The Hunter - April 2021
Thursday, April 1, 2021
In This Issue
Careers for Veterans with TSMC
How to Elevate Your Job Search in 2021
Comcast’s Military Concierge Team Supports Employees Serving in the Reserves and National Guard
VA Refinance Loan FAQ with Mutual of Omaha Mortgage
Exclusive Opportunities Through Orion
Podcast Series for Job Seekers
Career Transition Planning and Base Visits
Earn $100 for Every Referral that Finds their Career through Orion
Careers for Veterans with TSMC
Orion has recently partnered with TSMC, the world’s first dedicated semiconductor foundry, to provide rewarding careers for veterans and transitioning servicemembers.
Headquartered in Hsinchu, Taiwan, TSMC pioneered the pure-play foundry business model by focusing solely on manufacturing customers’ products. By choosing not to design, manufacture or market any semiconductor products under its own name, the company ensures that it never competes directly with its customers. Today, TSMC is the world’s largest semiconductor foundry, manufacturing 10,761 different products using 272 distinct technologies for 499 different customers in 2019. TSMC is the first foundry to provide 5-nanometer production capabilities, the most advanced semiconductor process technology available in the world.
TSMC has partnered with Orion to hire Equipment Engineers for its planned $12 billion facility in Phoenix, AZ, with construction beginning this year. As part of this hiring initiative, new hires will start work in Taiwan and will transfer to the Phoenix plant once construction is complete.
TSMC strives to provide a working environment that takes care of its employees’ physical, mental, and spiritual needs. Benefits include comprehensive health insurance, paid leave, and financial security.
If you are interested in a career with TSMC as an Equipment Engineer, visit us online to learn more and apply for a career with TSMC.
How to Elevate Your Job Search in 2021
Whether you are looking for a job after the military or looking for a new career, the job market will undoubtedly be different this year. The pandemic has changed how hiring is being done (virtual onboarding) and also how work is done (working from home and virtual meetings, to name a few).
While some aspects of the job search will go back to how it was before, there are some changes that are here to stay. Be aware of these changes and you’ll be able to get a leg up in the job search.
Your social media presence will become extremely important. Because hiring managers won’t be able to give in-person interviews, your digital presence will be one aspect that they will rely on heavily. Clean up your accounts (no profanity, political, or other questionable commentary). You can also use LinkedIn to develop content that will give you an edge. Share articles about an industry that you are interested in, and be an active presence in those circles.
Your “soft skills” will be more desirable than your experience. “Soft skills” are attributes that cannot be learned or obtained through experience, but rather character traits and abilities, like teamwork, motivation, problem-solving, critical thinking, etc. As a military member, the soft skills that you acquired in the military are heavily sought after and held in high esteem. Many hiring managers will want to focus on sourcing and cultivating talented employees with desirable soft skills.
A position’s location may not matter as much. With remote work becoming the norm, a position that you normally wouldn’t apply for due to the location is now a possibility.
Online networking will continue to grow. Online networking has increasingly become a time-efficient tool to keep in touch with contacts and get plugged into a community. One of the best ways to network virtually is LinkedIn. You can search by industry, region, and interest-specific groups to expand your personal network. Listen to our podcast for more tips on how to use LinkedIn for online networking and to leverage your job search.
The job search landscape will look very different this year than in past years. While that can certainly add some hurdles to your job search, there are a lot of ways you can pursue your next opportunity and stand out even in the current COVID environment.
Check out our latest podcast episode on how to maximize your job search in 2021, including how to get past computer resume scanners and get your resume into human hands, how to build your network remotely, the importance of evaluating your online presence, and common virtual interview questions. If you’re ready to begin your job search, register on our site to get started with a Recruiter.
Comcast’s Military Concierge Team Supports Employees Serving in the Reserves and National Guard
As one of the nation’s leading military-friendly organizations, Comcast NBCUniversal assures its commitment to veterans, Service members, military spouses, and their families with an extensive array of benefits and programs tailored to the unique needs of the military and veteran community. One of these elements, the Comcast NBCUniversal’s Military Concierge program, specifically supports Comcast employees who deploy as members of the National Guard and Reserves.
“As a Military Concierge, my role is to provide support for our military Service members,” says Andrew Furlong, a human resources specialist and a member of the Military Concierge Team. “Some of the things I do in this role are placing employees on their military leave of absence and helping them transition back to the workplace when their duty is complete. I also stay in touch with our military employees while they are fulfilling their military duties in case they have any questions that come up in managing their day-to-day responsibilities, making sure they're aware of the Comcast military benefits and that they're utilizing everything properly and not missing out while performing their military duty.”
Furlong is part of a unique team that Comcast NBCUniversal officially launched Jan. 1, 2016, but has grown to accommodate and support hundreds of Comcast employees who also serve in the National Guard and Reserves. As employees prepare for mobilizations or Reserve Duty, there are significant affairs to manage both personally and professionally. The Military Concierge Team removes the stress for these employees and coordinates on their behalf with the various departments to ensure a smooth transition both on and off military orders. “We routinely collaborate with other groups within Comcast,” says Furlong. “I connect daily with local management to make sure that they understand military leave and duty and are providing full support to our employees,” he explains.
Furlong and the rest of the Military Concierge Team also play a pivotal role in partnering with the payroll department to help employees with their military supplemental pay benefit, a great benefit that ensures employees do not have a gap in pay while on military orders. The Team also coordinates with other departments such as Comcast Legal and Compliance to ensure that any changes that occur while on military orders are executed within the framework of the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA) to make sure Comcast supports its military employees to the best of its ability. “The bottom line is it’s my job to make sure everything is managed as quickly and orderly as possible for our employees who serve in the National Guard and Reserves to depart on military orders and go do their jobs,” he says.
Since its inception, the Military Concierge Team has supported hundreds of deployments and mobilizations supporting global missions, natural disasters and most recently, deployments supporting COVID-19 operations. “Our employees are going to potentially be in a dangerous situation. They’ll be on the front lines somewhere, so we want to make sure that we don't have anything to stress or worry about at Comcast, allowing them to fully focus on their assigned military mission,” Furlong explains.
The employee resource group, Veterans Network, or VetNet, also provides support to all Comcast employees who want to support the military community. The group, like all ERGs, allows employees to connect, communicate, and meet with other like-minded individuals and families. “And you don’t have to be a veteran or Service member to join the group,” says Furlong. “VetNet is made up of a group of employees across the organization who have or are serving and those who want to support them and their families. It’s tremendous to see what this group does both to support the military community at Comcast, but also to see what it accomplishes in their local communities,” he says.
Comcast NBCUniversal’s enduring commitment to supporting those who have dedicated their lives to service extends beyond just hiring a few transitioning Service members, veterans, or military spouses. From its military hiring initiatives to the Military Concierge Team to VetNet, Comcast NBCUniversal truly is more than just military friendly; they are military ready.
Working at Comcast has really shown me what it means to be part of a team, says Furlong. “Every job I had, I stayed in my own lane and I really just got my job done. Coming here really expanded my mind, seeing that Comcast is really a place where working together and collaborating is so important. It's so encouraging,” he continues. The pride I see that our military employees have both in their mission and Comcast, gives me so much pride in what I do,” says Furlong. “We are a family, so if you join the Comcast Team, as a Service member or civilian, be ready to meet your teammates and start working together from day one.”
Author: Alison Marcua
The story above highlights a veteran at Comcast, committed to including talented members of the military community in its workplace. Comcast is a client of Hirepurpose, an Orion Talent company. Learn More.
VA Refinance Loan FAQ with Mutual of Omaha Mortgage
Orion has partnered with Mutual of Omaha Mortgage to provide exclusive VA home loan benefits to our veteran job seekers and alumni. Through this partnership you will receive the same loan rate and better fees than Mutual of Omaha Mortgage employees receive, as well as no lender fees and generous rebates.
If you are a homeowner currently utilizing a VA loan, Mutual Of Omaha Mortgage has answered some of the frequently asked questions about VA refinance loans.
VA REFINANCE LOAN FAQ
What is a VA streamline refinance?
The VA streamline refinance loan is also known as the VA IRRRL. The VA streamline refinance is often a simple loan process because the borrowers are refinancing from one VA mortgage loan to another VA loan. This loan is often also referred to as VA-to-VA Loan. A VA streamline refinance is not available to homeowners who do not currently have a VA mortgage loan. The VA streamline refinance loan does not require that the borrowers occupy the home which is currently financed with a VA mortgage product.
What is a VA IRRRL?
The VA IRRRL loan is also known as the VA refinance or the VA streamline refinance. The acronym IRRL stands for interest rate refinance reduction loan. The VA IRRRL loan or VA streamline refinance is a special type of refinance loan made available by the VA Loan Guaranty program. The VA IRRRL loan is a fixed-rate refinance loan program. This loan is ideal for homeowners who currently have a VA mortgage loan who are looking to lower their monthly interest rate.
Can you refinance a VA loan?
Yes, if you are currently a homeowner whose property is financed via a VA mortgage loan you can apply for a conventional, FHA or VA refinance. Depending on the rate and terms a borrower is seeking, they have the option to review any type of refinance loan to replace their current VA mortgage loan.
How soon can you refinance a VA loan?
Depending on the level of risk associated with a borrower, most lenders would typically require the homeowner have their current VA mortgage loan for a minimum of 12 months prior to applying for a refinance. Payment history is one of the most crucial factors in determining a borrower's risk level for a VA refinance.
Can I refinance my mortgage with a VA loan?
Yes, if you are actively serving military, honorable discharge, veteran or the surviving spouse of any of the previous who is currently the borrower of a VA home loan you may refinance your property with a VA streamline refinance or VA IRRRL loan. The VA streamline refinance or VA IRRRL loan is only available to homeowners who currently have a VA mortgage loan. VA refinance loan products are not available to civilians or the general public.
Can I refinance a conventional loan to a VA loan?
Yes, a borrower who is eligible for VA benefits can refinance from a conventional loan to a VA loan. Although this is not typical, there is no restriction that prevents this. To be eligible for a VA loan a borrower must be actively serving in the U.S. military, have received an honorable discharge, be a veteran or the surviving spouse. If a borrower who currently has a conventional loan opts to refinance with a VA loan the loan process could take longer than average because different documentation will need to be reviewed that was not previously received and underwritten by a VA approved lender.
When to refinance a VA loan?
The decision to refinance a home should not be taken lightly. It is important for a homeowner to evaluate and determine their financial goals. If a homeowner is seeking the opportunity to lower their monthly interest rate or transition from an adjustable rate mortgage loan to a fixed rate program, then a refinance could be a great opportunity. Speaking with an experienced loan originator can help a borrower review their income, assets, and debt to determine if a refinance is the right decision.
How long does it take to refinance a VA loan?
If a VA borrower uses the VA IRRRL loan or VA streamline refinance, the entire process can be completed in 30 to 45 days. Although the VA streamline refinance or VA IRRRL loan does not require income verification, in order for the VA refinance process to move forward, a borrower must have the following qualifications:
- VA Loan eligibility of the borrower must have been used on the property intended for refinance
- Most recent two years of W-2 statements to establish income
- Ability to document current or previous occupancy of the property
- Confirmation of currency on mortgage payments or no more than one late payment in the last 12 months
Visit us online to learn more about Mutual of Omaha Mortgage, and apply to get a personal loan offer from their knowledgeable team.
Exclusive Opportunities Through Orion
According to Your Peers
Career Success with Orion
Podcast Series for Job Seekers
Have you tuned in to From the Battlefield to the Boardroom, our podcast series dedicated to supporting military job seekers? We have a variety of episodes covering everything from the civilian transition process to valuable insights and guidance from other Veterans and business leaders.
We've recently added new podcasts, including:
139. Army Veteran's Entrepreneurial Journey "Land Shark"
138. Become the CEO of Your Life ft. Navy Veteran / Entrepreneur
137. 5 Things To Keep in Mind When You Begin a Civilian Career
136. 5 Tips for Maximizing Your Job Search During COVID
135. Veteran Career Readiness with Mike Abrams, Founder of FourBlock
Visit us online to listen to all the episodes, and explore our new podcast categories on each stage of the transition process. You can also subscribe via your favorite podcast platform or RSS feed, to automatically receive new episodes as they are released.
We'd love to feature your questions in our upcoming episodes. If you have any questions you'd like to hear us answer, click below to email us!
Join the Orion Team
Account Executive Careers with Orion
Orion Talent is currently seeking transitioning or former military officers with a strong record of achievement to join our Sales Team as an Account Executive. We are hiring for our San Diego, CA office.
As an Account Executive, you will be responsible for identifying and working closely with America's leading companies in order for them to hire transitioning military veterans and develop smarter hiring programs. Average total first year income for Account Executives is $80K+, with a goal of $100K+ in your second year and beyond.
To qualify, you should have military experience, a Bachelors degree, and a desire to succeed in sales. You do not need prior sales experience, as we will provide you the training, tools and resources needed to succeed.
Visit our Account Executive Careers with Orion Talent page to learn more about working at Orion, including a video, podcast, and webinar on our Account Executive positions.
If you're looking for a quick way to introduce yourself, please send an email that includes your resume to Isabel Jessee.
Business Development Director Careers with Orion
Orion Talent is currently seeking transitioning or former military to join our Sales Team as a Business Development Director. This position will be remote.
As a Business Development Director, you will be responsible for the identification, selling, and expansion of accounts in a specific designated industry, to include Finance/Accounting, Medical, Technology, IT, Construction, or others. This is a national position able to penetrate deeply into the vertical while developing into a subject matter expert. Compensation for the Business Development Director position is $80K-$150K.
Visit our Current Openings page to learn more about the Business Development Director position and to apply, or please send an email that includes your resume to Chris Hurst or Bob Berkholz.
Career Transition Planning and Base Visits
Our virtual base visits are a chance to get a jump start on your career search, regardless of your ETS date. Our Recruiters will discuss your goals and preferences with you and present a realistic picture of what to expect in your search. You'll get resume advice, interview preparation tips, and much more!
We will be holding virtual base visits for JMOs and Degreed NCOs on the following dates:
March 19 - San Diego, CA area
March 26 - Norfolk, VA area
April 16 - Fort Hood, TX
April 23 - Fort Bragg, NC
If you would like to attend, please fill out this form or contact Morgan Causie.
Earn $100 for Every Referral that Finds their Career through Orion
Did you know that Orion candidates earned $34,400 in referral bonuses through the fourth quarter of 2020?
For every job seeker you refer to us who is subsequently hired through Orion, you'll receive a $100 gift card to a retailer of your choice after they reach 90 days on the new job!
It's simple - just click here to refer a friend. 30 seconds of your time could be $100 in your pocket!
Companies Recently Hiring
Siemens Lam Research Corporation SMA America FTC Solar Pactiv Corporation Customized Distribution Services KLA Europastry |
Hensel Phelps Construction Company Plug Power Qorvo - Triquint Semiconductor Incorporated Hormel Foods Corporation Munters Corporation ICU Medical Ebara Technologies Incorporated Praxair |
Connect with Orion Online
Follow us to keep up-to-date on all things Orion, including hiring events, base visits, webinars, and news pertinent to veterans through our social media listed below.