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Q Clearance Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$107 - $178/hr

* Network Security Systems Manager - Q Clearance Required Network Security Systems Manager - Q Clearance Required | Req#4675 Network Security Systems Manager - Q Clearance Required Summary: We are ...

$221 - $270/hr

Senior IT Architect (Team Lead) - Q Clearance Required Senior IT Architect (Team Lead) - Q Clearance Required | Req#4676 Senior IT Architect (Team Lead) - Q Clearance Required Summary: We are seeking ...

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Q Clearance information

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How much do q clearance jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for q clearance in the United States is $35.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.63 and $53.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is Q clearance?

Q clearance is a type of security clearance offered by the United States Department of Energy. It is functionally similar to the Top Secret clearance granted in other areas—and can generally be used as such—but also provides access authorization to restricted data and special nuclear material. The federal government primarily offers this clearance to outside contractors who need access to specific sites, though it may also be necessary for some positions within the Department of Energy and the military. Q clearance is the highest type of clearance given to contractors and often involves things like armed security escorts—or providing said escorts—when accessing certain types of information.

What is Q clearance?

Q Clearance is a type of security clearance issued by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) that allows access to Top Secret Restricted Data, National Security Information, and certain special nuclear materials. It is one of the highest security clearances in the United States and is required for individuals who need access to classified information regarding nuclear weapons and related activities. Obtaining Q Clearance involves an extensive background check, including personal history, financial records, and interviews. The clearance is typically required for federal employees, contractors, and scientists working in nuclear research or national security fields.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a Q clearance position, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Q Clearance position, you need a strong background in your technical field (such as engineering, science, or security), U.S. citizenship, and the ability to pass a rigorous background investigation. Familiarity with classified information systems, cybersecurity protocols, and compliance with Department of Energy (DOE) regulations is typically required. Integrity, discretion, and attention to detail are critical soft skills for handling sensitive information and maintaining trust. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure national security and the safe management of highly classified materials.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in Q clearance positions, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals holding a Q Clearance often face the challenge of working with highly sensitive information, which requires strict adherence to security protocols and can limit the ability to discuss work with colleagues outside of clearance levels. This can sometimes lead to feelings of isolation or difficulties in collaboration. To address these challenges, it's important to build strong communication skills within cleared teams, maintain awareness of security policies, and utilize approved channels for collaboration. Employers typically provide training and support systems to help cleared employees navigate these unique aspects of their roles.

What is the difference between Q Clearance vs Top Secret Clearance?

AspectQ ClearanceTop Secret Clearance
Required CredentialsBackground check, security clearance process, often with a polygraphSimilar background check, security clearance process, often with a polygraph
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, defense contractors, intelligence communityGovernment agencies, defense contractors, intelligence community
Industry UsagePrimarily Department of Energy, defense, intelligencePrimarily Department of Defense, intelligence agencies

Q Clearance and Top Secret Clearance are both security clearances used in government and defense sectors. Q Clearance is specific to the Department of Energy and related agencies, while Top Secret Clearance is used across various government agencies including DOD and intelligence. Both require rigorous background checks and are essential for access to sensitive information, but they are issued for different agency-specific needs.

What cities are hiring for Q Clearance jobs?

Cities with the most Q Clearance job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Q Clearance jobs?

The most popular types of Q Clearance jobs are:

What states have the most Q Clearance jobs?

States with the most job openings for Q Clearance jobs include:

Infographic showing various Q Clearance job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,802 per year, or $35.5 per hour.

Junior SOC Analyst (Q Clearance)

Las Vegas, NV • On-site

ShorePoint LLC
IT Services • 51 - 200 employees

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Who we are:

ShorePoint is a fast-growing, industry-recognized and award-winning cybersecurity services firm focused on high-profile, high-threat public and private sector customers who demand experience and proven security models to protect their data. We embrace a “work hard, play hard” mentality and celebrate individual and company successes. We are passionate about our mission and going above and beyond to deliver for our customers, while fostering an environment that supports creativity, accountability, mission success, critical thinking and a desire to give back to our community.  

The Perks:

As recognized members of the Cyber Elite, we work together in partnership to defend our nation’s critical infrastructure while building meaningful and exciting career development opportunities in a culture tailored to the individual’s technical and professional growth. We are committed to the belief that our team members do their best work when they are happy and well cared for. In support of this philosophy, we offer a comprehensive benefits package, major carriers for healthcare providers. Highlighted benefits include 144 hours of PTO, 11 holidays, 85% of insurance premiums covered, a 401(k), continuing education, certification maintenance and reimbursement and more.

Who we're looking for:

We are seeking a Junior Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst (Q clearance) to monitor security events, investigate incidents, and support containment and remediation activities. The ideal candidate will combine foundational cybersecurity knowledge with strong analytical skills to support real-time security operations. The Junior SOC Analyst role contributes directly to threat detection, incident response, and security monitoring efforts across the enterprise. This is a unique opportunity to shape the growth, development and culture of an exciting and fast-growing company in the cybersecurity market.

What you'll be doing:

  • Monitor security systems and triage alerts.
  • Investigate security incidents and document findings.
  • Coordinate with other teams to contain and eradicate threats.
  • Conduct post-incident analysis and assist in reporting.
  • Support continuous improvement of monitoring and detection processes.

What you need to know:

  • Strong understanding of foundational network and system security concepts.
  • Proficiency using cybersecurity tools and platforms.
  • Ability to analyze alerts, logs, and system behavior to identify suspicious activity.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • High attention to detail.

Must have's:

  • Bachelor's degree.
  • 1+ years of relevant experience.
  • Proven ability to analyze complex requirements and translate them into clear, actionable tasks and processes through critical thinking.
  • Must have the ability to work shifts on a rotating basis for 24/7 support of clients.
  • Travel up to 15%, on average, based on the work you do and the clients and industries/sectors you serve.
  • Applicants must hold and maintain an active DOE Q clearance or equivalent DoD Top Secret clearance..

Beneficial to have the following:

  • Industry-recognized cybersecurity certifications.

Where it's done:

  • Onsite (Las Vegas, NV).