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Tier 3 Security Clearance Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Tier 3 Security Clearance information

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$14

$26

$40

How much do tier 3 security clearance jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for tier 3 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 skills and qualifications are needed for a role requiring a Tier 3 Security Clearance?

To thrive in a position requiring a Tier 3 Security Clearance, you need a clean background, strong ethical standards, and relevant job-specific knowledge or experience. Familiarity with security protocols, government information systems, and completion of required federal background investigations are typical technical requirements. Integrity, attention to detail, and discretion are vital soft skills to maintain trust and handle sensitive information appropriately. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure national security, compliance with regulations, and the safe handling of classified materials.

What unique challenges might I face when working in a role that requires Tier 3 Security Clearance?

Working in a position that requires Tier 3 Security Clearance can present distinct challenges, such as adhering to strict protocols for handling sensitive information and maintaining high standards of personal conduct both on and off the job. You may also experience periodic reinvestigations and ongoing monitoring, which can add pressure to consistently demonstrate trustworthiness and reliability. Additionally, collaboration with colleagues is often governed by the need-to-know principle, which can limit information sharing and require careful communication. However, these challenges are balanced by the opportunity to work on mission-critical projects and access to specialized career paths within government or defense sectors.

How long does a Tier 3 Security Clearance take?

A Tier 3 Security Clearance typically takes between 6 to 12 months to process, depending on the complexity of the background investigation and agency workload. The process involves thorough background checks, interviews, and review of personal and professional history, often requiring detailed documentation from the applicant.

What jobs can I get with a Tier 3 Security Clearance?

A Tier 3 Security Clearance qualifies individuals for advanced security roles such as cybersecurity analyst, intelligence officer, or defense contractor positions that require access to sensitive information. These jobs often involve working in government agencies, military support, or private firms supporting national security, and may require specialized skills, certifications, or experience in security protocols and threat assessment.

What is the difference between Tier 3 Security Clearance vs Security Guard?

AspectTier 3 Security ClearanceSecurity Guard
Required CredentialsBackground check, security clearance process, possibly specialized trainingBasic security training, sometimes licensing depending on location
Work EnvironmentGovernment facilities, sensitive sites, classified information environmentsPrivate or public property, retail, events, general security settings
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, defense contractors, intelligence agenciesSecurity companies, retail stores, event venues

Tier 3 Security Clearance involves a higher level of background checks and access to sensitive information, typically used in government and defense sectors. Security Guards generally perform physical security duties with minimal background requirements. The key difference lies in the level of access and credentials needed for each role.

What is a Tier 3 Security Clearance?

A Tier 3 Security Clearance is a type of federal background investigation required for positions designated as needing access to classified information at the 'confidential' or 'secret' level. It involves a National Agency Check with Law and Credit (NACLC), which reviews an individual's criminal, credit, and employment history. Tier 3 is commonly required for military personnel, federal employees, and contractors in sensitive roles. The investigation aims to ensure that individuals are trustworthy and do not pose a security risk to the government. The process typically takes several months and must be periodically renewed.
More about Tier 3 Security Clearance jobs
What cities are hiring for Tier 3 Security Clearance jobs? Cities with the most Tier 3 Security Clearance job openings:
What states have the most Tier 3 Security Clearance jobs? States with the most job openings for Tier 3 Security Clearance jobs include:
Infographic showing various Tier 3 Security Clearance job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 88% In-person, 6% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,353 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Security Manager - PORTSMOUTH, VA / HYBRID (REMOTE)

ASP Web Solutions

Portsmouth, VA • On-site, Remote

$95K - $103K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

ASP Web Solutions, LLC is looking for a Security Manager to join our team in Portsmouth, VA. This person is responsible for day-to-day on-site operations and maintenance of the diagnostic, quality control, and clinical workstations that are included in the OPM suitability and fitness policy program.
The ideal candidate will have a DOD background, a solid understanding of DOD childcare background checks.
Job Description:
  • Knowledge of Office of Personnel Management suitability and fitness standards, information, and industrial security policies within federal or DoD environments.
  • Ability to develop suitability and fitness policy and manage compliance programs.
  • Demonstrated expertise in DoD/OPM suitability adjudication.
  • Completion of OPM Fundamentals of Suitability for Suitability and Fitness Adjudicators course: https://www.opm.gov/suitability/suitability-executive-agent/suitability-training/#url=Fundamentals-of-Suitability within the last 3 years; or enroll within 60 days upon onboarding.
  • Familiarity with DoD childcare background check policies.
  • Experience drafting, reviewing, and revising policies, SOPs, CONOPS, and implementation plans.
  • Advanced knowledge of DoD interagency coordination, policy development, and action officer responsibilities.
  • Strong database management and reporting skills.
  • Ability to coordinate meeting minutes, action tracking, and partner engagement documentation

Minimal Qualifications
  • Minimum of a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (Emergency Management, Security Studies, Public Policy, or related discipline).
  • Minimum 5 years of relevant professional experience; OR in lieu of degree, 10 years of progressively responsible experience.
  • Successful completion of the Federal Coordinating Center (FCC) Course within the last 3 years: https://health.mil/Military-Health-Topics/Education-and-Training/DMRTI/Course-Information/Federal-Coordinating-Center-Course; or enroll within 180 days upon onboarding.
  • Contractors performing FCC functions under this contract will be U.S. Citizens and are required to obtain and maintain favorable a Tier 3 security clearance with SECRET Eligibility. SECRET access must be granted to access SIPRNET and attend meetings classified at the SECRET level. Contractors performing other functions on this contract are required to obtain and maintain favorable Tier 3 security clearance with No Eligibility.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and collaboration tools.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills.

Benefits:
  • Two Week Vacation
  • Paid Medical/Dental/Vision
  • 401k
  • Paid Federal Holidays
  • Sick Leave
If qualified, please send resume to [email protected]