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Security Clearance Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

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Security Clearance information

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$15

$27

$42

How much do security clearance jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for security clearance in Reston, VA is $27.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.02 and $31.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a security clearance?

Security clearance is a classification status for workers who need to have access to confidential or sensitive information, such as classified military information, information related to utilities and other infrastructure that is of vital importance to the federal government, or secret technical information related to national security measures. There are varying degrees of clearance, and in order to meet the qualifications for them, you must go through a rigorous background check. Specific departments, such as the Department of Energy and the CIA, conduct their own clearance investigations. Typically, you must undergo periodic recertifications to maintain your clearance status or move to a higher level, depending on your job duties.

What is a security clearance?

A security clearance is an official authorization granted by a government agency that allows an individual to access classified or sensitive information. Security clearances are typically required for jobs that involve national security or sensitive government projects. The clearance process involves a thorough background check, including a review of criminal, financial, and personal history. There are different levels of security clearances, such as Confidential, Secret, and Top Secret, depending on the sensitivity of the information involved. Obtaining a security clearance can take several months and requires ongoing compliance with security protocols.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a role requiring a security clearance?

To excel in a role requiring a security clearance, candidates typically need a strong background in their field, a clean personal and professional record, and eligibility for clearance as determined by government standards. Familiarity with security protocols, classified information handling systems, and possibly specialized certifications like CompTIA Security+ or CISSP are often required depending on the specific job. Integrity, discretion, and strong communication skills distinguish standout professionals in these sensitive positions. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure the protection of sensitive information and maintain national security.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in roles requiring a security clearance?

Professionals in positions that require a security clearance often encounter challenges such as strict adherence to confidentiality protocols, ongoing background checks, and limitations on discussing work details with family or friends. Maintaining clearance also involves regular reporting of foreign travel and financial changes, which can feel intrusive but is necessary for national security. Additionally, the work environment may be highly structured with restricted access to information, requiring strong attention to detail and trustworthiness in all interactions.

What is the difference between Security Clearance vs Security Guard?

AspectSecurity ClearanceSecurity Guard
Required CredentialsBackground checks, sometimes polygraph, security-specific trainingBasic security training, possibly licensing depending on location
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, defense contractors, sensitive facilitiesPrivate or public venues, retail, events, buildings
Employer & Industry UsageFederal government, defense, intelligenceSecurity companies, retail, corporate buildings
Common Search & ComparisonYesNo

Security clearance involves obtaining access to classified information after thorough background checks, primarily for government or defense roles. Security guards provide physical security at various locations without requiring clearance. While both roles focus on security, security clearance is a credential for access to sensitive info, whereas security guards are responsible for physical safety.

What qualifies you for a security clearance?

To qualify for a security clearance, an individual must undergo a background investigation to assess trustworthiness, loyalty, and reliability. This process includes checks of criminal history, financial records, and personal conduct, and may require interviews and polygraph tests depending on the clearance level and job requirements.

What are the most commonly searched types of Security Clearance jobs in Reston, VA?

The most popular types of Security Clearance jobs in Reston, VA are:

What are popular job titles related to Security Clearance jobs in Reston, VA?

For Security Clearance jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Security Clearance jobs in Reston, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Security Clearance jobs in Reston, VA are:

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Security Clearance jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Security Clearance job openings:

Infographic showing various Security Clearance job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,586 per year, or $27.7 per hour.

Security Associate with Security Clearance

Core One

Sterling, VA • On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

Other

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

Join our team at Core One! Our mission is to be at the forefront of devising analytical, operational and technical solutions to our Nation's most complex national security challenges. In order to achieve our mission, Core One values people first! We are committed to recruiting, nurturing, and retaining top talent! We offer a competitive total compensation package that sets us apart from our competition. Core One is a team-oriented, dynamic, and growing company that values exceptional performance! Core One seeks a Security Associate to provide administrative and operational support for the company's industrial security program. Working under the direction of the Senior Facility Security Officer (FSO), this entry level position assists with personnel security, facility security, security compliance, and security administration activities that support the company's obligations as a cleared defense contractor. The Security Associate will maintain security records, coordinate administrative security processes, support compliance initiatives, and assist with day-to-day security operations while developing expertise in industrial security. This position is intended as a developmental role with opportunities to progress toward Assistant Facility Security Officer (AFSO) responsibilities over time. Responsibilities: * Support the administration of the company's industrial security program under the direction of the FSO. * Assist with personnel security administration, including onboarding, clearance paperwork, transfers, periodic reinvestigations, and security record maintenance. * Utilize government and internal security systems, including DISS, NBIS, and related platforms, as authorized. * Coordinate visit requests, visitor notifications, access authorizations, and facility access activities. * Maintain security files, documentation, trackers, and records in accordance with company policy and government requirements. * Support employee security briefings, annual security awareness training, and training record administration. * Assist with classified material accountability, inventories, storage, transmission, and destruction activities. * Support administration of facility access controls, badges, visitor logs, and secure work areas. * Assist with preparation for DCSA assessments, self-inspections, internal reviews, and other compliance activities. * Maintain DD254s and other contract security documentation. * Coordinate with Human Resources, Contracts, Information Technology, and Program Management on security-related administrative activities. * Assist in documenting security incidents, violations, and other reportable events. * Maintain confidentiality of sensitive personnel, contractual, and classified information. * Perform other duties as assigned in support of Security and Operations objectives. Qualifications: * Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Criminal Justice, Homeland Security, Security Management, or a related field preferred. * 0 to 2 years of professional experience in administrative, operational, compliance, or security support functions. * Active Secret security clearance preferred, or ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance. * Strong organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail. * Strong written and verbal communication skills. * Ability to manage multiple assignments and competing priorities in a fast-paced environment. * Demonstrated ability to learn new systems, regulations, and business processes quickly. * Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. * Ability to exercise sound judgment and maintain strict confidentiality. * Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with cross-functional teams. Desired Qualifications: * Familiarity with industrial security concepts, NISPOM requirements, or government contracting. * Experience using DISS, NBIS, or other personnel security systems. * Experience supporting compliance, records management, or administrative operations. * Interest in pursuing Facility Security Officer (FSO) certification and a career in industrial security. Security Clearance: * Eligible for Secret Clearance Salary Range: $60,000 - $65,000 The pay range reflected above is a general guideline for this position and labor category and is not a guarantee of a specific salary or offer. Final compensation is determined based on factors including, but not limited to, relevant experience, education, certifications, security clearance level, contract requirements, geographic location, and internal pay equity, and may reflect market data specific to the awarded contract. Core One is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

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About Core One

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Sterling, VA, US