What happens if I fail/don't pass an NSA background check?

[CapTAINKirk]

So right now I'm debating whether or not to send in my paperwork for an entry level position with the NSA. If I send in this paper work and they nail me on some stuff in my past, either in the background check investigation or in person for the polygraph, will that screw me from ever getting another job offer from the federal government again?

What I'm asking is will it forever be on my file that I couldn't pass an NSA background investigation or polygraph test?

[George W. Maschke]

Yes.

[CapTAINKirk]

thanks, George.

[New Year's Eve]

I like how George puts the answer plain and simple as "yes".  And it is true.  When you fail a polygraph, whether you are rejected for security or suitability reasons, the information is shared with other agencies.  Other agencies will request copies of your entire background check, including your polygraphs, whether the result was positive or negative.  It is up to that new agency to decide what they will do with that information.

I failed the polygraph for a 3-letter agency and got rejected.  Only a few months later another 3-letter agency recruited me, and later rejected me due to having failed that previous poly.  Another agency then hired me, as they did not care about that failed poly.  All of these agencies required TS/SCI.  So as you see, even though they all got the same information about me, one agency didn't hire me as they put all their faith into the almighty poly, the other agency had more common sense and hired one of the best employees they'll ever find!

[CapTAINKirk]

New Years Eve,

I hear you. But in all honesty the NSA doesn't spark that much excitement within me to risk blowing it forever because I don't pass their security background clearance check. I might hold out for something better, just like Will Hunting... 8-)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UrOZllbNarw

[New Year's Eve]

True that, sometimes it is not worth it.  Will Hunting made good points.  Best of luck in whatever you do.