2

Entry Level Security Clearance Jobs in California

next page

Showing results 1-20

Entry Level Security Clearance information

See California salary details

$29.1K

$48.2K

$60.7K

How much do entry level security clearance jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level security clearance in California is $48,173.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,400.00 and $52,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are entry-level security clearance jobs?

A security clearance is a determination by the U.S. government that an individual can access classified information or data. There are three security clearance levels: confidential, secret, and top secret. Confidential is the lowest level of security clearance, and top secret is the highest. These levels correspond to the sensitivity of the information as classified by the government. Obtaining a security clearance requires passing a background investigation and must be renewed periodically. Some positions working for the federal government or a government contractor may require you to either hold an active security clearance or be able to obtain one. Because of the length of time it may take to obtain a security clearance, some employers may prefer candidates that already hold one that they obtained in a previous position. Fields may include information technology, software development, engineering, and finance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in an entry-level position requiring security clearance, and why are they important?

An entry level security clearance is a background check and approval process that allows individuals to access sensitive or classified information required for certain government or defense-related jobs. This type of clearance is typically granted to new employees or recent graduates who are starting their careers and do not have prior clearance. The process involves a review of personal history, criminal record, financial status, and sometimes interviews. Entry level clearances can include Confidential or Secret clearances, depending on the job requirements. Obtaining a clearance demonstrates trustworthiness and eligibility to handle sensitive information.

What types of projects or assignments can I expect as an entry-level professional with a security clearance?

As an entry-level professional with a security clearance, you can expect to support a variety of tasks depending on your field and the agency or contractor you join. Common assignments include conducting background research, assisting with security protocols, supporting senior analysts or engineers, and participating in team meetings to discuss project progress. You'll often work within a structured team environment, collaborating closely with experienced colleagues while gradually taking on more responsibility as you build your skills and understanding of security procedures. These early projects help you gain valuable experience and lay the groundwork for future advancement within sensitive government or defense sectors.

What is the difference between Entry Level Security Clearance vs Entry Level Security Officer?

AspectEntry Level Security ClearanceEntry Level Security Officer
Required CredentialsBackground check, security clearance applicationSecurity training, basic security certifications
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, defense contractorsPrivate security firms, corporate security
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily government and defense sectorsSecurity companies, corporate facilities
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding clearance levels and eligibilityJob roles and responsibilities in security

Entry Level Security Clearance refers to the authorization granted after background checks for access to sensitive information, mainly in government or defense sectors. Entry Level Security Officer involves performing security duties, often with basic training, in various settings. While both relate to security, the clearance is about access permissions, whereas the officer role involves active security responsibilities.

What jobs can I get with an entry level security clearance?

Entry level security clearance can qualify you for jobs such as security officer, security analyst, or administrative roles in government agencies, defense contractors, or private security firms. These positions often require knowledge of security protocols, background checks, and sometimes specialized training or certifications like CPR or first aid.

What are the most commonly searched types of Security Clearance jobs in California?

The most popular types of Security Clearance jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Security Clearance jobs in California?

For Entry Level Security Clearance jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Security Clearance jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Security Clearance jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Security Clearance jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Security Clearance job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Security Clearance job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,173 per year, or $23.2 per hour.

Entry Level Electrical Engineer with Security Clearance

BAE Systems

San Diego, CA • On-site

$64K - $110K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


BAE Systems rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 151 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

Job Description You don't see it, but it's there. Our employees work on the world's most advanced electronics - from saving emissions in the City of Lights to powering the Mars Rover to protecting the F-35 fighter jet! At Electronic Systems, you'll be among the brightest minds, working on the Defense and Space software industry's most difficult problems. Drawing strength from our differences, we're innovating for the future. And you can, too. Our flexible work environment provides you a chance to change the world without giving up your personal life. We put our customers first - exemplified by our missions: "We Protect Those Who Protect Us®" and "We Innovate For Those Who Move The WorldTM." Sound like a team you want to be a part of? Come build your career with us. BAE Systems is looking for an entry-level/junior Hardware Engineer (< 1 year experience) to join our team beginning in Summer 2027. The qualified candidate will work in a rapid development environment as part of a multi-disciplinary team. Tasks may include building, testing, analyzing F-16 and F-2 equipment results, running through and updating test procedures and confirming results, documenting parts and part lists, researching hardware, ordering parts, and communicating with manufacturing, working with different teams such as mechanical and electrical engineering teams. In Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (C4ISR) solutions, you'll help develop systems that sense, control, exploit and disseminate actionable information to warfighters supporting a variety of missions.
An exciting future at BAE Systems awaits and it starts with Year One: Beyond exciting work, every new engineer will be part of our Year One (YO) program - a unique and tailored experience to support your new engineering career. * You will join other entry level hires in a curated YO program, in addition to your program team, creating strong connections with your peers and leadership as you develop and navigate your journey here at our company!
* The Year One program consists of team bonding events, networking opportunities, training activities, self improvement modules, and more! * You will have a peer mentor to help guide you and provide support every step of the way.
* You will have an experienced team fully dedicated to supporting you and your first steps in your engineering career.
* Please note that pursuant to a government contract, this specific position requires US citizenship status. This position works a 9/80 schedule. Required Education, Experience, & Skills Required Education, Experience, and Skills: * Bachelor's of Science in Electrical Engineering from a regionally accredited University.
* No more than 6 months of full time engineering experience (not including internships)
* Ability to be granted as security clearance by the US Federal Government.
* Team player with a proactive attitude, the ability to be productive in a dynamic/ collaborative environment, and strong oral and written communication skills.
* A self-motivated and fast learner who seeks challenges and supports the team initiative Preferred Education, Experience, & Skills Preferred Education, Experience, and Skills: * Someone who enjoys hands on work with electronics in addition to theory * GPA 3.0 and above (Cumulative and major)
* Currently holds a security clearance
* Experience with (or desire to learn): Phase Noise Analyzer (PNA), Spectrum Analyzer, RF Signal Generator, Power Meter, Oscilloscope, Power Supplies, etc
* Communication skills. Will be taking direction and doing work for Engineers in the group.
* Detail oriented as they will be analyzing data and reviewing schematics.
* A willingness to reach out to people, with questions and proactively provide updates on tasking
* Understanding of military specifications * Working knowledge of requirements Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $64926 - $110374 Please note: This range is based on our market pay structures. However, individual salaries are determined by a variety of factors including, but not limited to: business considerations, local market conditions, and internal equity, as well as candidate qualifications, such as skills, education, and experience. Employee Benefits: At BAE Systems, we support our employees in all aspects of their life, including their health and financial well-being. Regular employees scheduled to work 20+ hours per week are offered: health, dental, and vision insurance; health savings accounts; a 401(k) savings plan; disability coverage; and life and accident insurance. We also have an employee assistance program, a legal plan, and other perks including discounts on things like home, auto, and pet insurance. Our leave programs include paid time off, paid holidays, as well as other types of leave, including paid parental, military, bereavement, and any applicable federal and state sick leave. Employees may participate in the company recognition program to receive monetary or non-monetary recognition awards. Other incentives may be available based on position level and/or job specifics. About BAE Systems Electronic Systems BAE Systems, Inc. is a defense, aerospace, and security company headquartered in Falls Church, Virginia, with more than 40,000 employees worldwide. We serve, supply, and protect those who protect us. As one of the most geographically diverse international defense companies, we deliver a full range of products and services spanning air, land, maritime, space, and cyber, including advanced electronics, intelligence solutions, and dedicated customer support. Our culture is performance-driven and values-led, built on curiosity, creativity, and collaboration. Purpose isn't a tagline here. It's what drives us. We're developing breakthrough technologies that defend national security and make a lasting impact on our communities and our planet. When you join BAE Systems, you're not just building a career. You're contributing to a mission that truly matters. This position will be posted for at least 5 calendar days. The posting will remain active until the position is filled, or a qualified pool of candidates is identified.

What BAE Systems employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


BAE Systems logo

About BAE Systems

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At BAE Systems, we provide some of the world's most advanced, technology-led defence, aerospace and security solutions. We employ a skilled workforce of more than 93,000 in around 40 countries. Working with customers and local partners, we develop, engineer, manufacture, and support products and systems to deliver military capability, protect national security and people, and keep critical information and infrastructure secure.

Industry

National security and international affairs and it services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US