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How much do q clearance jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 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 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.

Is Q level clearance real?

Q clearance is a real security clearance level used by the U.S. government for access to top-secret information, particularly related to national security and defense. It involves a thorough background check, polygraph testing, and ongoing security assessments. Q clearance is often required for jobs in intelligence agencies, defense contractors, and related fields.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A Q Clearance is a high-level security clearance used for sensitive government projects, not a job itself. Generally, roles that can pay $10,000 a month without a degree include specialized trades like commercial pilot, real estate developer, or certain sales positions in tech or finance that rely on experience and skills rather than formal education. These jobs often require significant expertise, certifications, or a strong track record to reach such income levels.

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a Q Clearance (DOE security 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 disqualifies you from Q clearance?

Q clearance is typically denied to individuals with a history of criminal activity, drug abuse, or financial irresponsibility. Additionally, failure to pass a thorough background investigation, including checks for loyalty, foreign contacts, or security risks, can disqualify applicants. Clearance also requires adherence to strict security and conduct standards throughout employment.

How hard is it to get a Q clearance?

Obtaining a Q clearance, which is required for certain classified government jobs, involves a thorough background investigation, including checks of criminal, financial, and personal history. The process can take several months and requires detailed documentation and interviews, with eligibility based on trustworthiness and national security considerations.

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.
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Q Clearance jobs near you
Infographic showing various Q Clearance job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 9% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $73,802 per year, or $35.5 per hour.
Senior Nuclear Operations with Security Clearance

Senior Nuclear Operations with Security Clearance

Ahtna, Inc.

Oak Ridge, TN

Other

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Senior Nuclear Operations / Startup & Commissioning Support (Q Cleared)
Location: Oak Ridge, TN
Start Date: July (anticipated)
Employment Type: Full-Time
Clearance Requirement: Active DOE Q Clearance (required) Position Overview
We are seeking four (4) senior-level, Q Cleared professionals to support nuclear facility readiness, startup, and commissioning activities. This is a long-term, full-time assignment supporting critical nuclear operations in the Oak Ridge, Tennessee area.
The selected candidates will provide expertise across operations, safety, and systems oversight in support of DOE/NNSA nuclear missions. This role is ideal for seasoned nuclear professionals with deep experience in either DOE/NNSA nuclear facilities or commercial nuclear operations. Required Qualifications Active DOE Q Clearance (required at time of start)
Minimum 10 years of nuclear experience
Demonstrated experience supporting DOE/NNSA nuclear operations and/or commercial nuclear facilities
Prior involvement with facility readiness, startup, or commissioning activities
Ability to work full time on-site in the Oak Ridge, TN area Desired / Targeted Skill Sets Nuclear facility operations
Uranium processing experience (highly preferred)
Nuclear safety and compliance
DOE safety basis and safety system oversight
Nuclear criticality safety
Instrumentation & Control (I&C) systems
Uranium Processing Facility (UPF) experience How to Apply
Qualified candidates with an active Q Clearance and relevant nuclear operations experience are encouraged to submit their resume to the Recruiter, Linda MacCubbin, .
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About Ahtna

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Ahtna, Incorporated is one of 13 Alaska Native Regional Corporations established by Congress under terms of the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act of 1971. Based in Glennallen, Alaska, Ahtna, Inc. is owned by more than 2,000 shareholders, the majority of whom are of Ahtna Athabascan descent. Many Ahtna shareholders still reside in the Ahtna region, the traditional homeland of the Ahtna people. As an Alaska Native and shareholder-owned corporation, Ahtna, Inc. is committed to its vision and mission statements, with the goal of preserving, strengthening, and enhancing a cultural identity that has existed for thousands of years. Ahtna’s efforts are focused on providing a broad range of opportunities for shareholders, continued business growth and diversification, and effective management of all Ahtna resources.

Industry

Executive offices and legislative bodies

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Glennallen, AK, US

Year founded

1971

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