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Cryptographic Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

COMSEC Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$160K - $194K/yr

AS The COMSEC Engineer you will: * Perform technical communications security engineering and ... Develop and evaluate cryptographic implementation approaches, supports key architecture and ...

COMSEC Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$160K - $194K/yr

Develop and evaluate cryptographic implementation approaches, supports key architecture and ... By maintaining disciplined engineering documentation, resolving integration issues, and supporting ...

We are seeking a Network Engineer to support a DoD Cyber Security project, with a focus on integrating networking and cryptographic systems. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience setting ...

Showing results 41-60

Cryptographic Engineer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$35K

$108.2K

$144K

How much do cryptographic engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for cryptographic engineer in Washington, DC is $108,173.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,500.00 and $131,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Cryptographic Engineer, you need a deep understanding of mathematics, cryptographic algorithms, and computer science, typically supported by a relevant degree in computer science, mathematics, or a related field. Familiarity with cryptographic libraries, security protocols, programming languages like C/C++ or Python, and certifications such as CISSP or CEH are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective problem-solving skills set standout professionals apart in this role. These competencies are essential to design, implement, and maintain secure systems that protect sensitive data and ensure organizational trust.

What are some common challenges faced by cryptographic engineers when implementing new encryption protocols in a production environment?

Cryptographic Engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring compatibility with existing systems, maintaining performance while integrating robust security measures, and staying ahead of evolving cyber threats. Implementing new protocols may also require extensive testing to avoid vulnerabilities and ensure compliance with industry standards. Effective collaboration with software developers and IT teams is crucial to ensure seamless deployment and minimize potential disruptions to business operations.

What does a cryptographic engineer do?

A cryptographic engineer designs, develops, and implements encryption algorithms and security protocols to protect data confidentiality and integrity. They analyze cryptographic systems, stay updated on security vulnerabilities, and often work with programming languages like C or Python, as well as cryptography tools and standards. Their work is essential in securing communications, financial transactions, and sensitive information across various industries.

What are popular job titles related to Cryptographic Engineer jobs in Washington, DC?

For Cryptographic Engineer jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cryptographic Engineer jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Cryptographic Engineer jobs in Washington, DC are:

Infographic showing various Cryptographic Engineer job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,173 per year, or $52 per hour.

Senior Software Engineer/Systems Engineer with Security Clearance

Cornerstone Defense

Annapolis, MD • On-site

$121K - $159K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Title: Senior Software Engineer/Systems Engineer Location: Annapolis Junction Compensation Range: $215 - 235k *Clearance: *Active TS/SCI w/ Polygraph needed to apply * Company Overview: Cornerstone Defense is the Employer of Choice within the Intelligence, Defense, and Space communities of the U.S. Government. Realizing early on that our most prized assets are our employees, we continually focus our attention on improving the overall work/life experience they have supporting the mission. Our Team is pushed every day to use their industry leading knowledge to provide end-to-end solutions to combat our nation's toughest and most secure problems. If you are looking for a place to not only be professionally challenged, but encouraged and supported by a company that cares, don't look any further than Cornerstone Defense. Benefits Overview: Cornerstone Defense offers a very comprehensive benefits package including, but not limited to: Medical, Dental and Vision Plans * Generous PTO Policy * 401(k) * HSA and FSA options * Life and Disability Insurance * Tuition Reimbursement and Training * Perks at Work Discount Program * Referral Program * Leads Generation Program * CollegeAmerica 529 * Fitness Reimbursement Program * Travel Assistance * Norton Lifelock Benefit Solutions * Life Planning Financial & Legal Services * Description: The Senior Software Engineer / System Engineer plays a key role in a multi-year, mission-focused software development effort aimed at productizing a critical solution suite for broader DoD deployment. This position requires extensive experience in modern software engineering, system design, cryptographic technologies, and Agile development. The engineer will be responsible for leading technical changes, removing customer-specific dependencies, abstracting environment-specific configurations, and helping architect flexible interfaces to support authorization workflows and key management operations across diverse environments. The work impacts numerous components including clients, Portals, Proxy services, and OpenBao-based key management services. This role requires strong leadership, independent execution, and collaboration across matrixed and virtual teams. Required Skills: * 12+ years of professional experience * BS in Computer Science or related field (or 8+ years equivalent work experience) * Ability to communicate effectively and build rapport with clients and team members Preferred Skills: * Experience leading development of encryption libraries and key management services * Ability to establish, enforce, and apply best practices across solution design and implementation * Experience providing leadership for daily project execution and progress * Participation in project planning and status communication Desired Skills: * 8+ years Java development on Linux and Windows platforms, or 8+ years experience with C/C++ * Proficiency in at least one additional high-level language (Python, Go, or Rust preferred) * 8+ years experience with modern software development management practices * Deep understanding of Agile methodology * 5+ years cryptographic engineering experience, including key management * 5+ years experience with REST APIs * 2+ years cloud platform experience (tools, administration, operations) * 5+ years Docker and Kubernetes experience * Strong analytical troubleshooting and performance evaluation skills * Effective team collaboration skills and strong communication habits * Ability to operate within matrixed and virtual team structures * Ability to work independently, multi-task, and take ownership across project components * Ability to work under pressure while meeting tight deadlines or adapting to shifting requirements