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Cryptography Researcher Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

OpenAI

Researcher, Safety & Privacy

San Francisco, CA · On-site

OpenAI is an AI research and deployment company dedicated to ensuring that general-purpose ... Cryptography, Security, Machine Learning, or related fields. • Have the ability to translate ...

OpenAI

Researcher, Safety & Privacy

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$295K - $445K/yr

Hold a PhD or equivalent experience in Computer Science, Cryptography, Security, Machine Learning ... AI research and deployment company dedicated to ensuring that general-purpose artificial ...

De Circle

UI/UX Engineer - Semiotic.ai

San Francisco, CA · On-site +1

$110K - $137K/yr

Semiotic Labs is an AI research and development company working at the intersection of machine learning, cryptography, and decentralized protocols. We are best known for our contributions to The ...

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Cryptography Researcher information

See California salary details

$29.6K

$111.6K

$162.3K

How much do cryptography researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for cryptography researcher in California is $111,621.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,100.00 and $152,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a cryptography researcher?

To become a cryptography researcher, typically a candidate needs a strong background in mathematics, computer science, or related fields, often holding at least a master's degree or Ph.D. in these areas. Gaining expertise in cryptographic algorithms, security protocols, and programming languages like Python or C is essential, along with experience in research environments or academic publishing. Familiarity with tools such as cryptographic libraries and a solid understanding of security principles are also important for success in this role.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Cryptography Researcher?

As a Cryptography Researcher, your daily tasks typically include designing and analyzing cryptographic algorithms, conducting security assessments, and collaborating with software engineers to integrate cryptographic protocols into real-world applications. You may also be involved in reviewing academic papers, publishing research, and staying up to date with the latest advancements in the field. Collaboration is common, as researchers often work in teams to solve complex security problems and participate in knowledge sharing sessions. The role requires balancing independent research with teamwork, making ongoing communication and adaptability important parts of your workday.

Is a PhD in cryptography worth it?

A PhD in cryptography can enhance a cryptography researcher's expertise and open opportunities in academia, government, and industry research roles. However, it requires significant time and effort, and many positions also value practical experience and skills in programming, mathematics, and security protocols.

How much does a CIA cryptographer make?

CIA cryptographers are federal employees who typically earn salaries based on the General Schedule (GS) pay scale, with salaries ranging from approximately $60,000 to over $150,000 annually depending on experience, education, and security clearance level. Advanced skills in cryptography, security clearances, and specialized training can lead to higher compensation within government agencies.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

High-paying roles for cryptography researchers or related cybersecurity experts can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially in senior positions, leadership roles, or within large technology and finance companies. Achieving this level often requires advanced degrees, specialized skills in cryptography, security clearances, and extensive industry experience. Such compensation may include base salary, bonuses, and stock options.

What is a Cryptography Researcher job?

A Cryptography Researcher studies and develops encryption methods, cryptographic protocols, and security algorithms to protect data and communications. They analyze vulnerabilities, improve existing cryptographic techniques, and contribute to advancements in cybersecurity. Their work is essential for secure communications, digital privacy, and protecting sensitive information across various industries, including finance, government, and technology.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Cryptography Researcher position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cryptography Researcher, a strong background in mathematics, computer science, and cryptographic theory is essential, typically supported by an advanced degree in a related field. Familiarity with cryptographic libraries, formal verification tools, programming languages like Python or C/C++, and relevant certifications such as CISSP or CEH can be beneficial. Analytical thinking, curiosity, and the ability to communicate complex concepts clearly are valuable soft skills in this field. These skills enable researchers to develop, analyze, and communicate robust cryptographic solutions that address emerging security challenges.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cryptography Researcher jobs in California? The most popular types of Cryptography Researcher jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Cryptography Researcher jobs in California? For Cryptography Researcher jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cryptography Researcher jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Cryptography Researcher jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Cryptography Researcher jobs? Cities in California with the most Cryptography Researcher job openings:
Cryptography Researcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cryptography Researcher job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 72% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,621 per year, or $53.7 per hour.
Cryptography Research Scientist, FHE

Cryptography Research Scientist, FHE

LG Electronics

Santa Clara, CA • Hybrid

Other

Posted 6 days ago

LG Electronics rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

113th of 156 rated electronics manufacturers

Job description

About the Team - LG's Emerging Technology Lab

LG's Emerging Technology Lab (ETL) is the catalyst for technological innovation within LG's CTO organization. Located in the Silicon Valley and New Jersey, we drive excellence across CTO organizations and business units by pioneering in select emerging technology areas. As the Center of Excellence (CoE), we define and shape key technology domains, setting strategic directions that foster impactful internal and external partnerships to deliver measurable business value.

 

Position Overview

We are seeking a highly motivated Cryptography Research Engineer / Scientist to join our Advanced Security team located in Santa Clara, CA. This can be a hybrid position.

The Cryptography Research Scientist will be working on next-generation cryptographic technologies, with a primary focus on Fully Homomorphic Encryption (FHE) and additional involvement in Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC). This position is intended for early-career researchers, typically candidates with a PhD and 0-2 years of relevant research or industry experience.

This role is centered on the research, optimization, implementation, and deployment of privacy-enhancing technologies for real-world applications. The ideal candidate will have strong mathematical foundations in modern cryptography, hands-on software development skills, and a passion for translating advanced cryptographic concepts into practical systems and Proof-of-Concept (PoC) demonstrations.

The candidate will work on cutting-edge problems involving encrypted computation, privacy-preserving AI/analytics, and quantum-safe cryptographic systems.

Key Responsibilities

  • Conduct advanced research and development in Fully Homomorphic Encryption (FHE) and related privacy-enhancing technologies.
  • Design, optimize, and implement FHE algorithms and pipelines for practical applications and deployment scenarios.
  • Develop high-performance implementations for specialized use cases, including:
    • privacy-preserving AI/ML inference,
    • secure analytics and recommendation systems,
    • confidential cloud computation.
  • Develop and demonstrate Proof-of-Concept (PoC) systems showcasing practical FHE applications.
  • Evaluate and integrate modern FHE frameworks and libraries such as:
    • OpenFHE,
    • HEAAN/CKKS-based frameworks,
    • TFHE,
    • Microsoft SEAL,
    • PALISADE,
    • Concrete,
    • or related technologies.
  • Contribute to research and development efforts in Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC), including lattice-based cryptography and quantum-safe migration technologies.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional engineering and product teams to transition research into deployable technologies.
  • Track emerging developments in cryptography, privacy-enhancing technologies, and quantum-safe security.

Required Qualifications

  • PhD in Computer Science, Mathematics, Electrical Engineering, Cryptography, or a related field, with 0-2 years of relevant industry experience.
  • Strong theoretical background in modern cryptography, particularly lattice-based cryptography and/or Fully Homomorphic Encryption.
  • Hands-on experience implementing cryptographic algorithms and optimizing performance-critical systems.
  • Strong programming skills in languages such as:
    • C++,
    • Python,
    • CUDA,
    • Rust,
    • or similar.
  • Familiarity with one or more FHE libraries/frameworks.
  • Strong understanding of algorithm optimization, computational complexity, and memory-performance tradeoffs.
  • Ability to independently drive research ideas into working prototypes and PoCs.
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with GPU acceleration and high-performance computing for cryptographic workloads.
  • Familiarity with CKKS, TFHE, BFV, or BGV schemes.
  • Experience with encrypted machine learning or privacy-preserving AI systems.
  • Knowledge of Post-Quantum Cryptography standards and NIST PQC algorithms (e.g., ML-KEM/Kyber, ML-DSA/Dilithium).
  • Publications or open-source contributions in cryptography, security, or privacy-enhancing technologies.
  • Experience working in research labs or advanced technology development environments.

Please Note: the salary range listed is dependent on the experience of the candidate. There are additional incentives to this compensation package.

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