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Counterintelligence Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Job Summary: Orgill is seeking a high potential individual who serves as the analytical and operational backbone for retail dealer transitions. You will be responsible for the high precision ...

Counterintelligence information

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$19.1K

$78.9K

$141.1K

How much do counterintelligence jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for counterintelligence in Tennessee is $78,878.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,300.00 and $101,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

What jobs in the U.S. pay 300,000 a year?

Counterintelligence professionals in the U.S. can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially at senior levels or in leadership roles within government agencies like the FBI or CIA. High-paying positions often require advanced security clearances, specialized skills, and extensive experience in intelligence analysis, operations, or management.

What jobs pay $10,000 a month without a degree?

Counterintelligence roles typically require specialized training, security clearances, and experience rather than high salaries without formal degrees. However, some high-paying jobs such as sales, real estate, or entrepreneurship can reach or exceed $10,000 monthly income without a degree, often relying on skills, networking, and performance. These roles may involve self-employment or commission-based pay structures.

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 threats from foreign or domestic adversaries. They analyze intelligence data, conduct investigations, and implement security measures to protect national security interests. Skills in analysis, surveillance, and knowledge of security protocols are essential in this role.

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.
Infographic showing various Counterintelligence job openings in Tennessee as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,878 per year, or $37.9 per hour.
Counterintelligence Officer

Counterintelligence Officer

Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Oak Ridge, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday


Oak Ridge National Laboratory rating

9.3

Company rating: 9.3 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 103 rated laboratories


Job description

Requisition Id 16066 


Purpose:

The primary purpose of this position is to serve as a Counterintelligence Officer (CIO) for DOE Counterintelligence – Oak Ridge Field Office (ORFO). The incumbent will be a part of the Counterintelligence (CI) team responsible for managing and implementing the Cl Program that encompasses all contractor facilities at Oak Ridge, TN; Portsmouth, OH; and Paducah, KY. We are seeking a senior level counterintelligence investigator generalist with experience in the conduct of Cl investigations, operations, cyber or other technical measures, technology protection, analysis, and the production of intelligence information.

Major Duties/Responsibilities:

  • Conducts administrative investigations on incidents involving suspected or identified foreign intelligence activities:
  • Conducts investigations of counterintelligence, terrorism, and insider threats relevant to the protection of the DOE NNSA facilities and US national security
  • Develops and maintains professional relationships with United States Intelligence Community (USIC) partners
  • Conducts liaison with local intelligence community and law enforcement officials
  • Interfaces on a recurring basis with Department of Energy (DOE) Headquarters Office of Intelligence/Counterintelligence (IN-20) and other members of the USIC including the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI)
  • Maintains collaborative relationships within the department including security, cyber, and key technical and management officials
  • Communicates effectively through direct interaction and written documentation
  • Analyzes and strategically evaluates foreign intelligence collection as it relates to counterintelligence to facilitate identification and mitigation of foreign threat actors
  • Prepares reports of investigation, case analysis, briefings, operations, and foreign intelligence threats to DOE
  • Conducts briefing, debriefing, and awareness activities
  • Briefs individuals at all levels within supported organizations on the foreign intelligence and terrorism threats relevant to foreign travel, foreign visits and general foreign interactions
  • Debriefs individuals with foreign interactions. Collects relevant intelligence information, opens inquiries and investigations, and resolves/exploits information as required
  • Researches, develops, and conducts CI security awareness briefings
  • Serves as counterintelligence liaison to NNSA Y-12 site 

Qualifications Required:

  • A bachelor's degree and a minimum of ten years of experience directly related to counterintelligence matters is required
  • Completed formal, USIC-recognized training and expertise in CI-related investigative technical skills. 
  • Demonstrated knowledge of and skill in developing Cl initiatives and applying Cl concepts, practices, regulations, methods and techniques
  • Demonstrated knowledge and experience with the United States Intelligence Community agencies' mission including an extensive understanding of applicable laws, orders, guidelines, directives, policies and procedures
  • Capability to analyze and strategically evaluate foreign intelligence collection as it relates to counterintelligence
  • Ability to effectively communicate with all levels of management, both internal and external, and with customers and sponsors at all levels
  • Experience briefing and debriefing individuals on the foreign intelligence and terrorism threat relevant to foreign travel, foreign visits and general foreign interactions

Qualifications Desired:

  •  Completion of Federal Investigative Training Certification.  Such as:
    • Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Academy New Agent Training
    • Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) Criminal Investigator Training Program (CITP)
    • Department of War (DOW) Joint CI Training Academy (JCITA) Defense CI Agent Course
    • U.S. Army CI Special Agent Course (CISAC)
    • U.S. Air Force Office of Special Investigations (AFOSI) Academy (Pre-FLETC transition)
    • U.S. Navy Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) Special Agent Training (Pre-FLETC, pre-NCIS transition)
  • Completion of CI Specialization Training.  Such as:
    • FBI CI Operations Course
    • DOD JCITA Defense CI Agent Course
    • DOD Advanced Foreign CI Operations Course
    • U.S. Army CI Special Agent Course
    • AFOSI/NCIS CI Investigations Course
  • Experience living/working overseas
  • Experience in intelligence/security investigations

 

Special Requirement:

This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) clearance from the Department of Energy. As such, this position is a Workplace Substance Abuse (WSAP) testing designated position. WSAP positions require passing a pre-placement drug test and participation in an ongoing random drug testing program.  In addition, due the SCI, you may be also be subject to random polygraph testing.


About ORNL:

As a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science national laboratory, ORNL has an impressive 80-year legacy of addressing the nation’s most pressing challenges. Our team is made up of over 7,000 dedicated and innovative individuals! Our goal is to create an environment where a variety of perspectives and backgrounds are valued, ensuring ORNL is known as a top choice for employment. These principles are essential for supporting our broader mission to drive scientific breakthroughs and translate them into solutions for energy, environmental, and security challenges facing the nation.

ORNL offers competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain individuals who demonstrate exceptional work behaviors. The laboratory provides a range of employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to support the well-being of you and your family. Employee amenities such as on-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also available for added convenience.

Other benefits include the following: Prescription Drug Plan, Dental Plan, Vision Plan, 401(k) Retirement Plan, Contributory Pension Plan, Life Insurance, Disability Benefits, Generous Vacation and Holidays, Parental Leave, Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection, Employee Assistance Plan, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Wellness Programs, Educational Assistance, Relocation Assistance, and Employee Discounts.

If you have difficulty using the online application system or need an accommodation to apply due to a disability, please email: ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov.

This position will remain open for a minimum of 5 days after which it will close when a qualified candidate is identified and/or hired.

We accept Word (.doc, .docx), Adobe (unsecured .pdf), Rich Text Format (.rtf), and HTML (.htm, .html) up to 5MB in size. Resumes from third party vendors will not be accepted; these resumes will be deleted and the candidates submitted will not be considered for employment.


ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply.  UT-Battelle is an E-Verify employer.


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