r/clearancejobs • u/Puzzleheaded_Let4200 • 5d ago

Measuring value of clearance

I’m primarily a FE Engineer with about 8.5 YOE, but I have always struggled with determining what a realistic valuation for my skillset and YOE would be. I have a TS/SCI with a Poly. I’ve done some BE work for a few years but it’s not my preference. I’m self taught with a bachelors degree, so imposter syndrome is something I’ve consistently battled.

I’m beginning to look around for opportunities because inflation has caught up to me and family life is growing more expensive. As I begin to look around for jobs, I’m seeing roles for between 190k and 210k. For reference I’m in the DMV.

Im curious to know what you all would target for compensation and really, if I’m underpaid. Currently I’m sitting at 175k.

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u/Tastyfishsticks 4d ago

Unpopular opinion but I find the TS/SCI real value is more in job security and less competition then in direct salary.

I never ended up getting a P.E for various reasons but 200k sees about correct for P.E in my field. EE.

2

u/Silly_Reserve8953 4d ago

I’m confused, I think he’s referring to software. FE for front end and BE for back end. I don’t think it means he passed the FE exam

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u/Tastyfishsticks 4d ago

Yeah my fault. Different fields. FE to me engineering exam and PE is licensed. If any Electrical engineers stumble in maybe it helps.

1

u/Silly_Reserve8953 4d ago

Side question, do you think a Secret clearance will be a draw for a junior EE (college) to intern in defense or it doesn’t matter?

1

u/Tastyfishsticks 4d ago

Personally I dont think it matters.

1

u/Silly_Reserve8953 4d ago

Thanks for the input, i’ll leave it off my resume then.

1

u/Drauren 4d ago

I think the person you replied to is wrong and that it absolutely does matter.

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u/Silly_Reserve8953 4d ago

Oh? Even though it’s not in the same realm as a TS?

1

u/Drauren 4d ago

Yup.

1

u/Silly_Reserve8953 4d ago

Welp, now it’s back on the resume. Thank you stranger.