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Machine Learning Secret Clearance Jobs in Chicago, IL

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Machine Learning Secret Clearance information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$14

$27

$50

How much do machine learning secret clearance jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine learning secret clearance in Chicago, IL is $27.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.02 and $28.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Machine Learning Engineer with Secret Clearance, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Machine Learning Engineer with Secret Clearance, you need a solid background in computer science, mathematics, and machine learning theory, typically supported by a relevant degree and eligibility for security clearance. Familiarity with frameworks like TensorFlow or PyTorch, programming languages such as Python, and secure data handling protocols is essential, and certifications like CompTIA Security+ can be valuable. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating with interdisciplinary teams in sensitive environments. These skills ensure the development of robust, secure, and innovative AI solutions that meet strict government or defense requirements.

What is the difference between Machine Learning Secret Clearance vs Data Scientist with Secret Clearance?

AspectMachine Learning Secret ClearanceData Scientist with Secret Clearance
Required CredentialsSecurity clearance, specialized machine learning knowledge, programming skillsSecurity clearance, statistical, programming, and data analysis skills
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, defense contractors, classified projectsGovernment agencies, private sector, research institutions
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily defense, intelligence, aerospaceWide range including government, tech, finance
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Both roles require security clearance and technical expertise, but Machine Learning Secret Clearance focuses more on developing AI models for classified projects, while Data Scientist with Secret Clearance emphasizes data analysis and insights across various sectors. The roles often overlap in government and defense sectors, but differ in specific skill sets and project focus.

What unique challenges might I face working as a Machine Learning Engineer with Secret Clearance, and how does this affect daily responsibilities?

Working as a Machine Learning Engineer with Secret Clearance often involves handling sensitive or classified data, which introduces unique challenges such as adhering to strict security protocols and limited access to certain resources or external tools. Your daily responsibilities may include developing models in secure environments, collaborating closely with cross-functional teams cleared at similar levels, and ensuring all work complies with government regulations. While the work can be highly impactful and intellectually stimulating, it requires strong attention to detail, adaptability, and an understanding of data security practices.

What is a Machine Learning Secret Clearance job?

A Machine Learning Secret Clearance job involves developing and implementing machine learning models and algorithms within organizations that require employees to hold a U.S. government Secret security clearance. These roles typically support classified projects for government agencies or defense contractors, ensuring that sensitive data and methods are handled securely. Professionals in these positions combine expertise in artificial intelligence with knowledge of security protocols, working on tasks like data analysis, predictive modeling, and automation within a secure environment. The Secret clearance requirement demonstrates an individual's trustworthiness and eligibility to access classified information, which is essential for national security work.
Infographic showing various Machine Learning Secret Clearance job openings in Chicago, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 87% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,456 per year, or $27.1 per hour.

Milling Machine Machinist 1

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Rolling Meadows, IL • On-site

$49K - $81K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 357 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

86th of 536 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: No relocation assistance available
CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: No
CLEARANCE TYPE: Secret
TRAVEL: NoDescription
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.
Job Description
Northrop Grumman Mission Systems is looking for you to join our team as an Milling Machine Machinist 1, based out of Rolling Meadows, IL.
The specialist milling machinist is responsible for preparing and operating plain or universal, horizontal, and vertical milling machines to produce precision components. Core duties include:
  • Setting up machines and selecting, mounting, and aligning specialized attachments or custom tooling.
  • Planning the machining sequence, determining the number of passes, and choosing the optimal set-up method.
  • Computing and adjusting cutting speeds, feed rates, and depth of cut to meet exact tolerances.
  • Executing advanced milling operations such as compound-angle cuts, contouring, boring angular holes, helical and spiral milling, serrating, and cutting gears, splines, honing, and keyways.
  • Interpreting blueprints, sketches, and engineering specifications; using hand tools and precision measuring instruments; performing standard shop calculations; and marking out stock material for machining.
  • Monitoring and verifying product quality using statistical process control or other quality-control procedures.

Basic Qualifications:
  • High School Diploma or equivalent
  • Ability to read blueprints/sketches or other engineering specifications
  • Ability to use precision hand tools and measuring instruments
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a US Government Secret clearance
  • US Citizen

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Knowledge of CNC programming software such as SurfCam or MasterCam
  • Willingness to learn CNC programming
  • Sheet Metal forming and/or welding experience

#MPR
Primary Level Salary Range: $49,100.00 - $81,800.00
The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.
Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.
The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.
Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939