name], I’m very enthusiastic about the [Job Title] role at Fort Worth and wanted to express my continued interest. I’ve attached my updated resume for your reference. Please let me know if you need any additional information. Thank you for your time and consideration.”

Prepare for Long-Term Growth

Lockheed Martin invests heavily in employee development. Once hired, you’ll have access to:

• Technical certification reimbursement (e.g., PMP, Six Sigma, AWS)
• Leadership training programs
• Internal mobility opportunities

Think beyond the first job. Ask during interviews: “What pathways exist for advancement in this department?” Showing ambition aligned with company goals makes you a more attractive candidate.

Tools and Resources

Official Resources

• Lockheed Martin Careers Portal – https://www.lockheedmartin.com/en-us/careers.html
• Fort Worth Facility Page – https://www.lockheedmartin.com/en-us/locations/fort-worth.html
• Military Transition Tool – https://www.lockheedmartin.com/en-us/careers/military-transition.html
• Lockheed Martin Employee Resource Groups – Explore groups like Women’s Initiative Network, Veterans Network, and STEM Outreach for insights.

Resume and ATS Optimization Tools

• Jobscan – Paste your resume and job description to check keyword alignment.
• ResumeWorded – AI-powered resume reviews with defense industry templates.
• LinkedIn Resume Builder – Export clean, ATS-friendly versions.

Practice and Skill Development Platforms

• Coursera – Courses on DoD acquisition, aerospace engineering, and cybersecurity.
• Udemy – Search for “AS9100,” “GD&T,” or “ITAR Compliance.”
• edX – Free MIT and Stanford aerospace modules.
• ASQ.org – Access quality control standards and certification prep.

Industry News and Insights

• Defense News – https://www.defensenews.com
• Aviation Week – https://aviationweek.com
• Lockheed Martin Newsroom – https://www.lockheedmartin.com/en-us/newsroom.html

Community and Support Networks

• Texas Workforce Commission – Defense Industry Partnerships – Offers free resume workshops and job fairs in Fort Worth.
• Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce – Defense Sector Events – Attend local networking events.
• Reddit Communities – r/lockheedmartin, r/DefenseJobs, r/AerospaceEngineering

Real Examples

Example 1: Engineering Graduate Lands Role Through Internship

Emily Rodriguez, a recent mechanical engineering graduate from Texas A&M University, applied for a summer internship at Lockheed Martin Fort Worth. She tailored her resume to highlight her senior design project: “Design of a Lightweight Composite Wing Spar for UAV Applications.”

She included keywords like “Finite Element Analysis,” “ANSYS,” and “Composite Material Testing.” She applied to three roles—internship, entry-level engineer, and manufacturing support—and was invited to interview for the internship.

During the interview, she discussed her project’s compliance with FAA Part 23 standards and her ability to work in a team environment. She was offered the internship and later converted to a full-time position as a Structural Analysis Engineer after graduation.

Her advice: “Don’t underestimate internships. They’re the fastest path to full-time roles at defense contractors.”

Example 2: Veteran Transitions to Quality Assurance Role

James Carter, a former U.S. Navy Aviation Structural Mechanic with 12 years of service, was unsure how to transition his skills. He used the Lockheed Martin Military Transition Tool and discovered his MOS (AM-2100) aligned with “Aircraft Maintenance Technician – Quality Control.”

He rewrote his resume using civilian terminology: “Conducted 500+ pre-flight inspections on F/A-18 aircraft; maintained 100% compliance with NAVAIR Technical Orders.” He applied and was invited for a phone interview.

He prepared by studying AS9100 standards and took a free online course on quality auditing. He passed the screening, completed a practical inspection simulation, and received an offer within three weeks. He now leads a quality team in the F-35 final assembly line.

His advice: “Your military experience is valuable. You just have to speak the language the civilian world understands.”

Example 3: Cybersecurity Professional Moves from Private Sector

Shanice Moore worked in healthcare IT security and wanted to shift to defense. She studied NIST 800-53 and earned her CompTIA Security+ certification. She applied for a “Cybersecurity Analyst – Systems Integration” role at Fort Worth.

Her resume emphasized her experience securing HIPAA-compliant systems and managing vulnerability scans—skills transferable to DoD environments. She passed the technical assessment, which included identifying vulnerabilities in a simulated avionics network.

She was offered the position and is now supporting secure data flow between F-35 production lines and command centers. She completed her Secret clearance within six months.

Her advice: “Defense cybersecurity isn’t radically different—it’s just more regulated. Master the frameworks, and you’ll succeed.”

FAQs

Do I need a security clearance to apply?

No, you do not need an active clearance to apply. Many roles are open to candidates who are eligible for clearance. However, if you already hold a clearance, highlight it prominently—it significantly strengthens your application.

How long does the hiring process take?

Typically 4–12 weeks, depending on the role and clearance requirements. Technical positions with high clearance needs may take longer due to background investigations.

Can I apply for multiple positions at once?

Yes. You can apply for up to three roles simultaneously. However, ensure each application is tailored. Generic applications are often filtered out by the ATS.

Is there an age limit to apply?

No. Lockheed Martin hires candidates of all ages, including veterans and retirees returning to work. The only requirement is legal authorization to work in the United States.

What if I don’t have a degree?

Many manufacturing, technician, and skilled trades roles do not require a four-year degree. Certifications, military experience, or associate degrees in technical fields are often sufficient. Look for roles labeled “Entry Level” or “Technical.”

Does Lockheed Martin offer remote work?

Some administrative, IT, and engineering roles offer hybrid or remote options. However, production, assembly, and facility-based roles require on-site presence due to physical infrastructure and security protocols.

Are there internships or co-op programs?

Yes. Lockheed Martin offers robust internship and co-op programs for students in engineering, computer science, business, and manufacturing. These are excellent pathways to full-time employment.

What’s the starting salary at Lockheed Martin Fort Worth?

Salaries vary by role and experience. Entry-level engineers typically start at $70,000–$85,000. Manufacturing technicians start around $55,000–$65,000. Cybersecurity analysts range from $80,000–$100,000. Benefits and bonuses are included in total compensation.

Can non-U.S. citizens apply?

Most positions require U.S. citizenship due to ITAR and export control regulations. A very limited number of non-sensitive roles may be open to lawful permanent residents (green card holders), but these are rare and highly restricted.

How do I follow up after applying?

Wait 10–14 business days, then send a polite, concise email to the recruiter listed on the job posting. Avoid calling unless instructed. A well-timed follow-up shows initiative without being pushy.

Conclusion

Applying for a job at Lockheed Martin Fort Worth is more than submitting a resume—it’s a strategic alignment between your skills and the nation’s most advanced aerospace programs. The process is rigorous, but it’s designed to identify candidates who are not only technically competent but also committed to excellence, compliance, and mission-critical outcomes.

By following the steps outlined in this guide—researching the facility, tailoring your application materials, mastering the interview process, and navigating security clearance requirements—you position yourself as a serious and prepared candidate. The tools, best practices, and real examples provided here are not theoretical; they are the proven pathways used by successful applicants.

Remember: Lockheed Martin doesn’t just hire workers—they build careers. The Fort Worth facility is a hub of innovation, where your contributions directly impact national security and global defense capabilities. Whether you’re an engineer, technician, analyst, or project manager, your work here will matter.

Start today. Research one role. Revise your resume. Apply. The future of aerospace is being built in Fort Worth—and it needs people like you.