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Special Program Security Certification Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Special Program Security Certification information

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$54.5K

$149K

$167K

How much do special program security certification jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for special program security certification in the United States is $149,013.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $129,000.00 and $157,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in special program security certification roles?

To thrive in Special Program Security Certification roles, you need expertise in security protocols, risk assessment, and compliance, often supported by a bachelor's degree and security clearance (such as DoD Top Secret or Sensitive Compartmented Information). Familiarity with security information management systems, national industrial security program requirements, and certifications like CISSP or Security+ are typically required. Strong attention to detail, discretion, and effective communication are vital soft skills for managing sensitive information and collaborating with stakeholders. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure the protection of classified information and adherence to regulatory standards.

What is a special program security certification?

A Special Program Security Certification is a credential that verifies an individual’s knowledge and ability to manage and protect classified information within special access programs (SAPs) or other sensitive government projects. These certifications are often required for security professionals working with defense or intelligence agencies and demonstrate an understanding of safeguarding national security assets. The process typically involves specialized training, background checks, and sometimes passing a formal examination. Earning this certification helps ensure that only trusted and qualified personnel handle critical security tasks.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in special program security certification roles?

Professionals in Special Program Security Certification often encounter challenges related to balancing strict compliance requirements with evolving operational needs. They must stay updated on changing government regulations, ensure all personnel meet clearance requirements, and address complex security protocols across multiple projects. Additionally, collaboration with cross-functional teams—such as engineering, legal, and operations—is essential to maintain program integrity and support mission objectives. Effective communication and adaptability are key to overcoming these challenges and ensuring program security.

What is the difference between Special Program Security Certification vs Security Analyst?

AspectSpecial Program Security CertificationSecurity Analyst
Required CredentialsSecurity clearances, specialized security certificationsSecurity certifications (CISSP, Security+), sometimes clearance
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, defense contractors, classified projectsCorporate, government, or consulting firms, analyzing security systems
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in defense, aerospace, government sectorsBroadly across industries including finance, tech, government

Special Program Security Certification focuses on securing classified information and working on sensitive projects, often requiring security clearances. Security Analysts evaluate security systems and risks across various industries. While both roles involve security expertise, the certification emphasizes working on classified programs, whereas Security Analysts focus on analyzing and improving security measures in broader environments.

More about Special Program Security Certification jobs
What job categories do people searching Special Program Security Certification jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Special Program Security Certification jobs are:
Infographic showing various Special Program Security Certification job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $149,013 per year, or $71.6 per hour.

Program Security Representative (PSR) III

General Dynamics Information Technology

Arlington, VA • On-site

$137K - $186K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


General Dynamics Information Technology rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 63 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

86th of 221 rated it services


Job description

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REQ#: RQ225155Public Trust: None Requisition Type: Regular Your Impact

Own your opportunity to support our nation's defense. Make an impact by connecting and securing critical operations across the globe, keeping our country safe and secure.

Job Description

The Program Security Representatives primary function is to provide multi-discipline security support for one or more of the customers Special Access Programs (SAPs). The position will provide day-to-day multi-discipline analysis for Collateral, Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) and Special Access Program (SAP) activities.

Performance shall include:

  • Ensure strict adherence to the provisions of the NISPOM, its Supplement, the DoD Overprint, DCID, ICD, and SAP policy.

  • Assist in developing and executing approved policies and procedures for safeguarding Special Access Program (SAP), Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) and collateral data in support of US military operations.

  • Provide day-to-day security support that includes continuous assessment of procedures to identify shortfalls and provide appropriate recommendations for revising and improving security policies, procedures, and systems.

  • Identify vulnerabilities, threats, and risks to test, training, and operational activities.

  • Assist in developing, implementing, and training the Operations Security program.

  • Assist in providing contractor and subordinate facility assistance and oversight.

  • Brief all levels of personnel, both in the government and senior civilian services, on a variety of security related topics.

  • Conduct and document SAP facility compliance reviews, follow-on facility reviews, and facility close-outs.

  • Monitor, report and track all corrective actions resulting from compliance reviews.

  • Ensure timely notification of pertinent security matters to program technical and management staff.

  • Conduct exploration of any loss, compromise, or suspected compromise of classified and/or sensitive information, including conducting preliminary inquiries and generating damage assessments resulting from the loss of classified information.

  • Coordinate with SAP security personnel to ensure lessons learned are incorporated into the curriculum for the SAP security education & awareness program.

  • Provide leadership, mentoring, and oversight of team members.


Experience:

  • 10+ years related experience

  • 2+ years SAP experience required


Education:

  • Bachelors degree in a related area OR Associates degree in a related area + 2 years experience OR equivalent experience (4 years)

Experience Education Equivalents:

  • Security Fundamentals Professional Certification (SFPC) counts towards 3 years of experience

  • Special Program Security Certification (SPSC) counts towards 5 years of experience

  • Maximum equivalent experience for SPED Certifications is no more than 5 years


Clearance Required to Start:

  • TS/SCI required

  • Must be able to Attain TS/SCI with CI Polygraph

Travel Requirements:

  • 10-25% travel

GDIT IS YOUR PLACE:

  • 401K with company match

  • Comprehensive health and wellness packages

  • Internal mobility team dedicated to helping you own your career

  • Professional growth opportunities including paid education and certifications

  • Cutting-edge technology you can learn from

  • Rest and recharge with paid vacation and holiday

#AirforceSAPOpportunities

Work Requirements
Years of Experience

10 + years of related experience

* may vary based on technical training, certification(s), or degree

Certification

SFPC: Security Fundamentals Professional Certification - Defense Security Service (DSS) - Defense Security Service (DSS)

Special Program Security Certification - Department of Defense (DoD) - Department of Defense (DoD)

Travel Required

10-25%

Citizenship

U.S. Citizenship Required

Salary and Benefit Information

The likely salary range for this position is $137,870 - $186,530. This is not, however, a guarantee of compensation or salary. Rather, salary will be set based on experience, geographic location and possibly contractual requirements and could fall outside of this range.
View information about benefits and our total rewards program.

Our Identity Verification Process

As part of the hiring process, we will ask you to complete an identity verification process that leverages advanced biometrics and artificial intelligence to ensure authenticity and protect against identity fraud. You are expected to be on camera during virtual interviews. We reserve the right to take your picture to verify your identity and prevent fraud. By proceeding, you authorize the collection, processing, and use of your biometric data for identity verification and security purposes.

About Our Work

We are GDIT. A global technology and professional services company that delivers technology solutions and mission services to every major agency across the U.S. government, defense and intelligence community. Our 26,000 experts extract the power of technology to create immediate value and deliver solutions at the edge of innovation. We operate across 50+ countries worldwide, offering leading mission-ready capabilities in AI, cloud, cyber and software development.

Join our Talent Community to stay up to date on our career opportunities and events at gdit.com/tc.

Equal Opportunity Employer / Individuals with Disabilities / Protected Veterans


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About General Dynamics Information Technology

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GDIT is a global technology and professional services company that delivers technology solutions and mission services to every major agency across the U.S. government, defense, and intelligence community. Its 30,000 experts extract the power of technology to create immediate value and deliver solutions at the edge of innovation. The company operates across 50+ countries worldwide, offering leading capabilities in digital modernization, AI/ML, cloud, cyber, and application development.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US