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How much do security clearance jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for security clearance in the United States is $26.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.15 and $30.53 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 cities are hiring for Security Clearance jobs?

Cities with the most Security Clearance job openings:

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

The most popular types of Security Clearance jobs are:

What states have the most Security Clearance jobs?

States with the most job openings for Security Clearance jobs include:

Infographic showing various Security Clearance job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,353 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Security Specialist with Security Clearance

University of Maryland

College Park, MD • On-site

Other

Re-posted 26 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Protect personnel, facilities, equipment, property, information systems, and classified information in accordance with security protocols.

  • Respond to emergencies, manage access control, and support incident management to ensure safety and security.

  • Perform inspections, monitor alarms and security systems, and assist during periods of inclement weather or operational disruptions.


University Of Maryland, Baltimore rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

265th of 630 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Organization's Summary Statement:
The Applied Research Laboratory for Intelligence & Security (ARLIS) at the University of Maryland is a University-Affiliated Research Center (UARC) dedicated to advancing research, innovation, and technology transition to improve decision making for U.S. national security. ARLIS combines deep scientific expertise with operational insight to address challenges in intelligence analysis, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence / machine learning, quantum science, and human-machine teaming. Researchers, scientists, engineers, and analysts at ARLIS collaborate with government agencies, industry partners, and academic institutions to deliver actionable insights and transformative solutions through research and development. Employees at ARLIS work on projects of critical importance, contribute directly to the nation’s security, and are supported by a culture that values integrity, collaboration, and professional growth. Key Responsibilities:
Primary duties include the physical protection of a Department of Defense (DoD) sponsored University Affiliated Research Center (UARC) and the ability to properly safeguard personnel, facilities, equipment, property, information systems, and classified information in the interests of U.S. National security. This position is designated as essential and requires the incumbent to report to their assigned or alternate work location during emergencies, including severe weather, major operational disruptions, or other critical incidents. The Security Officer is expected to respond as needed including during overtime, campus openings/closings, major transitions, and emergencies to ensure the safety and security of ARLIS personnel, property, and operations. Duties may include emergency response, access control, incident management, and general support during periods of inclement weather. Must be able to obtain a U.S. security clearance. If selected, you must meet the requirements for access to classified information and will be subject to a government security clearance investigation that includes criminal and credit history checks, as well as verification of U.S. citizenship, birth, education, employment, and military history. Final offer is contingent upon the candidate’s ability to successfully obtain the necessary interim Secret security clearance, as determined by the U.S. Government, prior to commencing employment. Physical Demands:
- Must be able to sit or stand either inside or outside for extended periods while maintaining a high level of vigilance and attention to detail
- Must be able to perform inspections both inside (e.g.- desks checks) and outside of facility (exterior building and grounds; this occasionally requires visual checks under raised floors and above ceilings
- Must be able to spend long periods of time standing and walking when escorting uncleared visitors or similar access-control related duties
- Must be able to perform data entry and security-related computer-based tasks for significant periods of time
- Must be able to respond to visual and auditory alarms and other indicators of emergency situations within the time and response parameters outline in the appropriate DCIDs, ICDs, NISPOM/32 CFR Part 117, and facility operating procedures
- Must be able to communicate visually and verbally with others effectively during both normal and emergency operations
- Occasional lifting and moving of equipment and supplies with weight of up to 25-30 pounds. - This position is considered essential and may be required to work at the normal work location or an alternative location during a major catastrophic event, weather emergency, or other operational emergency to help maintain the continuity of ARLIS services. Preferences:
- Must possess (or qualify for) an active U.S. Government Top Secret security clearance (SCI eligibility preferred). - Associates degree or 3+ years of directly related security experience specifically in classified environments.
- Understanding of classified material control procedures, and incident response protocols. - Valid Maryland Non-commercial Class C or equivalent driver’s license. - Successful completion of basic applicable DCSA Center for Development of Security Excellence coursework: DoD Security Specialist (GS101.01); Physical Security Measures (PY103.16); Visitor Control and Escort Procedures (VC101.16); Badge and Credentialing Security (BC102.16); Insider Threat Awareness (INT101.16)
- Knowledge and experience using 32 Code of Federal Regulation (CFR) Part 117, NISPOM - Hands-on experience using DISS and related programs for visitor management and personnel clearance verification. Experience administering, operating, monitoring, and troubleshooting alarms, access control systems, CCTV systems, and associated infrastructure.
Minimum Qualifications
EDUCATION: High school diploma or GED equivalent EXPERIENCE: Must possess a stable work history with progressively responsible experience. Experience with the operation and use of CCTV, computerized alarm and access control systems. Previous experience working in a totally secure environment is preferred.
Additional Job Details Required Application Materials: Cover Letter, Resume, List of References Best Consideration Date: 7/3/26

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