First 90 Days Onboarding Checklist

Administrative Setup

• Complete all HR paperwork (I-9, W-4, direct deposit, benefits enrollment)
• Submit clearance paperwork if transferring/upgrading clearance
• Provide CAC card photo (if required before start)
• Complete any required pre-employment drug screening
• Set up access to company HR portal/employee self-service
• Review and sign company policies (IT acceptable use, travel, expense, etc.)

Logistics

• Confirm start date, time, and location with HR/manager
• Get gate access instructions (which gate, what to bring, where to park)
• Understand badge/CAC process (RAPIDS appointment if needed)
• Plan your commute route and timing
• Prepare professional attire for first week
• Set up any required accounts (timekeeping, collaboration tools) if accessible

Security & Access

• Get building badge/CAC issued and activated
• Complete security in-processing briefing
• Gain access to SCIF (if applicable) - complete read-ins
• Get computer/network access credentials
• Access email and key systems (timekeeping, collaboration)
• Complete required cybersecurity training (annual requirements)
• Get phone/desk setup complete
• Understand classified material handling procedures

People & Relationships

• Meet with your direct supervisor - understand expectations
• Get introduced to immediate team members
• Identify your "go-to" person for day-to-day questions
• Meet the government customer/COR (if appropriate)
• Learn organizational structure and key stakeholders
• Collect key contact information
• Attend any scheduled team meetings

Administrative

• Complete required new hire training modules
• Understand timekeeping system and charge codes
• Learn expense reporting process
• Understand work schedule (core hours, flex time, 9/80)
• Get added to relevant distribution lists
• Set up voicemail

Understand the Work

• Review the contract/PWS to understand scope and deliverables
• Understand your role's key responsibilities and success metrics
• Learn the program/project background and current status
• Review relevant documentation (CONOPS, requirements, architecture)
• Understand key milestones and deadlines
• Learn the tools and systems used by your team
• Attend key recurring meetings (IPTs, status reviews, standups)
• Shadow experienced team members on key tasks

Build Relationships

• Schedule 1:1s with key team members
• Learn who the subject matter experts are for different areas
• Understand the government customer's priorities and concerns
• Build rapport with the program manager and task leads
• Identify mentors (both on your team and in the company)
• Join any relevant professional communities within the company

Early Contributions

• Complete any assigned training or certifications
• Take on a small deliverable or task to demonstrate competence
• Offer to help with team pain points where you can add value
• Document processes or knowledge as you learn (helps team and you)
• Ask good questions - show genuine interest in understanding

Take Ownership

• Own specific deliverables or work products
• Propose improvements to processes you've observed
• Anticipate needs rather than waiting to be asked
• Provide status updates proactively
• Start building documentation or tools that help the team
• Take meeting notes or action items when appropriate

Deepen Expertise

• Master the tools and systems critical to your role
• Complete any relevant certifications or training
• Read background documents to understand history and context
• Attend customer meetings to understand their perspective
• Learn the technical domain more deeply
• Understand the competitive landscape (other contractors)

Expand Your Network

• Connect with colleagues on other programs
• Attend company all-hands or town halls
• Join relevant professional organizations (INCOSE, PMI, etc.)
• Build relationships across organizational boundaries
• Get feedback from supervisor on your progress

Demonstrate Impact

• Complete a significant deliverable or milestone
• Receive positive feedback from customer or leadership
• Solve a problem that's been lingering
• Be recognized as the "go-to" person for something specific
• Mentor newer team members (if applicable)
• Present at a meeting or review

Plan for Growth

• Discuss career development with your supervisor
• Identify skills gaps and training opportunities
• Set goals for the next 6-12 months
• Explore opportunities on other programs or in other areas
• Understand the path to promotion/advancement
• Document your accomplishments for performance reviews

90-Day Review

• Schedule a formal or informal 90-day check-in with supervisor
• Prepare a summary of what you've learned and accomplished
• Ask for specific feedback on strengths and areas for improvement
• Discuss alignment of your role with your career goals
• Confirm you're meeting expectations
• Thank key people who helped with your onboarding