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Cryptographer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Technical Writer -- Platform Documentation Full-time We need a technical writer who can take a protocol specification written by our cryptographer and turn it into documentation that a ...

Develop genuine domain fluency so you can hold a credible conversation with a detection engineer, a cryptographer, and a compliance lead in the same week * Advise hiring managers with market data and ...

... Cryptographer at Penumbra Labs), Ben Clabby (Engineer at Optimism), André Silva (Consensus at Parity), Andrew Lewis-Pye (Researcher at LSE). We are spread around the globe but assemble at our new ...

$95K - $175K/yr

If you are a cryptographer interested in programming language theory or formal methods as well as compilers, computer architecture, or operating systems, you should apply for this position. If you ...

Senior/Staff Security Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$134K - $185K/yr

You don't need to be a cryptographer -- you need to know how to use cryptography correctly in a production system. * Enough security fluency to reason about threats to the systems you build and to ...

Technical Recruiter

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$240K - $295K/yr

Develop genuine domain fluency so you can hold a credible conversation with a detection engineer, a cryptographer, and a compliance lead in the same week * Advise hiring managers with market data and ...

Cryptographer information

What is a cryptographer?

Cryptographers are professionals who design, analyze, and implement algorithms and protocols to secure information and communications. Their work involves developing encryption techniques to protect sensitive data from unauthorized access, ensuring the privacy and integrity of digital communications. Cryptographers also analyze existing security systems to identify vulnerabilities and help organizations safeguard their information against cyber threats. They may work in various sectors, including government, finance, and technology, playing a crucial role in cybersecurity.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cryptographer?

To thrive as a Cryptographer, you need a solid background in mathematics, computer science, and cryptographic algorithms, typically supported by a relevant degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with programming languages like Python or C++, cryptographic libraries (e.g., OpenSSL), and security protocols is essential, and certifications such as CISSP or CEH can be advantageous. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and problem-solving abilities are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills are vital for designing secure systems, protecting sensitive data, and staying ahead of evolving cybersecurity threats.

What are some typical challenges cryptographers face when working on real-world security systems?

Cryptographers often encounter the challenge of balancing robust security with system performance and usability. Implementing encryption methods that are both secure and efficient requires careful consideration of computational resources, especially in environments with limited hardware capabilities. Additionally, cryptographers must stay current with evolving threats and standards, ensuring their solutions remain effective against new attack vectors. Collaboration with software engineers, IT teams, and sometimes clients is essential to integrate cryptographic solutions seamlessly while meeting practical business needs.

What is the difference between Cryptographer vs Cybersecurity Analyst?

AspectCryptographerCybersecurity Analyst
Required CredentialsDegree in Computer Science, Mathematics; certifications like CISSP, GIACDegree in Cybersecurity, IT; certifications like CompTIA Security+, CISSP
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, security firms, government agenciesCorporate IT departments, security operations centers
Industry UsageDeveloping encryption algorithms, secure communication protocolsMonitoring security threats, incident response, system protection

While both roles focus on security, cryptographers primarily develop encryption methods and algorithms, whereas cybersecurity analysts monitor and respond to security threats. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job focus within the security industry.

How do you become a cryptographer?

To become a cryptographer, typically a bachelor's degree in computer science, mathematics, or a related field is required, often followed by advanced study or specialization in cryptography. Gaining skills in programming, algorithms, and security protocols, along with certifications like Certified Encryption Specialist, can enhance job prospects. Practical experience through internships or research projects is also valuable in this field.

Is cryptography a good career?

Cryptography is a specialized field within cybersecurity that involves developing and analyzing secure communication methods. It offers high demand for skilled professionals, competitive salaries, and opportunities in government, finance, and technology sectors. Success typically requires strong mathematical skills, knowledge of programming, and relevant certifications such as CISSP or Certified Encryption Specialist.
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Who are the top companies hiring for Cryptographer jobs?

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What are popular job titles related to Cryptographer jobs?

For Cryptographer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Cryptographer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 50% In-person, and 50% Remote job distribution.

Senior Cryptographer - Post Quantum & High-Assurance Systems (TS/SCI)

Reston, VA • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Vibrint is a trusted provider of mission-critical systems and analysis that transform our customers' capacity and capability in harvesting and harnessing data. Working alongside many of the most talented professionals in public service, we work tirelessly to create and sustain new solutions and services that meet the stringent demands across a variety of customer missions.

Our people know they'll be doing work that matters at the heart of the national security mission, exploring new possibilities at the cutting edge of technology. They know they will be well-rewarded and recognized for their commitment. Our people know they will enjoy plentiful opportunities to grow, thrive, and have fun as a member of the Vibrint family. Join Vibrint, where your career is a priority, and your future is our shared goal.

We are expanding our cryptographic audit and engineering practice to support federal and critical-infrastructure customers migrating to quantum-resilient architectures.

ROLE OVERVIEW:

We are seeking a Senior Cryptographer with deep experience in modern cryptographic design, PQC evaluation, and secure-system implementation. The ideal candidate has supported or participated in national-security cryptographic programs (NSA, CYBERCOM, CIA DS&T, MITRE, APL, Sandia, Los Alamos, NIST). Work Locations in Virginia / Maryland / DC / Remote (with CONUS travel)

You will be a senior technical advisor working alongside Vibrint's cleared engineering teams and QED's cryptography leadership, advising federal customers and evaluating cryptography modernization roadmaps.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Conduct cryptographic audits for CNSA 2.0 + NIST PQC compliance
  • Evaluate algorithm implementations (Kyber, Dilithium, SPHINCS+, McEliece)
  • Assess hardware crypto modules (HSMs, TPM, FPGA, ASIC security blocks)
  • Develop crypto migration recommendations for federal clients
  • Review Type-1 / high-assurance system architectures
  • Support prototyping of QED-Vibrint proprietary PQC hardware modules (QRNG + PQC-enabled chipset)
  • Engage with NIST/IETF/PQC working groups (optional but preferred)
  • Contribute to customer briefings, white papers, and cryptographic risk assessments

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE:

  • Lattice-based crypto (Kyber, Dilithium)
  • Code-based (Classic McEliece)
  • Hash-based (SPHINCS+)
  • Hardware crypto modules, HSM, FPGA, chip-level key management

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The pay range for this position is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Our approach to crafting offers considers various factors to provide an equitable and competitive comprehensive compensation package. These considerations include, but are not limited to, contracted rates, education, certification(s), experience, specific competencies required for this position, and geographic location.

Vibrint's comprehensive compensation package includes but is not limited to: competitive salary; annual merit-based salary increase and discretionary bonus program; 401(k) plan with a company contribution; 11 paid federal holidays; 160 hours of paid time off; medical, dental, vision, life and short- & long-term disability insurance; employee assistance program; and a generous professional development allowance.