If you're looking for a job or want to switch careers, government contracting has never looked better. Contractor employment, which is relatively sheltered from the ups and downs of the private sector, is expected to grow. In just one example, the number of IT security personnel on the federal payroll is expected to increase to 61,000 by 2015, many of whom will be contractors.

The good news: Contractors are much the same as any other employer in the way they hire employees. However, there are a few differences. Find out how to navigate them below.

The Big Difference: Clearances

One question you're likely to encounter when interviewing with a contractor is, "Are you eligible for a security clearance?" Take a quick read through the Security Clearance Overview to find out what that question means and whether you can answer it with a "Yes." Then, see whether your credit rating can keep you from getting a clearance.

Expert opinions are divided on whether you should list a current security clearance on your resume. If you've never had one, simply include on your resume the statement "Eligible for a security clearance."

Secure Facilities and Workplaces

Though many contractors work in offices exactly like those in the private sector, you may find yourself interviewing for positions in secure facilities. Most of these positions will require some sort of security clearance.

These facilities are unlike regular offices in that they restrict who -- and what -- can enter and leave. A secure facility can be anything from a Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility (SCIF) within a regular office building to an entire secure building surrounded by high fences and guardposts. The entrance is usually protected by a security guard, metal detector and RFID badge scanner.

Most of these facilities restrict the number and types of gadgets you can bring in with you. Few allow cameras, and the most secure disallow any electronics. Some facilities even require airport-style scans and searches on entry. Once you've received the proper building credentials, however -- which can take anywhere from a day to several months -- entry is as simple as swiping your badge.

Before you're hired, the primary thing you should keep in mind if you're interviewing for a position in a secure facility is that you won't be able to see the actual workplace before starting the job. If physical work environment is an important factor for you, feel free to ask general questions during your interview about how the space is set up.

Is Your Resume Ready?

Like any employer, contractors are attracted to well-written resumes that clearly explain your skills and abilities. You also need to be able to represent yourself well at the interview.

If you need a refresher on either, take a look at these articles:

• Is Your Resume Selling What Employers are Buying?
• The Three Resume Formats You Need
• Ten Resume Kisses of Death
• Last-Minute Resume Checklist
• Ten Ways to Ruin Your Interview

This article is part of GovWin.com's jobs and staffing resources. Check out the GovWin staffing section, ask the experts a question or follow @HireGovCon on Twitter for the latest govcon job listings.

Lindley Ashline is the Web editor at GovWin.com, the network that helps government contractors win new business every day. She can be reached at lindleyashline@deltek.com, or you can follow her on Twitter @lindleyashline.