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How much do q clearance jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 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 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 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,802 per year, or $35.5 per hour.

Structural Engineer - Nuclear Energy, Q Clearance

Centrus Energy

Mount Sterling, OH

$78K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Job Description Job Summary: Shape the future of energy infrastructure at the American Centrifuge Plant (ACP) in Piketon, Ohio. Centrus Energy is seeking an experienced, proactive Civil/Structural Design Engineer to lead the engineering development, analysis, and execution of facility modifications within a high-stakes, safety-critical environment. In this role, you will bridge the gap between design concepts and field execution, ensuring all structural steel, concrete systems, foundations, and equipment supports meet the highest standards ofquality, safety, and regulatory compliance from design to turnover. What You Will Do:
  • Lead Structural Design & Analysis: Drive civil/structural engineering for site modifications, performing complex analyses for static and dynamic loads, including wind, seismic, vibration, and thermal effects-to verify structural capacity for new and existing systems.
  • Engineering Deliverables: Develop, review, and redline comprehensive design packages (drawings, specifications, calculations) for foundations, structural steel, and equipment anchorage, focusing on buildability and reducing field rework risk.
  • Interdisciplinary Coordination: Collaborate closely with mechanical, electrical, and I&C teams to ensure seamless integration of equipment loads, penetrations, and layout constraints.
  • Field Engineering & Compliance: Support construction through field walkdowns, RFI/RFC resolution, and as-built updates, ensuring all work adheres to stringent configuration control and safety regulations.
  • Procurement & Project Support: Develop detailed, code-compliant procurement packages (ROMs, SOWs) for subcontracted fabrication and installation, supporting technical bid evaluations.
We'd Love to Hear from People With:
  • Bachelor of Science degree in Civil or Structural Engineering (or equivalent) from an ABET-accredited institution.
  • Experienced professional (5+ yrs) with a strong background in structural design, analysis, and field support, preferably within a regulated, industrial, or nuclear environment.
  • Strong working knowledge of AISC, ACI, and applicable seismic/building codes.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Q level security clearance.
A Successful Candidate Brings:
  • Active Q or Top Secret Clearance
Pay Estimated Starting Base Salary Range: $78,581-$130,969. This position is Bonus eligible. Centrus considers several factors when extending job offers, including but not limited to candidates' key skills, relevant work experience, and education/training/certifications. While the posted range reflects the anticipated hiring range for this position, compensation above the range may be considered for candidates with exceptional qualifications and directly relevant experience. In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire. This position will require a pre--employment background check and a pre-employment drug test. Centrus Energy and all subsidiaries shall abide by the applicable legal requirements. We prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their status as protected veterans or individuals with disabilities and prohibit discrimination against all individuals based on their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or national origin. This position requires the successful candidate to obtain and maintain a Q security clearance. Candidates for positions requiring a security clearance are required to be tested for the absence of any illegal drug as defined in 10 CFR 707.4 prior to an offer of employment being made. In addition, once employed, employees will become part of a random drug testing program and may also be tested in the event of any incident causing injury or causing damage to property, or if it is determined that there is a reasonable suspicion the employee is under the influence of drugs or alcohol. This position will require preemployment background check on the part of the Company and in order to receive a Q security clearance, a background investigation by the Federal government. Subsequent Federal government reinvestigations may be required. Centrus Energy Corp. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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