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Cryptography Researcher Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Experience verifying programs in safety critical fields such as; aerospace/defense, automotive, medical, cryptography, etc * Proven track record in research or development of programming languages

Junior Software Engineer

Temecula, CA · On-site

$115K - $120K/yr

Junior Software Engineer Cryptography, Systems & Secure Infrastructure Role Type: Junior Software ... Contributions to open-source software, security tools, systems software, or technical research ...

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 ...

... cryptography, popular threat modeling systems, and other contemporary security topics * Contributions to the security community (open source, published research, presentations, blog posts, etc.

... cryptography, popular threat modeling systems, and other contemporary security topics * Contributions to the security community (open source, published research, presentations, blog posts, etc.

The next generation of AI companies, enterprises, and research teams do not just need more GPUs ... Whether your strength is in AI, systems, distributed compute, cryptography, or something unexpected ...

Showing results 21-40

Cryptography Researcher information

See California salary details

$29.6K

$111.6K

$162.3K

How much do cryptography researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 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.

What is a cryptography researcher?

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 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.

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

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 cities in California are hiring for Cryptography Researcher jobs?

Cities in California with the most Cryptography Researcher job openings:

Infographic showing various Cryptography Researcher job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 73% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,621 per year, or $53.7 per hour.

Research Engineer, Formal Methods

Harmonic

Palo Alto, CA • On-site

$140 - $200/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

About Harmonic

At Harmonic, we are building a mathematical reasoning engine that operates with absolute precision. While most AI makes maximum-likelihood guesses, Harmonic's Aristotle uses Lean4 and reinforcement learning to verify its reasoning and results.

Following our Gold Medal-level performance on the 2025 International Math Olympiad (IMO) and the successful resolution of long-standing open problems, we are proving that AI can master the most rigorous domains of human thought. Backed by some of the world’s most prominent investors, we are intentionally scaling an elite technical team.

Visit our company blog to learn more about what we are working on!

About the Role

We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled Research Engineer to join our Formal Methods team. The initial focus of this position will be on pushing the limits of AI based theorem proving for verification of software and/or hardware. The successful candidate will play a key role in developing new approaches to express and prove important software and hardware properties, work with AI researchers to train and develop AI systems to reliably check them.

Key Responsibilities
  • Conduct research in formal methods for verification of software, hardware and mathematical domains
  • Apply formal verification techniques using Lean or similar frameworks to formally verify safety critical systems
  • Develop and implement algorithms and techniques to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of formal methods for AI systems
Minimum Qualifications
  • BS or MS in Computer Science, Mathematics, a related technical field, or equivalent industry experience
  • Basic proficiency in python
  • Proficiency and practical experience with at least one proof assistant (e.g., Lean, Coq, Isabelle, Agda) and a strong foundation in formal methods and mathematical logic
  • Experience driving highly technical research projects from early concept to delivery
Preferred Qualifications
  • Expert level knowledge of Lean4
  • PhD in Computer Science, Mathematics, or related technical field
  • Experience verifying programs in safety critical fields such as; aerospace/defense, automotive, medical, cryptography, etc
  • Proven track record in research or development of programming languages
  • Proven track record of high-quality research demonstrated by publications, patents, or software contributions
  • Contributions to open-source projects or development of software tools in the field
What We Offer
  • Unlimited PTO
  • 401(k) matching
  • 100% employer-paid health, vision, and dental benefits for employees and 50% coverage for dependents. Harmonic offers varied health coverage options to select what is best for you and your family.
  • Health Savings Account (HSA) available for qualifying health plans
Equal Opportunity Statement

Harmonic is committed to diversity and inclusivity in the workplace. We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, disability or any other legally protected status.

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