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Network Engineer Secret Clearance Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Network Engineer

Sioux Falls, SD · On-site

$70 - $95/hr

S. Citizenship and either Secret Clearance or Top Secret Clearance. Job Overview: As a Network Engineer, you will play a crucial role in managing and maintaining our clients' network infrastructure.

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Network Engineer Secret Clearance information

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$31K

$109K

$158K

How much do network engineer secret clearance jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for network engineer secret clearance in the United States is $109,040.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $89,000.00 and $133,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Network Engineer Secret Clearance vs Network Administrator Secret Clearance?

AspectNetwork Engineer Secret ClearanceNetwork Administrator Secret Clearance
Required CertificationsCCNA, CISSP, Security+CCNA, Security+
Work EnvironmentDesign, implement, and troubleshoot complex networks, often in government or defense sectorsManage and maintain existing networks, ensure security and performance
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in defense, government, and military sectorsCommercial and government sectors, including IT departments

Network Engineer Secret Clearance and Network Administrator Secret Clearance roles share similar security credentials and work environments, often within government or defense sectors. The main difference lies in responsibilities: network engineers focus on designing and implementing networks, while network administrators maintain and troubleshoot existing systems. Both roles require security clearances and relevant certifications, but their day-to-day tasks and strategic focus differ.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior network engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in cybersecurity, and certifications such as CISSP or CCIE can reach salaries around $500,000, especially in high-demand industries or senior leadership roles. These positions often involve managing complex infrastructure, security protocols, and large-scale networks, sometimes with additional bonuses or stock options.

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

To thrive as a Network Engineer with Secret Clearance, you need expertise in network design, troubleshooting, and security protocols, typically supported by a relevant degree and industry certifications such as Cisco CCNA/CCNP or CompTIA Security+. Familiarity with network monitoring tools, firewalls, VPNs, and government-specific systems is essential, along with maintaining an active Secret security clearance. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate clearly with technical and non-technical stakeholders are vital soft skills. These competencies ensure secure, reliable network operations and compliance with strict government security standards.

What are some common challenges faced by Network Engineers with Secret Clearance when working on government projects?

Network Engineers with Secret Clearance working on government projects often encounter challenges such as adhering to strict security protocols, handling classified information, and managing access controls across secure networks. Collaboration with other cleared professionals is essential, but can be complicated by compartmentalized information and need-to-know restrictions. Additionally, engineers must stay up to date with evolving compliance standards and be prepared for frequent security audits, making attention to detail and adaptability crucial in this role.

What jobs can a top secret clearance get you?

A top secret clearance for a network engineer can qualify you for roles involving classified government or military networks, cybersecurity, and intelligence operations. These positions often require handling sensitive information, working with specialized tools, and adhering to strict security protocols.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior network engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications (such as CCIE or CISSP), and specialized skills in cybersecurity or large-scale infrastructure can earn $300,000 or more annually. These roles often involve managing complex networks, working in high-demand industries, and may require on-call availability or leadership responsibilities.

How much does a network engineer with top secret clearance make?

A network engineer with a top secret clearance typically earns between $80,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and specific employer. Those with specialized skills, certifications, or working in high-demand areas can earn higher salaries, especially when working on government or defense projects requiring security clearances.

What is a Network Engineer with Secret Clearance?

A Network Engineer with Secret Clearance is a professional responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining computer networks within organizations that require access to classified information. The 'Secret Clearance' designation means the engineer has been vetted and authorized by the government to handle sensitive data and systems that impact national security. These roles are common in defense, government agencies, and contractors supporting such entities. In addition to technical expertise in networking, candidates must pass background checks and adhere to strict security protocols. This combination ensures the secure and efficient operation of critical communication networks.
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What cities are hiring for Network Engineer Secret Clearance jobs? Cities with the most Network Engineer Secret Clearance job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Network Engineer Secret Clearance jobs? The most popular types of Network Engineer Secret Clearance jobs are:
What states have the most Network Engineer Secret Clearance jobs? States with the most job openings for Network Engineer Secret Clearance jobs include:
Senior Network Engineer - Secret Clearance Required

Senior Network Engineer - Secret Clearance Required

General Dynamics Information Technology

Falls Church, VA • Hybrid

$111K - $152K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


General Dynamics Information Technology rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 62 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

71st of 204 rated it services


Job description

REQ#: RQ220557Public Trust: None Requisition Type: Regular Your Impact

Own your opportunity to support our nation's defense. Make an impact by connecting and securing critical operations across the globe, keeping our country safe and secure.

Job Description

NETWORK ENGINEER SENIOR

We are GDITsupporting and securing some of the most complex government, defense, and intelligence projects in the country. We ensure today is safe and tomorrow is smarter, with work that has real impact. GDIT is your place to own your career by embracing autonomy, seizing opportunity, and being trusted to deliver your best.

In this role, you will support the Army National Guard (ARNG) in Falls Church, VA as a Network Administrator; a current, active Secret clearance is required. This IT Service Management contract supports the operation, modernization, and evolution of ARNGs global IT services, including networking, compute, storage, infrastructure, applications, hosting, and program management. The GECOS program underpins ARNGs enterprise IT infrastructure, WAN, authentication and directory services, cybersecurity, application hosting, and related services, using the ITIL framework as the basis for its IT Service Management (ITSM) model.

HOW A SENIOR NETWORK ADMINISTRATOR WILL MAKE AN IMPACT:

  • Configure, manage, and maintain physical and virtual infrastructure, including Cisco routers, Layer 3 switches, firewalls, and Palo Alto IDS/IPS.

  • Perform off-hours maintenance and support 24x7 operations of a large enterprise environment per schedules and best practices.

  • Implement and maintain DISA STIG baselines and support CCRI inspections and ATO sustainment.

  • Develop and maintain standard operating procedures and create/defend system change requests.

  • Develop and maintain proactive capacity planning models to support business decisions.

  • Support engineering and architecture initiatives, serving as a senior engineer on complex ARNG strategic projects.

  • Perform architecture and technology gap analyses and recommend improvements to DoWIN-A(NG) and DoWIN-A(NG)-S operations and security.

  • Analyze customer requirements and deliver technical solutions to complex problems.

  • Maintain and upgrade networks (servers, routers, switches, firewalls, remote access systems), ensuring integrity, connectivity, backups, and policy compliance.

  • Coordinate acquisition of hardware, software, and subcontractor services as needed.

  • Design, plan, and configure data communication networks, including hardware and software components.

  • Evaluate and integrate new communications technologies to enhance network capabilities; stay current on relevant technology.

  • Coach and guide junior and less-experienced administrators; may serve as a team or task lead.

WHAT YOULL NEED TO SUCCEED:

Education/Equivalent Training Required:

  • Bachelors degree or 10+ years of relevant experience as a Network Administrator / Engineer

Years of relevant experience:

  • Required Experience: 6+ years experience Cisco and Palo Alto Routing, Switching, IDS/IPS, and Firewall technologies

Skills/Additional Requirements:

  • Required Technical Skills: Advance routing (BGP/OSPF), MPLS, Firewall and IDS/IPS policies

  • Advanced networking: BGP/OSPF, MPLS, firewall and IDS/IPS policy configuration

  • Experience securing and hardening devices in accordance with STIGs

  • Broad understanding of system hardware, software, configurations, and technologies

  • Strong problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making skills; able to understand requirements and troubleshoot complex issues

  • Professional, reliable, and punctual; receptive to direction and feedback

  • Proven customer service skills, including interaction with senior military and government leadership

  • Effective communicator across the enterprise (teams, management, and vendors); strong briefing and documentation skills

  • Strong organizational and teamwork skills; experience leading project efforts

  • Quick learner, self-motivated to study emerging technologies and requirements; stays current with industry practices

  • Able to work under time constraints and adapt to changing priorities and new projects

  • Committed to maintaining and pursuing relevant certifications

Certification Requirements:

  • Two certifications - Must Possess the appropriate baseline certification(s) to achieve a minimum of DoW 8570.01-M Information Assurance Technical (IAT) Level II (i.e., CompTIA Security+ CE) in addition to a Computing Environment (CE) certification (e.g., Cisco, Palo Altos) prior to start. When 8140 requirements are implemented on program/contract, employee will need to conform to 8140 certification standards

Clearance Requirements:

  • Must have a minimum of an active Secret clearance at time of interview and candidate must maintain active clearance.

Work Location:

  • Fairview Park, Falls Church, VA

  • Three (3) days onsite with up to two (2) days telework. Onboarding/transition in period requires on-site support up to 90 days. GECOS work schedules are subject to change on direction by mission requirements from GDIT or USG leadership.

Travel:

  • Less than 10%.


GDIT IS YOUR PLACE
At GDIT, the mission is our purpose, and our people are at the center of everything we do.
Growth: AI-powered career tool that identifies career steps and learning opportunities
Support: An internal mobility team focused on helping you achieve your career goals
Rewards: Comprehensive benefits and wellness packages, 401K with company match, and competitive pay and paid time off
Community: Award-winning culture of innovation and a military-friendly workplace
OWN YOUR OPPORTUNITY
Explore an enterprise IT career at GDIT and youll find endless opportunities to grow alongside colleagues who share your desire to drive operations forward.

#GDITPriority

Work Requirements
Years of Experience

10 + years of related experience

* may vary based on technical training, certification(s), or degree

Certification

CompTIA Security+ CE | CompTIA - CompTIA

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) | Cisco - Cisco

Travel Required

Less than 10%

Citizenship

U.S. Citizenship Required

Salary and Benefit Information

The likely salary range for this position is $123,250 - $166,750. This is not, however, a guarantee of compensation or salary. Rather, salary will be set based on experience, geographic location and possibly contractual requirements and could fall outside of this range.
View information about benefits and our total rewards program.

About Our Work

We are GDIT. A global technology and professional services company that delivers technology and mission services to every major agency across the U.S. government, defense and intelligence community. Our 26,000 experts extract the power of technology to create immediate value and deliver solutions at the edge of innovation. We operate across over 50 countries worldwide, offering leading capabilities in digital modernization, AI/ML, cloud, cyber and application development. Together with our customers, we strive to create a safer, smarter world by harnessing the power of deep expertise and advanced technology.

Join our Talent Community to stay up to date on our career opportunities and events at gdit.com/tc.

Equal Opportunity Employer / Individuals with Disabilities / Protected Veterans


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About General Dynamics Information Technology

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

GDIT is a global technology and professional services company that delivers technology solutions and mission services to every major agency across the U.S. government, defense, and intelligence community. Its 30,000 experts extract the power of technology to create immediate value and deliver solutions at the edge of innovation. The company operates across 50+ countries worldwide, offering leading capabilities in digital modernization, AI/ML, cloud, cyber, and application development.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US