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Computer Network Defense Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Sigma Defense

1700 - Network Engineer III

San Diego, CA · On-site

$120K - $130K/yr

Sigma Defense is seeking a Network Engineer III to support our team in San Diego, CA. The MQ-25 and ... CCNA Computer Programs/Software: * Microsoft Office Suite Personnel Clearance Level: * Candidate ...

Sigma Defense

1700 - Network Engineer III

San Diego, CA · On-site

$120K - $130K/yr

Sigma Defense is seeking a Network Engineer III to support our team in San Diego, CA. The MQ-25 and ... CCNA Computer Programs/Software: * Microsoft Office Suite Personnel Clearance Level: * Candidate ...

Sigma Defense

1699 - Network Engineer IV

San Diego, CA

$125K - $145K/yr

Sigma Defense is seeking a Network Engineer IV to support our team in San Diego, CA. The Network ... CCNA/CCNP Computer Programs/Software: * Linux (RHEL) * Windows Server * Cisco IOS/NX-OS * Juniper ...

Sigma Defense

1699 - Network Engineer IV

San Diego, CA · On-site

$125K - $145K/yr

Sigma Defense is seeking a Network Engineer IV to support our team in San Diego, CA. The Network ... CCNA/CCNP Computer Programs/Software: * Linux (RHEL) * Windows Server * Cisco IOS/NX-OS * Juniper ...

Sigma Defense

1699 - Network Engineer IV

San Diego, CA · On-site

$125K - $145K/yr

Sigma Defense is seeking a Network Engineer IV to support our team in San Diego, CA. The Network ... CCNA/CCNP Computer Programs/Software: * Linux (RHEL) * Windows Server * Cisco IOS/NX-OS * Juniper ...

Neros Technologies

Network Operations Engineer

Torrance, CA · On-site

$13K - $190K/yr

Who we are Neros is a defense technology company rebuilding America's drone industrial base. We ... Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field with relevant Cisco ...

Neros Technologies

Network Operations Engineer

Torrance, CA · On-site

$13K - $190K/yr

Who we are Neros is a defense technology company rebuilding America's drone industrial base. We ... Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field with relevant Cisco ...

Accelint

Network Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

Lyntris is a defense technology company that connects sensing to action across the connected ... Required Qualifications * Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology ...

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All JobsComputer Network Defense JobsComputer Network Defense Jobs in California

Computer Network Defense information

See California salary details

$31

$48

$61

How much do computer network defense jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for computer network defense in California is $48.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36.30 and $61.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Computer Network Defense roles?

Professionals in Computer Network Defense often face the challenge of keeping up with rapidly evolving cyber threats and attack techniques. The role requires continuous learning and real-time problem-solving as new vulnerabilities and exploits emerge frequently. Team members must also balance proactive threat hunting with responding to immediate incidents, often collaborating closely with IT, security operations, and management to ensure a resilient defense posture. Adaptability, strong communication, and an analytical mindset are key to thriving in this dynamic environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Computer Network Defense, and why are they important?

To excel in Computer Network Defense, professionals need a strong understanding of network protocols, cybersecurity principles, and threat analysis, often supported by a degree in information security or computer science. Familiarity with intrusion detection systems (IDS), firewalls, SIEM platforms, and certifications such as CompTIA Security+ or CISSP are commonly required. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are valuable soft skills for this role. These competencies are crucial for proactively identifying vulnerabilities, responding to incidents, and safeguarding organizational networks from evolving cyber threats.

What is the difference between Computer Network Defense vs Cybersecurity Analyst?

AspectComputer Network DefenseCybersecurity Analyst
CertificationsCompTIA Security+, CISSP, CEHCompTIA Security+, CISSP, CEH
Work EnvironmentFocus on protecting network infrastructure, monitoring network traffic, and responding to network threatsBroader security analysis, including system vulnerabilities, incident response, and security policies
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in government, military, and large enterprise networksAcross various industries including finance, healthcare, and technology

Computer Network Defense and Cybersecurity Analyst roles share similar certifications and work environments, but Network Defense specializes in protecting network infrastructure specifically, while Cybersecurity Analysts handle a broader range of security tasks across systems and applications.

What is Computer Network Defense?

Computer Network Defense (CND) refers to the strategies, technologies, and processes used to protect computer networks and systems from unauthorized access, cyberattacks, and other security threats. CND professionals monitor network traffic, detect and respond to security incidents, and implement measures to prevent future attacks. Their work is critical for maintaining the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information systems, especially in organizations that handle sensitive data. CND also involves regular vulnerability assessments, security policy enforcement, and incident response planning.
What are popular job titles related to Computer Network Defense jobs in California? For Computer Network Defense jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Computer Network Defense jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Computer Network Defense jobs in California are:
Computer Network Defense jobs near you
Infographic showing various Computer Network Defense job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,039 per year, or $48.1 per hour.
1700 - Network Engineer III

1700 - Network Engineer III

Sigma Defense

San Diego, CA • On-site

$120K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Sigma Defense is seeking a Network Engineer III to support our team in San Diego, CA.
The MQ-25 and Unmanned Carrier Aviation (UCA) Mission Control System (UMCS) programs of record (POR) are managed by the UCA Program Office (PMA-268) with the responsibility to coordinate all System-of-Systems (SoS) development and integration. The MQ-25A is designed as an unmanned carrier launched air vehicle with a primary mission of providing air to air refueling of other carrier launched aircraft and a secondary mission of supplying intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance data to ship and shore sites. SOLUTE, a Sigma Defense Company is seeking a self-directed and highly motivated individual to join our team as a Network Engineer to support testing of communications between Surrogate MQ-25 Air Vehicle and Ground Control Station. Testing will include both Narrowband and Wideband satellite and line-of-site links in support of C4I Operational Network Evaluation test events. Additional responsibilities will include writing Test Plans, Test Procedures, Test Reports and lab configuration & testing in support of various test events.
Familiarity with US Navy's afloat and ashore Automated Digital Network System (ADNS) architecture extremely helpful. Additional familiarity with provisioning and operation of any of the following links and terminals are helpful, but not required: Wideband links Starlink/Starshield, Wideband Global SATCOM (WGS), Network Tactical Common Data Link (NTCDL) and CBSP Satellite Services Contract (CSSC); and Narrowband links Mobile User Objective System (MUOS -both DMR and ARC-210) and Ultra-High Frequency (UHF) Line of Site.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled: Sigma Defense Systems is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.
Requirements
  • 4+ years of experience in DoD or other Government Unclassified and Classified Systems/Networks, Cisco Routing and Switching, Network Engineering, Network Testing, and Implementation planning.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in:
    • Layer 2 switching and layer 3 routing.
    • Multicast, BGP, DMVPN, IPSec, EIGRP, OSPF, VRRP, STP, VTP, ACLs, and Layer 3 tunnels.
    • Operating Linux systems and configuring/troubleshooting Linux network-related tasks.
    • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
    • Ability to work with network-related hardware and software.
    • Experience with network automation tools (Ansible, Python).
  • Cisco CCNA/CCNP certification is preferred.
  • Network Engineering experience with ADNS, CANES, and/or CaaS preferred.
  • IAT Level II certification (or ability to obtain within 6 months)
  • Must be a U.S. citizen.

Candidate Differentiators:
  • CCNP
  • CCIE
  • CCNE

Mandatory Certifications:
  • DoD 8570 IAT Level II (Security +)
  • CCNA

Computer Programs/Software:
  • Microsoft Office Suite

Personnel Clearance Level:
  • Candidate must possess or have the ability to obtain an active Secret security clearance or higher.
  • Clearance may be sponsored for the right candidate.
  • Candidate must hold an active Secret clearance to begin work.

Education Requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Network Engineering or related field of study.

Essential Job Duties (not all-inclusive):
  • Participate in network integration, testing, and troubleshooting, including loading configurations, troubleshooting devices, and performing Wireshark traffic analysis.
  • Design, develop, optimize, and test network systems in a multi-vendor environment, including routers, switches, firewalls, and other devices.
  • Perform hardware and software testing, analysis, and selection, and apply DISA STIGs and generate RMF artifacts.
  • Develop and maintain system documentation and generate network traffic with tools like Spirent traffic generators.
  • Configure and troubleshoot network devices, including Inline Network Encryptors (INEs) and Linux IP Tables.
  • Provide operational support, including performing equipment operational tests, collecting and analyzing test data, and identifying/reporting issues.

Salary Range: $120,000 - $130,000 annually.
Benefits
  • Dental and Vision Insurance
  • Medical Insurance to Include HSA, FSA, and DFSA Plans
  • Life and AD&D coverage
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • 401(k) Plan with Company Matching Contributions
  • 160 Hours of Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • 12 (Floating) Holidays
  • Educational Assistance
  • Highly Competitive Salary

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