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Cryptographic Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Cryptographic Engineer information

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$31K

$95.8K

$127.5K

How much do cryptographic engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for cryptographic engineer in the United States is $95,796.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,000.00 and $116,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 tools such as cryptographic libraries. Their work is essential in securing communications, financial transactions, and sensitive information across various industries.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior cryptographic engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in encryption algorithms, and often security certifications can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially in high-demand industries like finance or technology. Compensation varies based on location, company size, and individual expertise, with some earning bonuses and stock options that contribute to total compensation.

Is cryptography in high demand?

Cryptographic engineers are in high demand due to increasing cybersecurity threats and the need for secure communication, data protection, and encryption solutions. Organizations across finance, government, and technology sectors actively seek professionals skilled in cryptography, often requiring knowledge of algorithms, protocols, and security standards.

Does the CIA hire cryptographers?

Yes, the CIA employs cryptographers and cryptologic engineers to develop and analyze secure communication systems. These roles often require advanced knowledge of cryptography, security protocols, and sometimes security clearances. Candidates typically need relevant degrees and experience in cybersecurity or related fields.

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Cryptographic Engineer, and why are they important?

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.
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Infographic showing various Cryptographic Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 16% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,796 per year, or $46.1 per hour.
Crypto Systems Engineer with Security Clearance

Crypto Systems Engineer with Security Clearance

KBR

Chantilly, VA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


KBR rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

97th of 356 rated engineering


Job description

Title:
Crypto Systems Engineer Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! KBR's National Security Solutions team provides high-end engineering and advanced technology solutions to our customers in the intelligence and national security communities. In this position, your work will have a profound impact on the country's most critical role - protecting our national security. Why Join Us? * Innovative Projects: KBR's work is at the forefront of engineering, logistics, operations, science, program management, mission IT and cybersecurity solutions.
* Collaborative Environment: Be part of a dynamic team that thrives on collaboration and innovation, fostering a supportive and intellectually stimulating workplace.
* Impactful Work: Your contributions will be pivotal in designing and optimizing defense systems that ensure national security and shape the future of space defense. Position Summary: KBR National Security Solutions is seeking an intermediate Crypto Systems Engineer to serve as a technical advisor to the Government on cryptographic architecture, integration, and risk across space and ground systems. The Crypto System Engineer provides Systems Engineering and Technical Assistance (SETA) support to a dynamic System Program Office (SPO) acquiring, launching and operating the next generation of proliferated satellites by evaluating and certifying the implementation, integration, and embedment of cryptography and cryptographic-related cyber security solutions into customer-owned or controlled Space systems, through robust cryptographic security engineering and information systems security engineering disciplines. This role is not limited to certification activities. Instead, the Crypto Systems Engineer ensures that cryptographic solutions are designed in early, integrated correctly across system boundaries, and executable within the constraints of proliferated satellite production, launch, and operations. Responsibilities * Advise the Government SPO on cryptographic architecture and design decisions across space and ground systems.
* Evaluate contractor approaches to cryptographic implementation for spacecraft, ground systems, and networks.
* Support development and review of Key Management Infrastructure (KMI) concepts, plans, and interfaces.
* Assess crypto-related requirements for feasibility, interoperability, and lifecycle impact.
* Identify integration risks associated with crypto solutions in proliferated satellite environments.
* Support security certification activities by providing technical insight into system designs and interfaces.
* Coordinate with cybersecurity, information assurance, and accreditation teams to align technical and compliance perspectives.
* Participate in technical reviews and risk discussions related to secure system operation.
* Provide input to acquisition strategies to ensure crypto solutions are scalable, supportable, and have realistic schedule estimates.
* Support resolution of crypto-related issues that arise during development, integration, test, and early operations.
* Contribute to system documentation, reviews, and decision briefings for Government leadership.
* Document, develop and deliver analyses, recommendations, plans, reports, and briefings to the Government. Work Environment * Location: On-Site
* Travel Requirements: Minimal (less than 25%) travel to contractor facilities, test sites, or launch locations.
* Working Hours: Flexible. Standard Government work hour support and surge support during integration and launch phases. Required Qualifications: * Citizenship: Applicant must be a U.S. citizen.
* Clearance: Active TS/SCI clearance (with current polygraph).
* Education: Bachelor's degree in cybersecurity, computer science, computer engineering, mathematics or a related STEM technical discipline. Specific contract requirements regarding education and experience will prevail.
* Relevant Experience: Demonstrated 5+ years of experience in cryptographic engineering, COMSEC, or secure system design.
* Experience supporting DoD, Intelligence Community, or national security space programs.
* Working knowledge of cryptographic key management concepts and system integration.
* Ability to assess technical tradeoffs and communicate crypto-related risks to non-specialist stakeholders.
* Experience interfacing with Government acquisition or systems engineering organizations.
* Ability to take initiative, proactively address customer requirements with minimal supervision, and expertly define solutions for broad, abstract topics.
* Ability to work with standard business management tools and financial systems, MS Office, and project management software.
* Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain trusted client relationships.
* Ability to work in a team environment as well as independently.
* Strong oral and written communication skills with demonstrated ability to communicate technical issues clearly to customers and/or Government leadership. Desired Qualifications: * Education: Master's or Ph.D. degree in cybersecurity, computer science, computer engineering, mathematics or a related STEM technical discipline is preferred.
* Relevant Ground Experience: Demonstrated 8+ years of experience in cryptographic engineering, COMSEC, or secure system design is preferred.
* Breadth of Experience: Experience working across multiple satellite ground programs or production lines is preferred.
* Experience in initiating, planning, executing, monitoring, and controlling DoD or Intelligence Community projects or programs.
* Familiarity with JIRA and Confluence. Ready to Make a Difference? If you're excited about making a significant impact in the field of space defense and working on projects that matter, we encourage you to apply and join our team at KBR. Let's shape the future together. KBR Benefits KBR offers a selection of competitive lifestyle benefits which could include 401K plan with company match, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, AD&D, flexible spending account, disability, paid time off, or flexible work schedule. We support career advancement through professional training and development. KBR is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. Belong, Connect and Grow at KBR At KBR, we are passionate about our people and our Zero Harm culture. These inform all that we do and are at the heart of our commitment to, and ongoing journey toward being a People First company. That commitment is central to our team of team's philosophy and fosters an environment where everyone can Belong, Connect and Grow. We Deliver - Together. KBR is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

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About KBR

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At KBR, we partner with government and industry clients to provide purposeful and comprehensive solutions with an emphasis on efficiency and safety. With a full portfolio of services, proprietary technologies and expertise, our employees are ready to handle projects and missions from planning and design to sustainability and maintenance. Whether at the bottom of the ocean or in outer space, our clients trust us to deliver the impossible on a daily basis.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US

Year founded

1998