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Special Program Security Certification Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Special Program Security Certification (SPSC) counts towards 5 years of experience * Maximum equivalent experience for SPED Certifications is no more than 5 years Desired: * Bachelor's degree or ...

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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 May 30, 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, and why are they important?

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 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 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 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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 72% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $149,013 per year, or $71.6 per hour.

Program Security Representative II with Security Clearance

P-11 Security

Washington, DC

$18 - $21.25/hr

Other

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

The Program Security Representative’s primary function is to provide multi-discipline security support for one or more of the customer’s 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 Experience:
- 8 – 10 years related experience
- 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 Education:
Bachelor’s degree in a related area or equivalent experience (4 years) Security Clearance:
- Current Top Secret Clearance with SCI Eligibility
- Eligibility for access to Special Access Program Information
- Willingness to submit to a Counterintelligence polygraph