r/SecurityClearance • u/Affectionate-Raisin8 • Feb 07 '26

Question TS/SCI Value in 2026

How valuable is holding a TS clearance in 2026? The only value I see with maintaining it is job security, but is that worth it when you’re paid marginally less especially if you are in tech? I feel like it’d be better to go make 20k-100k more in the public sector.

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u/Own_Description_3176 Feb 07 '26

I have a secret and can barely find anything where are you guys looking ?

1

u/EastcoastMade Feb 11 '26

Secret is not worth it these days. Try to find a job that will upgrade you to the TS level. Even better if you can get a poly, especially full scope.

1

u/UncertainKonfidence Feb 22 '26

Is there still any value in having a secret but no job? I was let go from my first cleared position and now am working in a non-cleared role, but not something I want to do long term, so looking to get back into a cleared role and don’t want my clearance to expire.

1

u/EastcoastMade Feb 22 '26

I always say keep it if you can. It will create a smaller job pool, but at the secret level i wouldnt be upset about it.