You might not realize it, but the U.S. federal government has millions of people doing a lot of different jobs in a variety of fields. And many of those jobs require a security clearance. Once you get through the background checks and investigations that make sure you’re trustworthy, reliable, and able to handle sensitive information, there are a lot of possibilities available to you.
7 Cool U.S. Federal Government Jobs That Require a Security Clearance
If you are interested in a career that requires a security clearance, here are seven cool federal government jobs to consider.
1. Intelligence Analyst
Intelligence Analysts work for the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), the National Security Agency (NSA), or the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA). If you choose this path, you’ll analyze and interpret intelligence information to provide critical insights to national security policymakers and military commanders. You will also help to identify threats to national security and help to develop strategies to counter those threats.
2. Diplomat
As a Diplomat, you would work for the U.S. Department of State in various locations around the world. Diplomats represent the United States and promote U.S. interests in areas such as foreign policy, economic development, and humanitarian aid. You’d also help to negotiate treaties and agreements with other countries.
3. Special Agent
If you want to be a Special Agent, you will work for agencies like the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), or the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). Special Agents investigate crimes, enforce laws, and help to protect the public from threats such as terrorism, organized crime, and cybercrime.
4. Cybersecurity Specialist
Cybersecurity Specialists work for agencies lke the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) or the Department of Defense (DoD). Protecting the government’s computer networks and systems from cyber attacks and other security threats is a full-time job. Working in cybersecurity for the federal government also means you get to develop strategies to improve the security of these systems and respond to incidents when they occur.
5. Nuclear Engineer
Department of Energy (DOE) or the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) hires Nuclear Engineers. You will help to design and operate nuclear power plants, develop new nuclear technologies, and ensure that nuclear materials are used safely and securely. You will also help to prevent the proliferation of nuclear weapons.
6. Foreign Service Officer
As a Foreign Service Officer, you will work for the U.S. Department of State in various locations around the world. You will represent the United States and promote U.S. interests in areas such as foreign policy, economic development, and humanitarian aid. You will also help to negotiate treaties and agreements with other countries.
7. Linguist
Linguists tend to work for the CIA, the NSA, or the FBI. As a linguist, you’d get to use your language skills to translate and interpret foreign language materials such as documents, audio recordings, and live conversations. Linguists also help to identify and analyze foreign language threats to national security.
Cleared Careers
These are just a few examples of the many cool federal government jobs that require a security clearance. If you are interested in a career in national security, law enforcement, or international relations, consider exploring these opportunities. But there are a lot of opportunities if you want to work in national security. While obtaining a security clearance can feel like a lengthy and complex process, the rewards of serving your country in these important roles can be well worth the effort.
