Those who have served in the military and have a security clearance enjoy a distinct advantage in the Information Technology (IT) field, as this clearance serves as a gateway to enhanced career opportunities and, quite frankly, a more substantial income.
The numbers support this. The 2023 ClearanceJobs Compensation Survey reveals that IT specialists with security clearance earn an average yearly salary of $108,611. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) also predicts a 15% increase in IT job availability by 2031.
This article is a comprehensive guide for those pondering how military experience can provide an edge—particularly in specialized fields like Linux and cloud computing.
What is a Security Clearance?
For the uninitiated, security clearance is not merely a federal endorsement. It is a rigorous evaluation process overseen by the U.S. Department of Defense. This process grants access to classified information and assesses character traits such as integrity, dependability, and financial stability.
Security clearances are categorized into different tiers, each with varying implications for national security:
- Confidential:
Unauthorized leaks could jeopardize national security.
- Secret:
Unauthorized exposure could result in substantial damage.
- Top Secret:
Leaks could have catastrophic consequences.
- Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) or Special Access Programs (SAP):
This data is so sensitive that even top-secret clearance may not suffice. Special SCI Access or SAP approval is mandatory.
The Value of Security Clearance in IT
As earlier mentioned, the 2023 ClearanceJobs Compensation Survey indicates that IT professionals with security clearances earn an average annual salary of $108,611—a 7% increase from the previous year. Those with Top Secret clearance can earn an average of $116,009, thanks to an 8% salary increase.
This data underscores the immense value of security clearance in the IT industry. Employers are willing to offer a 7% salary increase to professionals with clearance, highlighting the robust demand for such qualifications.
Job security, especially in government contracts, is another significant benefit. For those loyal to their current employer for two decades or more, the average total compensation could soar to an astonishing $140,496.
Why Security Clearance Matters in Linux and Cloud Computing
In specialized fields like Linux and cloud computing, individuals are not merely data handlers but stewards of sensitive information. Military security clearance serves as a trust indicator for potential employers.
For instance, those working with Linux are responsible for implementing Security-Enhanced Linux (SELinux) policies and configuring firewalls. In cloud computing, experts are responsible for robust encryption and proper identity management. These responsibilities are not mere tasks but frontline defenses against cyber threats.
Supplementing security clearance with additional certifications, such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) or Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), can make candidates even more appealing. Given the rising demand for cloud data security, it’s unsurprising that the BLS anticipates a 33% increase in Information Security Analyst positions by 2030.
IT Careers Where Security Clearance is a Plus
In IT, specific roles are particularly well-suited for individuals with security clearances. The 2023 ClearanceJobs Compensation Survey highlights a few:
- Systems Administrator:
This role is the backbone of any IT infrastructure. It’s a lucrative field with an average salary of $115,941 and a 7% increase since 2022. Security clearance adds a layer of trust, making one an ideal candidate for managing sensitive systems.
- Cloud Engineer:
The cloud engineer focuses on cloud computing strategies, and this position has witnessed an 8% salary growth, with an average of $111,989. Clearance can be a significant asset, especially when dealing with cloud security protocols.
- Cybersecurity Analyst:
Protecting systems against unauthorized access is critical. The role offers an average salary of $124,393, a 9% increase since last year. Top Secret clearance holders can expect an 8% salary boost, pushing the average compensation to $116,009.
- Network Engineer:
Responsible for networks, this role has an average salary of $119,506, with a 13% change since 2022. Given the sensitive nature of network security, clearance is a strong advantage.
The survey also highlights that passing a polygraph can increase an employee’s annual salary by over $20,000! Moreover, having at least one career certification—common in military training—can further boost your yearly salary.
The stability offered by government contracting roles is another perk, especially for those transitioning from military roles.
As individuals ponder their next career move, these roles can serve as stepping stones to higher-level positions in the dynamic IT sector.
Real-World Examples
Let’s peek at the stories of Krysten Gennuso and Alberto Silvestriz, two individuals who have successfully navigated the tech industry through divergent paths. Yet, both underscore the importance of support and adaptability.
With her military training under her belt, Krysten picked up Linux skills with ease, shooting her to the top of the list for IT roles that require absolute confidence. What her security clearance lacks in direct impact on her current tech role, it makes up for in potential. It’s a valuable multiplier that could fast-track her entry into sensitive or high-security projects. Conversely, Alberto successfully transitioned from a decade-long military career to a rewarding IT profession, primarily due to the unwavering support from his spouse and the Linux program offered by Yellow Tail Tech. Forged in the military, his get-it-done style has been recast for the tech sector, where attention to detail is currency.
Take Krysten and Alberto, for instance – their paths to thriving IT careers show us that surrounding yourself with the right people, and a military background can become a springboard to success. Imagine being able to pinpoint the moment your career trajectory shifted into high gear. For many in tech, that moment comes when they tap into their own distinct strengths and preferences. By connecting with the right people and resources, you can take these strengths and turn them into a lasting source of professional momentum.
How to Leverage Security Clearance
Navigating the IT job market with a security clearance is like holding a VIP pass to an exclusive event. To fully capitalize on this unique advantage, a well-structured strategy is crucial. Below is a comprehensive guide designed to help individuals make the most of their security clearance in the IT sector:
- Identify Transferable Skills:
Recognize the skills acquired during military training directly applicable to the IT industry. Skills like understanding Security-Enhanced Linux (SELinux) policies or configuring firewalls are genuine game-changers that can set one apart in a competitive field.
- Network Like a Pro:
This action is vital to career growth, especially for those transitioning from the military to IT. A solid professional network can be a two-way street: it allows one to find employers who value security clearance and makes one more discoverable to them.
- Apply Strategically:
Look for roles where a security clearance is not merely a “nice-to-have” but a strict requirement. This requirement is prominent for cloud computing or cybersecurity positions, which often involve handling sensitive data or implementing complex security protocols.
It’s Time to Make a Move
In a sector perpetually at the forefront of innovation, a security clearance is a significant differentiator. It’s not merely about meeting the required qualifications; it’s about surpassing them and demonstrating a level of trustworthiness and expertise that employers find invaluable.
For those prepared to leverage this unique asset in the ever-evolving, opportunity-laden world of IT, now is the opportune moment to embark on a transformative career journey. To get started, book a 10-minute intro call with an Enrollment Advisor today!
