Why DoD Certifications Matter Now More Than Ever?
That’s why understanding DoD-approved certifications, especially under 8570 and 8140 rules, is crucial. Whether you’re filling a basic IT helpdesk role or a senior cybersecurity position with a security clearance, you need to know what to look for.
At CCS Global Tech, we specialize in helping federal agencies and defense contractors hire security-cleared professionals who already hold the required certifications. This guide will help you get started.
The Big Two: DoD 8570 vs. DoD 8140
What Is DoD 8570?
The DoD 8570 directive sets the basic training and certification requirements for anyone working in IT security roles across federal agencies. It lists which certifications are acceptable for specific job types like CompTIA Security+ for entry-level or CISSP for advanced roles.
In short:
- 8570 is still valid and widely used.
- 8140 is the newer, more flexible model being rolled out across agencies.
Certifications That Make or Break a Candidate
For federal IT hiring, certifications are more than proof of skills—they’re often required by law or contract. Without the right certification, your candidate might not be allowed to start work, especially on cleared or classified projects.
Here are the top certifications hiring managers should know about, grouped by job level:
Entry-Level & Mid-Tier Roles
For support techs, helpdesk staff, or junior admins:
- CompTIA Security+ (required for many DoD 8570 roles)
- CompTIA Network+
- Cisco CCNA
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900)
These are commonly needed for IAT Level I and II jobs under the DoD 8570 certification list
Cybersecurity Analysts & Engineers
For mid-level cyber defense roles:
- Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
- Cisco CyberOps Associate
- GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC)
- CompTIA CySA+
- Certified Network Defender (CND)
These fit under CSSP job categories in 8570/8140, such as analyst or auditor.
Senior Security Roles
For managers, architects, or advanced engineers:
- CISSP – Certified Information Systems Security Professional
- CISM – Certified Information Security Manager
- CASP+ – CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner
- CRISC – Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control
- GSLC – GIAC Security Leadership Certification
These are key for IAM or IASAE categories under the DoD 8140 framework.
How to Read the DoD Certification Matrix?
The official DoD certification chart can be overwhelming at first. But once you break it down by role type, it becomes easier.
Here’s a simple breakdown:
- IAT (Information Assurance Technical) – hands-on IT jobs like helpdesk or systems support.
- IAM (Information Assurance Management) – leadership and compliance-focused jobs.
- CSSP (Cybersecurity Service Provider) – cybersecurity defense and monitoring.
- IASAE (Information Assurance System Architect and Engineer) – high-level design and risk analysis roles.
Each of these role types lists approved certifications under both the 8570 and 8140 systems. Make sure you match the certificate to the job title.
Why It Matters for Hiring Timelines
If your hire doesn’t have the right certification, they often can’t start work, especially in cleared federal environments. That can delay projects, cause contract issues, or even cost you the role entirely.
At CCS Global Tech, we’ve seen these common issues:
- Delays in onboarding due to missing or expired certificates project stalled because no certified staff were available.
- Unplanned training costs after hiring someone who wasn’t eligible.
Practical Tips for DoD Hiring Managers
You don’t need to be a cybersecurity expert to hire one—you just need a smart process. Here are a few steps that work:
- List certification requirements in job posts: Be specific, like “Must hold Security+ or equivalent (8570 Level II)”.
- Ask for certificate proof during screening: Collect certificate numbers and expiration dates.
- Use a staffing partner with federal experience: They can deliver cleared and certified talent fast.
- Track certificate renewals: Many certifications, like Security+, must be renewed every 3 years.
The Bottom Line: Certifications Aren’t Optional - They’re Operational
In the world of federal IT and cybersecurity hiring, certifications are essential. They prove a candidate has the knowledge and the authority to access sensitive systems. More importantly, they help your team stay compliant with DoD rules and keep projects moving forward.
At CCS Global Tech, we’ve built a strong pipeline of certified, security-cleared professionals across the country, ready to support your mission. From helpdesk to high-level cybersecurity architects, we’ll help you hire smarter and faster.
FAQs
Q1: Are DoD 8570 and 8140 certifications still both valid?
Yes. 8570 is still in use, but the DoD is moving toward 8140 as the newer model.
Q2: What’s the difference between IAT and IAM roles?
IAT jobs are hands-on IT roles. IAM roles are management and oversight positions.
Q3: Can contractors also meet certification requirements?
Yes. Both contractors and full-time federal staff must meet the same certification rules.
Q4: How fast can I hire someone with the right certificate?
With CCS Global Tech, we can often place certified and cleared professionals within days.
Q5: What happens if I hire someone without a certificate?
They may not be allowed to work on the project until they get certified, which could delay timelines and impact compliance.
Q6: What percentage of certified candidates fail security clearance?
- General clearance approval rates
- Common disqualifiers for certified pros
- How to pre-screen (link to CCS clearance guide)
Q7: What's the cost difference between hiring pre-certified vs training existing staff?
- Salary premiums for certified hires
- Training timelines/costs
- ROI calculator (embedded tool)
Q8:Where do most candidates fail DoD certification exams?
- Top 3 failed exam sections (per 2024 DoD data)
- Study resource recommendations
- CCS exam prep pass rates
Q9: How long does CISSP certification remain valid for DoD contracts?
3-year validity → CEU requirements → reciprocity with other certs like CISM.
Q10: What's the fastest path to get candidates DoD 8570-compliant?
- Fastest: Existing cert holders (list most common compliant certs)
- Mid-path: Bridge courses (link to CCS accelerated programs)
- Long-term: Full certification prep
