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Associate Security Engineer Jobs in Grand Rapids, MI

... security policies, and collaborating with business stakeholders to translate their data ... Associate] is a plus - Designing and implementing thorough data architecture strategies ...

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Associate Security Engineer information

See Grand Rapids, MI salary details

$39.9K

$79.4K

$126.8K

How much do associate security engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate security engineer in Grand Rapids, MI is $79,365.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,900.00 and $91,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an associate security engineer?

Associate Security Engineers are entry-level professionals who help protect an organization’s computer systems and networks from security threats. They typically assist in monitoring network activity, investigating security incidents, and implementing basic security measures under the supervision of senior staff. Their responsibilities may also include maintaining firewalls, performing vulnerability assessments, and ensuring compliance with security policies. This role serves as a foundational position for those looking to advance in the cybersecurity field.

What are some common challenges associate security engineers face when transitioning from academic settings to professional environments?

Associate Security Engineers often find that the pace and complexity of professional environments differ significantly from academic settings. Real-world security systems involve legacy technologies, rapidly evolving threats, and compliance requirements that may not be covered in coursework. Collaborating across teams, responding to incidents under pressure, and balancing security best practices with business needs can be challenging at first. However, this environment offers excellent hands-on learning opportunities and mentorship from experienced colleagues to help bridge the gap.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate security engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Security Engineer, you need a solid understanding of information security principles, networking, and risk assessment, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with security tools such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems (IDS), SIEM platforms, and relevant certifications like CompTIA Security+ or CEH is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication make candidates stand out in this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial for identifying vulnerabilities, mitigating threats, and collaborating with teams to maintain robust organizational security.

What is the difference between Associate Security Engineer vs Security Analyst?

AspectAssociate Security EngineerSecurity Analyst
Required CertificationsCompTIA Security+, Cisco CCNA Security, or equivalentCompTIA Security+, GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC), or similar
Work EnvironmentHands-on technical roles involving system and network security implementationMonitoring, analyzing security data, and incident response
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, cybersecurity firms, IT departmentsFinancial institutions, government agencies, large enterprises
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The Associate Security Engineer typically focuses on implementing and maintaining security systems, requiring technical certifications and hands-on work. In contrast, Security Analysts primarily monitor security events, analyze threats, and respond to incidents. Both roles are essential in cybersecurity teams but differ in daily responsibilities and focus areas.

What's the average salary of an associate security engineer?

The average salary for an associate security engineer typically ranges from $60,000 to $85,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications such as CompTIA Security+ or CISSP. Entry-level roles may start lower, while those with specialized skills or in high-demand areas can earn more.

What are the most commonly searched types of Security Engineer jobs in Grand Rapids, MI?

The most popular types of Security Engineer jobs in Grand Rapids, MI are:

What are popular job titles related to Associate Security Engineer jobs in Grand Rapids, MI?

For Associate Security Engineer jobs in Grand Rapids, MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Associate Security Engineer jobs in Grand Rapids, MI look for?

The top searched job categories for Associate Security Engineer jobs in Grand Rapids, MI are:

What cities near Grand Rapids, MI are hiring for Associate Security Engineer jobs?

Cities near Grand Rapids, MI with the most Associate Security Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Security Engineer job openings in Grand Rapids, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,164 per year, or $36.6 per hour.

IT Security Engineer

Auto Owners Insurance Company

Grand Rapids, MI • Hybrid

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Auto-Owners Insurance rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

23rd of 315 rated insurance


Job description

A career at Auto-Owners is challenging and rewarding. Our group of caring associates create financial security by helping individuals and businesses make a new start when a loss occurs.

Job Description

We offer a merit-based work-from-home program based on job responsibilities. After initial training in-person, this specific role could have the flexibility to work from home up to 3 days per week.

Please note that we are not currently hiring fully remote positions. All candidates must have the ability to work in one of our tech offices from time to time. Our tech offices for this role are in Lansing and Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Auto-Owners Insurance, a top-rated insurance carrier, is seeking a motivated individual to join our IT Division as an IT Security Engineer. This position is part of the IT Security department and is responsible for reducing IT Security risk and responding to incidents for the company and its affiliates. The position requires the person to:

  • Cultivate an environment of IT security compliance by enforcing corporate policies and facilitating corporate practices in an effort to uphold confidentiality, integrity, and availability of our infrastructure
  • Comprehend, write, and maintain department procedures and documentation
  • Administer, upgrade, troubleshoot security products/applications
  • Research and recommend mitigation controls for cybersecurity risks in accordance with the Company's and its affiliates' policies and industry best practices
  • Monitor and advise on IT security issues related to the Company's and its affiliates' systems to ensure internal security controls are appropriate and operating as intended

Desired Skills and Experience

  • A fouryear college degree in Information Security, Information Security and Assurance, Information Systems, Information Technology, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a related field is preferred. Candidates without a fouryear degree, but with several years of relevant experience, may also be considered.
  • Exhibit good initiative and motivation
  • Ability to effectively share the knowledge of current cybersecurity threats, and their relevancy to the Company and its affiliates, with other team members
  • Ability to learn about several of the following areas: security engineering, server security, network security, cloud security, authentication methods, encryption protocols, and application security
  • Ability to learn and effectively use the security tools and security development techniques required by the job
  • Ability to work with details, analyze information, logically solve problems, and communicate effectively
  • Ability to document concepts and skills learned for later reference
  • Ability to actively participate in meetings

Benefits

Auto-Owners offers a wide range of career opportunities, and we are seeking talent that will help us continue our long tradition of success. We offer a friendly work environment, structured training program, employee mentoring and an excellent compensation/benefits package. Along with a competitive base salary, matched 401(k), fully-funded pension plan (once vested), and bonus programs, Auto-Owners also provides generous paid time off including holidays, vacation days, personal time, and sick leave. If you're looking to do rewarding work alongside great people, Auto-Owners is the place for you!

Equal Employment Opportunity

Auto-Owners Insurance is an equal opportunity employer. The Company hires, transfers, and promotes on the basis of ability, without consideration of disability, age, sex, race, color, religion, height, weight, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or national origin, or any factor contrary to federal, state or local law.

*Please note that the ability to work in the U.S. without current or future sponsorship is a requirement.

#IN-DNI #LI-Hybrid #LI-DNP

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