Pen-Link is involved in an exciting industry - providing state-of-the-art technology to law enforcement and intelligence agencies. Agencies who use the company's products include the DEA, FBI, CIA, Secret Service, US Marshalls, and the Department of Homeland Security. The following includes information on the interview process and culture at Pen-Link.
Bits and Bytes (BB): What qualifications does a successful applicant possess?
Emily Pruss (EP): Pen-Link is a technology company that operates in a dynamic industry. The work we do helps make the world a better place by assisting those responsible for protecting our country and its citizens. We look for candidates who have a strong drive, a passion to learn, and a desire to make a difference. Because we offer a number of different positions, in general, we look for applicants with a strong customer focus, computer/technical experience (the amount of experience is dependent on the position), and excellent organizational and communication skills.
BB: What is the interview process like?
EP: Because of the nature of our work and our customers being law enforcement and government security agencies, Pen-Link has a thorough interview process that includes two interview sessions and the successful completion of a background check. The first interview session is with the direct manager for the position to assess the candidate’s qualifications. The second interview session is with a Director or Vice President of the company.
BB: What should the student do in preparation for the interview?
EP: To prepare for an interview at Pen-Link, the candidate will need to anticipate providing the following information:
• Work experience
• Academic history
• Skills and abilities
• Career goals and objectives
• Accomplishments and achievements
• Personal and motivational factors
• Any questions about the company (mission, strategy, products, etc…)
BB: Can you provide an estimate of the number of applications you receive for internship positions and the acceptance rate?
EP: Pen-Link receives on average 85 resumes a year for our internships and we hire approximately 10 candidates.
BB: What skills and credentials will the intern take away from their experience?
EP: The candidate will have the opportunity to work in a dynamic, fast-paced work environment and will gain hands on experience working directly with customers or on mission critical projects.
BB: What makes your company stand out?
EP: Pen-Link offers a financially stable, fast growing, small company environment in a fast-paced industry. We are a private company that makes investments to benefit our employees and customers for the long term. In 2007 and, again, in 2011, Pen-Link was named among the INC. 5000 “fastest growing private companies”. Pen-Link also offers a benefit program second to none:
o Competitive Salaries
o Performance Bonuses
o Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
o 401(k) Plan with Dollar-for-Dollar Matching
o Company-sponsored activities
o Dictate your own career path
o Domestic and International travel opportunities
o Consistent record setting years in profits
BB: What is the company culture like?
EP: Pen-Link believes in our mission to provide our customers with state-of-the-art surveillance technology and outstanding customer service. We have created a culture where our most valuable assets, our people, have the freedom to use their creative talents to make in an impact. We hire the best and brightest and provide fun and casual atmosphere where our employees can develop personally and professionally.
Further Information:
Pen-Link is dedicated to educating the community through administrating training sessions. Try to attend one if possible. It will provide a connection within the company and a knowledge of their products. Enrollment for these sessions can be completed online at http://www.penlink.com/Training/tabid/60/Default.aspx.
The company is growing. This can be seen by the 65% revenue increase from 2007-2010. As of 2011, Pen-Link had 58 employees, a 28% increase from 2007. The company is expanding and looking for sharp minds to help it grow.
Pen-Link is heavily involved in conferences and staying up-to-date on current needs. Showing an interest in the developments in law enforcement and intelligence will help impress the interviewer.
How To Apply:
Job listings can be found online at http://www.penlink.com/About/CareersPenLink/tabid/160/Default.aspx.
If you have questions about internships, please contact Emily Pruss at epruss@penlink.com.