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Q Clearance Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM (NOW HIRING)

MELE Associates, Inc.

Technical Writer

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

Must be able to obtain a DOE Q clearance * Bachelor's Degree in English, Communications or Technical Writing and work experience in training design, education or related discipline combined * At ...

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How much do q clearance jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for q clearance in Rio Rancho, NM is $30.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.78 and $46.33 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.

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Cities near Rio Rancho, NM with the most Q Clearance job openings:

Q Clearance jobs near you
Infographic showing various Q Clearance job openings in Rio Rancho, NM as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $64,077 per year, or $30.8 per hour.

Sr Systems Engineer with Security Clearance

BlueWater Federal Solutions

Kirtland Air Force Base, NM • On-site

$97K - $133K/yr

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Job Description Overview BlueWater Federal is looking for a Sr. Systems Engineer to provide administration and architecture support of Enterprise Application services to include Active Directory, Exchange, VMWare tools, COTS, GOTS, etc. The effort will focus on a wide range of IT services through migration to the Intelligence Community (IC) information sharing, secure cloud-based operational environment, the Intelligence Community's Information Technology Enterprise (ICITE) along with an array of technical expertise and analytical support which allows DOE and the United States Intelligence Community (USIC) to detect, protect, mitigate, and counter hostile threats directed against DOE networks and critical national assets Responsibilities * Vulnerability remediation on Windows OS & database as directed utilizing tools such as Tenable/ACAS * Support virtual and physical desktop and endpoint security and upgrade efforts utilizing tools such as PDQ and/or Microsoft Endpoint Manager/Intune * Support Windows 10 and newer OS upgrades, overall EOL Tech Refresh efforts, image creation and deployment * Develop, configure, deploy, and maintain VDI infrastructure utilizing tools such as VMware Horizon * Provide technical support for server OS-based issues. * Perform system checks and review server OS event logs and mitigate any identified issues * Review, test, and install appropriate firmware, security patches and upgrades for all Windows OS across all environments * Provide Tier 3 Server OS and Desktop Support Qualifications * Bachelor's degree or equivalent and 17+ years of systems engineering experience * Must have experience with Windows environments, emphasis on specialized AD experience, Powershell, scripting, Active Directory including schema administration, Group Policy (GPO) creation/consolidation/troubleshooting, FISMO role administration * Must have an active Top Secret clearance; highly desired is a TS with SSBI within last 2 years or Q clearance or SCI. BlueWater Federal Solutions is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law. BlueWater Federal Solutions is a VEVRAA federal contractor and we request priority referral of veterans.

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