Space Coast Defense Jobs
Guide

Security Clearance Guide

Most defense and aerospace jobs in Melbourne, Palm Bay, Cape Canaveral, and across the Space Coast require or prefer a security clearance. This guide covers the clearance levels, the application process, and what to expect — plus current job counts for each level.

Clearance Levels

Public Trust
A baseline suitability determination for positions requiring access to federal facilities or sensitive (but not classified) information. Common for IT and support roles at defense agencies.
2–6 monthsValid: 5 years (reinvestigation)
Secret
Required for access to information that could cause serious damage to national security if disclosed. The most commonly held clearance level across the defense industry.
3–6 monthsValid: 10 years
Top Secret
Required for access to information that could cause exceptionally grave damage to national security. Involves a more thorough Single Scope Background Investigation (SSBI).
6–12 monthsValid: 5 years (reinvestigation)
TS/SCI
Top Secret with Sensitive Compartmented Information access. The highest standard clearance, required for intelligence programs and the most sensitive defense work. Requires additional adjudication beyond Top Secret.
6–18 monthsValid: 5 years (reinvestigation + polygraph may be required)

How to Get a Security Clearance

1. Get Sponsored by an Employer

You cannot apply for a clearance on your own. A defense contractor or government agency must sponsor you, typically after extending a job offer contingent on clearance approval. Many Space Coast employers actively hire candidates who need clearance processing.

2. Complete the SF-86 (e-QIP)

The Standard Form 86 is the backbone of the clearance process. It's an extensive questionnaire covering your personal history: residences, employment, education, foreign contacts, financial records, legal history, and references for the past 7–10 years. Budget several days to complete it accurately.

3. Background Investigation

DCSA (Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency) conducts the investigation. For Secret clearances, this is primarily records checks. For Top Secret and TS/SCI, expect in-person interviews with your references and possibly a subject interview. The depth of investigation scales with the clearance level.

4. Adjudication

An adjudicator reviews the investigation results and makes a clearance determination based on the 13 adjudicative guidelines (allegiance, foreign influence, financial considerations, etc.). The "whole person" concept means no single factor is automatically disqualifying — context matters.

5. Clearance Granted

Once granted, your clearance is held in DISS (Defense Information System for Security) and can be verified by any cleared employer. You'll need to report life changes (foreign travel, financial issues, arrests) and undergo periodic reinvestigation to maintain it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a security clearance on my own?

No. Security clearances are sponsored by an employer. You must have a job offer or be employed by a company that needs you to have a clearance. The company initiates the clearance process with the government.

Will past marijuana use disqualify me?

Not necessarily. The government evaluates the whole person, including how recent the use was, frequency, and whether you're honest about it on the SF-86. Recent use (within the last year) is more concerning. Honesty is critical — lying on the SF-86 is a federal crime and will disqualify you.

Does bad credit affect my clearance eligibility?

Financial issues are one of the most common reasons for clearance denial. Significant debt, bankruptcies, or financial irresponsibility can raise concerns. However, investigators look at the context — student loans with consistent payments are very different from unexplained spending. Having a plan to address financial issues works in your favor.

Do I need to be a U.S. citizen?

For Secret and above, yes — U.S. citizenship is required. Some Public Trust positions may be available to lawful permanent residents, depending on the agency. Dual citizenship can complicate the process but doesn't automatically disqualify you.

What happens during the background investigation?

Investigators verify your SF-86 information, check criminal records, credit history, and employment records. For Top Secret and above, they conduct in-person interviews with your references, neighbors, coworkers, and sometimes you. They're looking for honesty and reliability, not perfection.

How long does it take to get a clearance?

Timelines vary significantly. Public Trust typically takes 2–6 months, Secret 3–6 months, and Top Secret 6–18 months. TS/SCI with polygraph can take over a year. Many defense employers will start you on unclassified work while your clearance processes.

Can I transfer my clearance to a new employer?

Yes, active clearances can be transferred between employers through a process called a crossover. Your new employer sponsors the transfer, and it typically takes 1–4 weeks. An inactive clearance can be reinstated within 24 months without a full reinvestigation.

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