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Security Clearance Engineering Jobs in California

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Security Clearance Engineering information

See California salary details

$60.7K

$150.8K

$202.8K

How much do security clearance engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for security clearance engineering in California is $150,773.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $141,100.00 and $156,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is security clearance engineering?

A Security Clearance Engineering job involves working on classified projects that require special government authorization. Engineers in these roles design, develop, and maintain secure systems for defense, intelligence, or government agencies. They must obtain a security clearance, which involves background checks and adherence to strict security protocols. Common fields include aerospace, cybersecurity, and defense contracting. Strong technical skills and knowledge of compliance regulations are essential for these positions.

What does a security clearance engineer do?

As a Security Clearance Engineer, you'll often work on designing, implementing, and maintaining secure systems for government or defense-related projects. Your daily responsibilities may include conducting security assessments, developing risk mitigation strategies, ensuring compliance with specific security standards, and troubleshooting technical issues. You may also collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including project managers, analysts, and field technicians, to deliver comprehensive security solutions. Given the sensitive nature of these projects, you'll be expected to handle confidential information responsibly while adapting to rapidly evolving security requirements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed for security clearance engineering?

To succeed in Security Clearance Engineering, you need a solid background in information security, systems engineering, and risk management, often supported by a degree in engineering or a related field and eligibility for a government security clearance. Familiarity with security frameworks, access control systems, vulnerability assessment tools, and certifications such as CISSP or CompTIA Security+ is frequently required. Excellent problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and strong verbal and written communication skills help you excel in collaborating across teams and with clients. These competencies are crucial for ensuring compliance with security policies, protecting sensitive information, and facilitating secure engineering solutions in high-stakes environments.

Do security clearance engineers need security clearance?

Security clearance engineers typically need to hold or be eligible for a security clearance themselves, as their work involves handling sensitive information. The level of clearance required depends on the project and employer, and obtaining clearance often involves background checks and security assessments. Having relevant technical skills and security training can facilitate the clearance process.

What jobs can I get with a security clearance?

Security clearance is often required for roles in government agencies, defense contractors, intelligence, cybersecurity, and aerospace industries. Common jobs include security analyst, systems engineer, intelligence analyst, and project manager, which involve handling sensitive information and require background checks and certifications. Having a security clearance can expand employment opportunities in these fields and often leads to higher-level positions.

What are the most commonly searched types of Security Clearance Engineering jobs in California?

The most popular types of Security Clearance Engineering jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Security Clearance Engineering jobs in California?

For Security Clearance Engineering jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Security Clearance Engineering jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Security Clearance Engineering jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Security Clearance Engineering jobs?

Cities in California with the most Security Clearance Engineering job openings:

Security Clearance Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Security Clearance Engineering job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $150,773 per year, or $72.5 per hour.

Hardware Engineer with Security Clearance

San Diego, CA • On-site

Tactical Engineering & Analysis, Inc.
See more jobs at Tactical Engineering & Analysis, Inc.external

$80K - $105K/yr

Other

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

The Hardware Engineer will support the integration, configuration, and testing of Software Defined Radio (SDR) systems and associated Radio Frequency (RF) hardware. This entry- to junior-level position requires a basic understanding of RF principles, electronic hardware, and the components commonly used in RF systems. The engineer will assist with hardware setup and integration, troubleshooting, configuration management, and technical documentation. When hardware support is not required, the engineer will also assist the test team with system setup, test execution, troubleshooting, and documenting results. CORE FUNCTIONS / JOB DUITES Able to perform the following, under close supervision: Assist in the design, prototype, and testing of new hardware components and systems, including but not limited to processors, circuit boards, and memory devices. Collaborate with software engineers and other stakeholders to ensure hardware and software integration. Assist in analyzing and troubleshooting hardware-related issues, providing solutions and improvements. Provide input for technical documentation, including schematics and test reports. Assist in the hardware production/validation processes and ensuring products meet quality and compliance standards. Participate in multidisciplinary team projects and contribute to process improvements Stay updated with the latest hardware advancements and apply relevant innovations to ongoing projects. SKILLS & ABILITIES Foundational knowledge of the following: Hardware Design and Debugging Tools Hardware Testing Methodologies Networking hardware or embedded system development Circuit Design Programming Operating System familiarity Product development and lifecycle management Troubleshooting EDUCATION & CERTIFICATIONS Bachelor of Science in STEM field preferred TYPICAL WORKING CONDITIONS General office environment Computer/Equipment lab PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS May be expected to lift up to 25 lbs Frequent use of keyboard and typing Frequent sitting and standing WORK SCHEDULE 9/80 The ability to work non-standard work hours and schedules in support of project requirements. PAY RANGE $80,000.00 to $105,000.00 annually, DOE U.S. Citizenship is Required SECURITY CLEARANCE Candidates must have an active clearance OR the ability to obtain a US Government security clearance and will be subject to a US security background investigation (i.e. favorable background investigation / credit score). Additional eligibility requirements for access to various levels of classified information may also be required. An active security clearance is highly desirable. Tactical Engineering & Analysis, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Minority/Female/Disability/Protected Veteran Employer

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