Which Military Jobs Require a Security Clearance?

I'm interested in pursuing a career in the military, but I'm curious about which positions require a security clearance. How does the process work, and are there specific jobs that generally require higher clearance levels than others?

In the military, many positions - particularly those in intelligence, cybersecurity, and specialized technical fields - may require a security clearance. These jobs might involve handling confidential or classified information, so the government needs to verify that you're trustworthy.

Some examples of military jobs that require a security clearance include:

1. Military Intelligence Officer: Responsibilities include collecting and analyzing strategic and tactical intelligence, mostly through military occupations.

2. Cyberspace Operations Officer: These officers coordinate defensive and offensive cyberspace operations and help protect the US from cyber threats.

3. Nuclear Engineer: Individuals in this role supervise and manage Navy nuclear propulsion plant operations, which requires a high level of security clearance due to the sensitive nature of nuclear technology.

Regarding the process, you don't apply for security clearance by yourself. Once you are in a position or you're being considered for a job that requires a clearance, the military will sponsor you. The process generally involves background checks, which may involve examining your financial records, interviewing your contacts, or even conducting a lie-detector test, among other steps.

The level of clearance necessary will depend on the nature of the role and its potential to handle classified or sensitive information. For instance, roles handling highly sensitive material will require Top Secret clearance, while those dealing with somewhat less sensitive information may only need Secret clearance.

Remember that obtaining a security clearance can be a lengthy process and involve intense scrutiny. It requires that you have a record of good conduct, particularly in financial matters, and strong character references.

Again, the specific clearance level and the job roles requiring security clearances can vary between the branches of military and even within the different job functions, so you'll want to research specific roles in your branch of interest for the most accurate information.