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How much do security clearance jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 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 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 kind of jobs can you get with a security clearance?

Security clearances are required for jobs involving access to classified information, such as government agencies, defense contractors, intelligence agencies, and cybersecurity roles. These positions often involve roles in national security, defense technology, or intelligence analysis, and may require specialized skills and certifications. Having a security clearance can qualify candidates for positions with higher responsibility and access to sensitive data.

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, reliability, and loyalty to the United States. This process includes checks of criminal history, financial records, employment history, and personal conduct, and may require interviews and polygraph tests depending on the clearance level. Candidates typically need to be U.S. citizens and have a need for access to classified information related to their job.

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.
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Security Clearance jobs near you
Infographic showing various Security Clearance job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,353 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Security Specialist with Security Clearance

ARMADA Ltd.

Quantico, VA • On-site

Other

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Type: Full Time Location: Quantico, VA Overtime Exempt: No Reports To: ARMADA HQ Security Clearance Required: Active Top-Secret security clearances and be eligible for Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) special access ****************CONTINGENT UPON AWARD***************** Duties & Responsibilities: * Security Specialist will provide direct support to the Data Intercept Technology Unit (DITU) and other OTD units by submitting, tracking, and coordinating security clearance nominations for private sector employees. * Initiate personnel security background investigations and support the Security Division in obtaining required investigative information throughout the process. * Conduct security briefings and debriefings in accordance with established policies and procedures. * Security Specialist will maintain accurate and up-to-date clearance status records for private sector personnel, ensuring timely follow-up and case management. * Initiate background investigations using systems including, but not limited to, the National Background Investigation Services (NBIS), FBI BEAST, and Phoenix database. * Security Specialist will respond to Security Division inquiries related to background investigations and continuous vetting alerts. * Maintain detailed case tracking records and provide routine case status updates and statistical reporting. * Coordinate with Field Offices and Headquarters Divisions to facilitate fingerprinting and security clearance processing. * Security Specialist will conduct or coordinate Security Awareness Briefings (SABs) with appropriate FBI Field Office or Headquarters personnel. * Upload and manage documentation within Phoenix and Sentinel systems. * Assist with Personal Electronic Devices (PEDS) registration processing. * Security Specialist will prepare Electronic Communications (ECs) in Sentinel as required. * Provide Access Control support when needed. * Security Specialist will perform other duties as assigned. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs): * Must be skilled in creating complex spreadsheets (i.e. Excel, etc.), in preparing briefings (i.e. PowerPoint, etc.), Word, and Adobe Acrobat. * Must be able to communicate clearly; must be able to provide security briefings and debriefings; must be able to provide comprehensive written communications. * Must execute all assigned duties in a professional manner that demonstrates a strong commitment to customer service. Minimum/General Experience: * Must possess Top-Secret personnel security clearances and must be eligible for Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) special access. * Minimum of three (3) years of experience in any security related field, such as industrial security, physical security and computer/network security. Minimum Education: * High School Diploma, or equivalent Disclaimer: The above information has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work to be performed. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of the contractor assigned to this position. Applying: If you feel you have the knowledge, skills and abilities for this position visit our careers page at www.armadausa.com . Special Notes: Relocation is not available for these jobs. ARMADA provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. ARMADA complies with applicable state and local laws governing non-discrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training. Must be able to successfully pass a background check, and pre-employment drug testing. Job offers are contingent upon results of background check and drug testing.

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