Understanding Security Clearance Levels for Cybersecurity

Security clearances are background checks commonly needed for Federal job positions and dealing with national security information. This certification process is used to ensure the confidentiality of classified documents.

At CIAT, we highly recommend that students invest additional time learning more about obtaining a clearance. Students studying for their degree in:

• Software Development
• Cybersecurity
• Data Analytics

Should be aware of Federal government and Federal contracting employment requirements regarding qualifying for clearance as a condition of employment.

Many defense contractors require employees to bring various clearance levels to work within their organization. Employers will often recruit former military personnel holding government security clearances.

This article will discuss the background of the various clearance levels and getting clearance for and with the Federal government.

How Important is Security Clearance?

The U.S. government implements security clearance to protect the country, its citizens, and its allies by restricting access to sensitive information.

• A security clearance is required to gain access to specific classified information. 
• To get a security clearance, a Federal government agency or contractor must employ you, and your role must deem it necessary.
• After securing a role, you may get clearance for the classified material.
• A security clearance is an essential designation within the U.S. National Security System, as it limits access to sensitive information to protect the country and its citizens.

Why Would an Applicant Be Declined for a Clearance?

The Federal government may refuse an applicant a security clearance because of the results of an investigation, which may include considerations such as honesty, openness, and completion of forms.

• The government investigates the applicant for clearance to ensure that granting or maintaining eligibility for a security clearance aligns with the nation’s security interests.
• A security clearance background investigation typically covers personal characteristics, biases, and behavior. 
• A sign of issues in these areas may require additional research and result in a clearance denial.

What are the Various Levels of Security Clearances?

Security clearances have varying levels, each of which requires a background check. Top Secret clearance is the most intensive effort, requiring background checks, polygraphs, and interviews. 

Confidential Clearance

Confidentiality is typically the lowest level of security clearance. It provides access to information that could cause damage to national security if disclosed without authorization. This level must be renewed every 15 years.

Secret Clearance

Secret clearance allows access to information that must not be shared without authorized approval. This level of clearance is more common and must be renewed every ten years. Many entry-level cybersecurity positions in the federal government may require Secret clearance.

Top Secret

Top Secret clearance provides access to information critical to national security. This is the highest standard level of clearance and must be renewed every five years. Many advanced cybersecurity roles require Top Secret clearance, especially those dealing with sensitive systems or intelligence.

Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI)

While not a separate clearance level, SCI is often an additional designation for those with top-secret clearance. It allows access to intelligence information and material that requires handling exclusively within formal access control systems.

Clearance Investigation Tiers

The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) uses a tiered system for security clearance investigations:

• Tier 1: Low Risk, Non-Sensitive positions (using Form SF85)
• Tier 2: Moderate Risk Public Trust positions (using Form SF85P)
• Tier 3: Non-Critical Sensitive National Security positions (using Form SF86)
• Tier 4: High-Risk Public Trust positions (using Form SF85P)
• Tier 5: Critical Sensitive and Special Sensitive National Security positions, including Top Secret and SCI access (using Form SF86)

For cybersecurity professionals, positions often fall into Tiers 3, 4, or 5, depending on the sensitivity of the information they’ll be handling.

Agencies Requiring High-Level Clearances

Cybersecurity professionals seeking positions with agencies such as the FBI, CIA, NSA, DIA, NRO, and Department of Homeland Security should expect to need Top Secret clearance or higher.

The Clearance Process

Obtaining a security clearance involves several steps:

1. Job offer or sponsorship from a government agency or contractor
2. Completion of the appropriate security questionnaire (e-QIP) on the OPM website
3. Background investigations conducted by agencies like the Department of Defense or Office of the Director of National Intelligence
4. Adjudication of the investigation results

It’s worth noting that the required clearance level doesn’t necessarily correlate with a specific job title. Instead, it depends on the nature of the information you’ll be accessing in your role.

Is a Security Clearance Required for Cyber Security Opportunities?

In the field of cybersecurity, security clearances are critical. Cybersecurity professionals often deal with sensitive information related to national security, critical infrastructure, and potential threats. The appropriate clearance level ensures that these professionals can access the information necessary to protect against cyber threats, hostile intelligence services, and other security risks.

Obtaining and maintaining the appropriate security clearance is crucial for those pursuing a career in federal cybersecurity. It allows you to perform your job effectively and opens up more career opportunities within government agencies and federal contractors.

Knowledge for Today and in the Future

Security clearances are necessary for protecting against threats originating with hostile intelligence services or cyber security threats, as well as terrorists and other threats. This vetting determines who may have access to Government documents or personal information.

Remember, the path to a high-level cybersecurity position in the federal government starts with understanding and preparing for the security clearance process. Take action now to position yourself for success in this critical and rewarding field. Your role in protecting our nation’s digital assets awaits!