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Counterintelligence Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

PG&E Corporation

Insider Risk Analyst, Senior

Concord, CA · On-site +1

$158K/yr

Intelligence/counterintelligence, law enforcement, or utility security experience Compensation PG&E is providing the full salary/pay range for this position. The actual amount paid to an individual ...

MANTECH

Personnel Security Specialist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Willingness to submit to a Counterintelligence polygraph. Physical Requirements: * Must be able to remain in a stationary position 50%. * Needs to occasionally move about inside the office to access ...

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All JobsCounterintelligence JobsCounterintelligence Jobs in California

Counterintelligence information

See California salary details

$20.7K

$85.8K

$153.5K

How much do counterintelligence jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for counterintelligence in California is $85,769.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,800.00 and $110,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is 40 too old to join CIA?

Counterintelligence roles at the CIA do not have a strict maximum age limit, and candidates of diverse ages can qualify if they meet the necessary skills, background checks, and security clearance requirements. Age may be considered during the hiring process, but experience, education, and suitability are more important factors.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in counterintelligence roles, and how can candidates prepare for them?

Counterintelligence professionals often encounter challenges such as rapidly evolving security threats, the need to analyze large volumes of sensitive information, and maintaining confidentiality under pressure. Adapting to new technologies and staying current with global security trends are also critical. Candidates can prepare by developing strong analytical skills, practicing discretion, and seeking training in cybersecurity and investigative techniques to stay ahead of potential adversaries.

What is the difference between Counterintelligence vs Intelligence Analyst?

AspectCounterintelligenceIntelligence Analyst
Required CredentialsSecurity clearances, specialized training in espionage and threat detectionSecurity clearances, analytical skills, often degrees in political science or related fields
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, intelligence community, field operationsOffice settings, data analysis, report writing
Employer & IndustryIntelligence agencies, defense, national securityGovernment agencies, military, private sector intelligence firms
Common Search & ComparisonFocuses on detecting and preventing espionage and threatsFocuses on analyzing intelligence data to inform decisions

While both roles are vital to national security, Counterintelligence primarily involves identifying and thwarting espionage threats, whereas Intelligence Analysts interpret data to support strategic decisions. They often work together but have distinct focuses within the intelligence community.

How much does counterintelligence pay?

Counterintelligence specialists typically earn between $60,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and security clearance level. Higher salaries are common for those with specialized skills, advanced certifications, or in senior roles within government agencies or private firms.

What is the job of counterintelligence?

Counterintelligence professionals work to detect, prevent, and neutralize espionage, sabotage, and other intelligence threats against their organization or country. They analyze security risks, conduct investigations, and implement security measures, often requiring knowledge of intelligence operations, security protocols, and relevant certifications. The role is critical in protecting national security and sensitive information.

What are the career paths in counterintelligence?

Career paths in counterintelligence typically include roles such as analyst, operations officer, and technical specialist within government agencies like the FBI, CIA, or NSA. Advancement often involves gaining specialized skills, security clearances, and experience in intelligence analysis, covert operations, or cybersecurity, leading to senior or managerial positions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Counterintelligence Officer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Counterintelligence Officer, you need a strong background in security protocols, threat analysis, and investigative techniques, typically supported by a relevant degree and security clearance. Familiarity with intelligence-gathering tools, surveillance technologies, and secure communication systems is essential. Exceptional analytical thinking, discretion, and interpersonal skills help build trust and effectively identify threats. These competencies are crucial for protecting sensitive information and ensuring national security.

What Are the Qualifications to Get Counterintelligence Job?

The primary qualifications for a counterintelligence job are a bachelor's degree and several years of experience. Some employers accept additional education in place of work experience, with a master's or doctorate in a relevant field being preferable. Also, most counterintelligence jobs require a top secret/sensitive compartmentalized information (TS/SCI) security clearance. Getting this security clearance requires employer sponsorship, an exhaustive background investigation, and several interviews. It can take more than a year to get this clearance, so some employers ask you to do other work while you wait. Fulfilling the duties and responsibilities of a counterintelligence job requires experience processing large amounts of data, attention to detail, and excellent analytical skills.

What is counterintelligence?

Counterintelligence refers to activities and strategies used by governments and organizations to detect, prevent, and neutralize espionage, sabotage, or other intelligence threats from foreign entities or hostile actors. Professionals working in counterintelligence focus on protecting sensitive information, identifying insider threats, and ensuring national security. Their work often involves surveillance, analysis, and collaboration with other security and intelligence agencies. Counterintelligence is crucial for maintaining the confidentiality and integrity of a nation's operations and interests.
More about Counterintelligence jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Counterintelligence jobs in California? The most popular types of Counterintelligence jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Counterintelligence jobs in California? For Counterintelligence jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Counterintelligence jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Counterintelligence jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Counterintelligence jobs? Cities in California with the most Counterintelligence job openings:
Counterintelligence jobs near you
Infographic showing various Counterintelligence job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $85,769 per year, or $41.2 per hour.
Construction Surveillance Technician (CST) | TS/SCI CI-Poly

Construction Surveillance Technician (CST) | TS/SCI CI-Poly

IDS International

Fairfield, CA • On-site

$21.25 - $26.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

Be an early applicant

Job description

Construction Surveillance Technician (CST) with TS/SCI Clearance with CI-Poly
Fairfield, CA
Join IDS International’s National Security Services team supporting secure & mission-critical environments.
The CST supports construction security operations within a cleared environment by controlling site access, monitoring construction personnel and activities, and documenting security-related findings. This role requires continuous observation of construction processes, communication with site leadership, and reporting of inspection milestones and incidents. The CST operates within an active construction site and is responsible for maintaining security compliance and detailed documentation of all activities.
Key Responsibilities
  • Control access to the construction site
  • Screen and escort personnel, materials, and tools entering or leaving the site
  • Monitor construction workers and activities throughout assigned shifts
  • Maintain communication with the Program Manager (PM) and site lead
  • Submit daily reports and photographs documenting construction progress
  • Track and report status of security inspection milestones
  • Produce daily logs of all activities and events
  • Report security incidents and anomalies, including counterintelligence concerns, to the SSM
  • Conduct inspections and provide inspection reports, including photographic documentation
 
Required Qualifications
Clearance: Active Top Secret / Sensitive Compartmented Information (TS/SCI) clearance with Counterintelligence Polygraph (CI-Poly) required
Citizenship: U.S. Citizen
Age: 21 years or older *Note this is a government, not a company, requirement
Education: High school diploma or GED equivalent
Required Experience:
  • Experience using alarm systems, metal detectors, x-ray devices, and closed-circuit television systems
  • Ability to provide continuous surveillance of construction personnel and activities
  • Ability to document screenings, findings, and security logs
  • Ability to conduct inspections of secured and unsecured areas and materials
Physical Requirements:
  • Must be able to sit, stand, walk, bend, and move throughout secure facilities for extended periods of time
  • Position may require occasional lifting and/or movement of moderate amounts of weight, depending on assignment requirements
 
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience using alarm systems, metal detectors, x-ray devices, and closed-circuit television systems
  • Ability to provide continuous surveillance of construction personnel and activities
  • Ability to document screenings, findings, and security logs
  • Ability to conduct inspections of secured and unsecured areas and materials
 
Work Schedule & Conditions
Schedule: Monday–Friday
Hours: Guaranteed 40 hours per week
Overtime: Overtime is a requirement for this contract and is based on client needs (40–50 hours per week)
Compensation & Benefits
Rate: $ 37.00 per hour + daily non-taxable per diem (MI&E and Lodging) *Bonus eligible
Benefits: Health, 401(k), PTO & Sick Leave, and Paid Holidays are available to all W2 employees of IDS
Apply
Apply to learn more about this opportunity. A National Security Services Recruiter will contact you to discuss the position and next steps — please monitor your email.
___
Our Cleared Staffing Center of Excellence (COE) is a dedicated hub for secure and efficient talent acquisition. We connect a vetted network of cleared professionals with Intelligence Community (IC) staffing needs and trusted B2B partners.
Follow us on LinkedIn to stay up to date on current opportunities, program updates, and company news.
 

Employee may be required to occasionally lift and/or move moderate amounts of weight, typically less than 20 pounds, but may vary depending on the position. Regular and predictable attendance is essential.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or protected veteran status, and any other characteristic protected by federal, state, and local law.

If you are unable to apply through the portal and need to speak to someone about necessary accommodations to apply, please email accommodation@idsinternational.com and we will follow up with you. Do not submit resumes and applications through this email.

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