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Top Secret Clearance Jobs (NOW HIRING)

GRIMM

Tester - Top Secret Clearance

Arlington, VA · On-site

Must be a US Citizen with Top Secret Clearance * Must have a Bachelor Degree in computer science, computer engineering, math, or a related field. LOCATION * Arlington, VA Additional Information We ...

GRIMM

Tester - Top Secret Clearance

Arlington, VA · On-site

Must be a US Citizen with Top Secret Clearance * Must have a Bachelor Degree in computer science, computer engineering, math, or a related field. LOCATION * Arlington, VA Additional Information We ...

SPACE EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGIES CORP

$125 - $195/hr

Software Engineer, HITL - Top Secret Clearance Hawthorne, CA SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where ...

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How much do top secret clearance jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for top secret clearance in the United States is $134,144.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $115,000.00 and $144,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Top Secret Clearance?

A Top Secret Clearance is the highest level of security clearance granted by the U.S. government. It allows an individual access to information or material that could cause exceptionally grave damage to national security if disclosed without authorization. Obtaining this clearance involves an extensive background investigation, including checks on personal, financial, and criminal history. Only individuals with a legitimate need to know can be granted this clearance, and it must be renewed periodically.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in roles that require a Top Secret Clearance?

Professionals in positions requiring a Top Secret Clearance often encounter challenges related to maintaining strict confidentiality, adhering to rigorous security protocols, and managing the stress of handling sensitive information. Daily responsibilities typically include safeguarding classified materials, following detailed reporting procedures, and undergoing regular security evaluations. Collaboration may be limited to cleared colleagues, which can sometimes restrict information sharing and require careful coordination. Additionally, the need for ongoing background checks and the potential for sudden re-investigations can add to the pressure of the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in roles requiring Top Secret Clearance, and why are they important?

To excel in positions requiring a Top Secret Clearance, individuals must demonstrate reliability, integrity, and a clean personal and professional background, often supported by relevant education or military experience. Familiarity with secure communication systems, classified information protocols, and potentially certifications like Security+ or CISSP is essential. Strong judgment, discretion, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are valuable soft skills in these sensitive environments. These qualities are critical because they ensure the protection of national security information and maintain the trust necessary for handling classified material.

What is the difference between Top Secret Clearance vs Confidential Clearance?

AspectTop Secret ClearanceConfidential Clearance
Required CredentialsBackground check, polygraph (if applicable), security interviewBasic background check, fingerprinting
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, defense contractors, intelligence agenciesSimilar environments but for less sensitive information
Employer & Industry UsageMilitary, intelligence, national securityGovernment offices, civilian agencies

Top Secret Clearance is a higher level of security clearance than Confidential Clearance, allowing access to more sensitive information. While both require background checks and security interviews, Top Secret Clearance involves more extensive vetting, including polygraphs in some cases. Employers in defense, intelligence, and national security sectors primarily use these clearances, with Top Secret being essential for handling highly classified data.

What jobs do you need top secret clearance for?

Top Secret clearance is required for jobs involving national security, intelligence, defense contracting, and military roles that handle sensitive information. These positions often include intelligence analysts, cybersecurity specialists, military officers, and government contractors working with classified data. Candidates typically undergo thorough background checks and security assessments to obtain this clearance.
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Top Secret Clearance jobs near you
Infographic showing various Top Secret Clearance job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $134,144 per year, or $64.5 per hour.

Data Analyst - Top Secret clearance

Deloitte

Washington, DC • On-site

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Deloitte rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 93 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

47th of 154 rated financial services

Job description

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