Jobs That Require The ClearancePersons in jobs requiring secret security clearance work with information that, if leaked, would present a risk to national security. There is intensive investigation into the background of persons applying for secret security clearance. This requires a background check along with a credit check and the signing of an agreement stating that the applicant will not disclose sensitive information. Jobs that require this certification are often found in government positions or as private contractors working with the government.A Variety of Jobs Are AvailableThere are a wide variety of job positions for which secret level clearance is needed. These range from information technology, administrative, and analyst jobs with government and private organizations to careers in state and local law enforcement. There are even jobs available in federal agencies such as Homeland Security and the Central Intelligence Agency. People in these jobs will occasionally to frequently encounter information that must not be divulged in the interest of national security.Range of SalaryThere is an estimated initial salary increase of about $5-15,000 to be expected with secret security clearance. Along with this, the salary for many positions that require it begins around $60-70,000.Clearance RequirementsThe background check required for secret security clearance jobs includes a criminal record check, a credit check, and analysis for foreign activities. The criminal record check can disqualify individuals because of felonies or misdemeanors. Credit checks commonly disqualify applicants because of unmet financial obligations, but bankruptcies are evaluated individually. Financial difficulties can represent a threat to national security if a person with money problems and access to sensitive information is offered money in exchange for secrets. Having many past residences, family members in other countries, and having many foreign activities can extend the investigation process, which can take anywhere from a few months to a year to complete. Secret security clearance also requires re-evaluation every 10 years to determine continued eligibility.ConclusionJobs requiring secret security clearance can lead to satisfying careers with excellent pay, and the job outlook is excellent with the continued expansion of national security efforts.