1

Q Clearance Jobs (NOW HIRING)

DOE Q or TS clearance required. * Technical Expertise: * Deep knowledge of Cisco routers, switches, firewalls, wireless technologies, and network design principles. (Experience with Juniper and Palo ...

DOE Q or TS clearance required. * Technical Expertise: * Deep knowledge of Cisco routers, switches, firewalls, wireless technologies, and network design principles. (Experience with Juniper and Palo ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Q Clearance information

See salary details

$9

$35

$72

How much do q clearance jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 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.

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.

Is Q clearance a top secret clearance?

Q clearance is a type of security clearance used by the U.S. Department of Energy for access to classified information related to nuclear weapons and energy. It is considered a high-level clearance, but it is not officially designated as a Top Secret clearance, which is a separate classification level used by other agencies.

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, substance abuse, or financial instability that could lead to security risks. Additionally, failure to meet background check requirements, including foreign contacts or unresolved legal issues, can disqualify applicants. Clearances also require a thorough investigation of personal conduct and loyalty to the United States.

Is ClearanceJobs a legitimate site?

ClearanceJobs is a reputable online platform specializing in security clearance jobs, primarily in government and defense sectors. It connects job seekers with employers requiring security clearances and verified background checks. The site is widely used by professionals seeking clearance-specific employment opportunities.

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 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $73,802 per year, or $35.5 per hour.
Network Engineer (TS/Q Clearance required)

Network Engineer (TS/Q Clearance required)

GDIT

Denver, CO • On-site

$110K - $149K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


General Dynamics Information Technology rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 63 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

75th of 210 rated it services


Job description

Type of Requisition:

Regular

Clearance Level Must Currently Possess:

None

Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain:

None

Public Trust/Other Required:

None

Job Family:

IT Infrastructure and Operations

Job Qualifications:

Skills:

Cisco Routers, Cisco Switches, Cisco Technologies, Network Firewalls

Certifications:

None

Experience:

10 + years of related experience

US Citizenship Required:

Yes

Job Description:

Position Title:Network Engineer

Position Summary:
GDIT is seeking an experiencedNetwork Engineerto join our team supporting mission-critical operations for the Department of Energy's National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA). In this role, you will design, implement, maintain, and troubleshoot complex network systems to ensure optimal performance, security, reliability, and scalability in a large-scale Cisco environment.


This is an exciting opportunity to apply your expertise in network infrastructure and security best practices to advance enterprise IT capabilities for critical government programs.

Responsibilities:

  • Infrastructure Design & Implementation:Design, build, and implement network systems for LAN, MAN, and WAN environments, ensuring they meet performance and scalability requirements.
  • System Monitoring & Troubleshooting:Monitor and diagnose network issues, performing root-cause analysis to address connectivity problems and optimize operations.
  • Traffic Analysis & Capacity Planning:Analyze network traffic patterns and provide capacity planning solutions to support infrastructure growth and performance improvements.
  • Vendor Coordination:Interface with vendor support services to ensure timely resolution of issues and proper escalation during outages or performance degradations.
  • System Configuration:Perform system-level design and configuration, determining hardware, operating systems, and platform specifications to meet operational requirements.
  • Quality Assurance:Evaluate and test new and existing network products and technologies, ensuring they align with organizational standards and quality protocols.
  • Network Operations Oversight:Provide technical assistance and oversight across all network operations, including LAN/MAN/WAN administration, security protocols, and systems integration.
  • Policy Input:Contribute to policy discussions by providing insights on standards, technical constraints, and budget considerations impacting network operations.
  • Testing & Optimization:Conduct routine testing and analysis of network hardware, communications systems, and connectivity components.
  • Performance Enhancements:Identify opportunities for network optimization and implement improvements to maximize system performance and security.
  • Documentation:Create and maintain detailed documentation for network configurations, processes, and procedures to support operational consistency.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Education:Bachelor's degree or equivalent years of experience. Having a Cisco certification would be more valuable
  • Experience:12+ years of professional experience in network engineering, infrastructure design, and circuit troubleshooting involving routing & switching protocols.
  • Security Clearance:DOE Q or TS clearance required.
  • Technical Expertise:
    • Deep knowledge of Cisco routers, switches, firewalls, wireless technologies, and network design principles. (Experience with Juniper and Palo Alto also a plus)
    • Expertise in protocols like BGP, OSPF, EIGRP, STP, RSTP, VXLAN, and LACP.
    • Understanding of network security practices, including system hardening and compliance with organizational standards.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • DOE Experience:Previous experience working with the Department of Energy or similar federal agencies.
  • DNS & Configuration Expertise:Familiarity with Microsoft DNS and Unix BIND systems.
  • Compliance Standards:Experience with DISA STIGs and other security frameworks required for federal compliance.
  • CCNA, CCNP, CCDA, CCIE, or other Cisco certification

Work Location:Onsite at client site in Germantown, MD, Albuquerque, NM, or Denver, CO
Citizenship:US Citizenship required.

Security Clearance:DOE Q or TS clearance required.

Why Join GDIT?

At GDIT, your contributions help deliver solutions that ensure national security and operational excellence.

  • Professional Growth:Access internal mobility programs, paid certifications, and continuous learning opportunities to expand your career journey.
  • Comprehensive Benefits:Competitive compensation, health and wellness packages, 401(k) company match, and paid time off.
  • Collaborative Environment:Work alongside a diverse and innovative team that prioritizes teamwork and high-impact results.
  • Mission Impact:Support critical government programs by advancing enterprise IT infrastructure and modernizing essential functions.

#WeAreGDIT #NNSAITOPS

The likely salary range for this position is $110,500 - $149,500. 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.

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

40

Travel Required:

Less than 10%

Telecommuting Options:

Onsite

Work Location:

USA MD Germantown

Additional Work Locations:

USA CO Denver - 1 Denver Federal Center (COC081)

Total Rewards at GDIT:

Our benefits package for all US-based employees includes a variety of medical plan options, some with Health Savings Accounts, dental plan options, a vision plan, and a 401(k) plan offering the ability to contribute both pre and post-tax dollars up to the IRS annual limits and receive a company match. To encourage work/life balance, GDIT offers employees full flex work weeks where possible and a variety of paid time off plans, including vacation, sick and personal time, holidays, paid parental, military, bereavement and jury duty leave. To ensure our employees are able to protect their income, other offerings such as short and long-term disability benefits, life, accidental death and dismemberment, personal accident, critical illness and business travel and accident insurance are provided or available. We regularly review our Total Rewards package to ensure our offerings are competitive and reflect what our employees have told us they value most.

Our Identity Verification Process:

As part of the hiring process, we will ask you to complete an identity verification process that leverages advanced biometrics and artificial intelligence to ensure authenticity and protect against identity fraud. You are expected to be on camera during virtual interviews. We reserve the right to take your picture to verify your identity and prevent fraud. By proceeding, you authorize the collection, processing, and use of your biometric data for identity verification and security purposes.

About Our Work:

We are GDIT. 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. Our 26,000 experts extract the power of technology to create immediate value and deliver solutions at the edge of innovation. We operate across 50+ countries worldwide, offering leading mission-ready capabilities in AI, cloud, cyber and software development.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

What General Dynamics Information Technology employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


General Dynamics Information Technology logo

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