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Cryptography Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

INTELLIGENCE SPECIALIST

Merced, CA · On-site

$100K - $126K/yr

ABOUT As a Cryptologic Technician, you are one of the world's greatest problem-solvers. We're looking for people with sharp minds, whose brains are built for picking out patterns most will miss.

INTELLIGENCE SPECIALIST

Arcata, CA · On-site

$101K - $128K/yr

ABOUT As a Cryptologic Technician, you are one of the world's greatest problem-solvers. We're looking for people with sharp minds, whose brains are built for picking out patterns most will miss.

INTELLIGENCE SPECIALIST

San Diego, CA · On-site

$99K - $125K/yr

ABOUT As a Cryptologic Technician, you are one of the world's greatest problem-solvers. We're looking for people with sharp minds, whose brains are built for picking out patterns most will miss.

INTELLIGENCE SPECIALIST

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$102K - $128K/yr

ABOUT As a Cryptologic Technician, you are one of the world's greatest problem-solvers. We're looking for people with sharp minds, whose brains are built for picking out patterns most will miss.

INTELLIGENCE SPECIALIST

Chico, CA · On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

ABOUT As a Cryptologic Technician, you are one of the world's greatest problem-solvers. We're looking for people with sharp minds, whose brains are built for picking out patterns most will miss.

INTELLIGENCE SPECIALIST

Pomona, CA · On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

ABOUT As a Cryptologic Technician, you are one of the world's greatest problem-solvers. We're looking for people with sharp minds, whose brains are built for picking out patterns most will miss.

INTELLIGENCE SPECIALIST

San Jose, CA · On-site

$107K - $135K/yr

ABOUT As a Cryptologic Technician, you are one of the world's greatest problem-solvers. We're looking for people with sharp minds, whose brains are built for picking out patterns most will miss.

INTELLIGENCE SPECIALIST

Stockton, CA · On-site

$99K - $124K/yr

ABOUT As a Cryptologic Technician, you are one of the world's greatest problem-solvers. We're looking for people with sharp minds, whose brains are built for picking out patterns most will miss.

INTELLIGENCE SPECIALIST

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$100K - $126K/yr

ABOUT As a Cryptologic Technician, you are one of the world's greatest problem-solvers. We're looking for people with sharp minds, whose brains are built for picking out patterns most will miss.

INTELLIGENCE SPECIALIST

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$101K - $127K/yr

ABOUT As a Cryptologic Technician, you are one of the world's greatest problem-solvers. We're looking for people with sharp minds, whose brains are built for picking out patterns most will miss.

INTELLIGENCE SPECIALIST

San Luis Obispo, CA · On-site

$101K - $127K/yr

ABOUT As a Cryptologic Technician, you are one of the world's greatest problem-solvers. We're looking for people with sharp minds, whose brains are built for picking out patterns most will miss.

INTELLIGENCE SPECIALIST

Northridge, CA · On-site

$101K - $127K/yr

ABOUT As a Cryptologic Technician, you are one of the world's greatest problem-solvers. We're looking for people with sharp minds, whose brains are built for picking out patterns most will miss.

INTELLIGENCE SPECIALIST

Fresno, CA · On-site

$93K - $117K/yr

ABOUT As a Cryptologic Technician, you are one of the world's greatest problem-solvers. We're looking for people with sharp minds, whose brains are built for picking out patterns most will miss.

Senior Security Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$123K - $169K/yr

Responsibilities : • Own and mature PKI and cryptography infrastructure across enterprise and cloud environments. • Define and improve standards, guardrails, and reference patterns for ...

Junior Software Engineer

Temecula, CA · On-site

$115K - $120K/yr

Junior Software Engineer Cryptography, Systems & Secure Infrastructure Role Type: Junior Software Engineer (Hands-On Growth Role) Core Technologies: C/C++, Python, Linux, Containers, Security ...

Senior Security Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$123K - $169K/yr

This is an engineering role for someone with deep, practical experience in PKI and cryptography infrastructure, plus hands-on experience in security architecture as a secondary domain. You'll work ...

Senior Security Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$123K - $169K/yr

This is an engineering role for someone with deep, practical experience in PKI and cryptography infrastructure, plus hands-on experience in security architecture as a secondary domain. You'll work ...

You will architect and implement cryptography-based solutions - including data encryption, Root of Trust, Secure Boot, Device Attestation, and Self-Encrypting Devices (SED) - while leading the ...

Showing results 21-40

Cryptography information

See California salary details

$14

$23

$31

How much do cryptography jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for cryptography in California is $23.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $28.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are cryptography jobs?

Jobs in cryptography include cryptographer, cipher, and other positions that work to ensure data security. As a cryptographer, your responsibilities are to develop new algorithms, convert information, study cryptographic technologies, search for weaknesses that would leave information unprotected, and build a better design for encrypted data. You can also work as a cipher and use cryptanalytic techniques to decrypt information as well as test for weaknesses in networks, phones, and emails. In cryptography, you are both the code maker and the code breaker so you can ensure information is protected. You can find cryptography jobs that handle personal information, finances, national security, and other valuable information.

What do cryptographers do?

Cryptography is the science of securing information by transforming it into a format that only authorized parties can understand. Cryptographers are professionals who develop and analyze algorithms, protocols, and systems to protect data from unauthorized access, tampering, and misuse. Their work includes designing encryption methods, securing communication channels, and ensuring data integrity and authentication for various digital systems. They play a vital role in cybersecurity, financial systems, and any area that requires confidential information to be kept safe.

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

To thrive as a Cryptographer, you need a strong background in mathematics, computer science, and information security, often supported by a relevant degree or advanced coursework. Familiarity with cryptographic algorithms, programming languages (such as Python, C++, or Java), and tools like OpenSSL or PGP, along with certifications like CISSP or CEH, is highly beneficial. Analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and meticulous attention to detail are crucial soft skills for designing secure systems and identifying vulnerabilities. These skills ensure the creation and maintenance of robust cryptographic solutions that protect sensitive data in a constantly evolving threat landscape.

Is cryptography a good career path?

Cryptography is a specialized field within cybersecurity that involves developing and analyzing encryption methods to protect data. It offers strong job growth, high demand for skilled professionals, and often requires knowledge of mathematics, programming, and security protocols. Careers in cryptography can be rewarding for those with technical expertise and an interest in information security.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in cryptography roles?

Professionals in cryptography often encounter challenges such as staying current with rapidly evolving security threats and cryptographic algorithms, ensuring the secure implementation of complex protocols, and balancing security with system performance. Collaboration with software engineers, security analysts, and other stakeholders is crucial to integrate cryptographic solutions effectively. Additionally, cryptographers must remain vigilant about regulatory compliance and the potential impact of quantum computing on current encryption methods.

What is the difference between Cryptography vs Network Security Specialist?

AspectCryptographyNetwork Security Specialist
Required CredentialsCryptography certifications (e.g., CISSP, GIAC), degrees in computer science or cybersecurityCertifications like CISSP, CEH, CompTIA Security+; degrees in cybersecurity or related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, security teams, software development environmentsCorporate networks, security operations centers, IT departments
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, government agencies, cybersecurity firmsFinancial institutions, government agencies, large corporations
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding cryptographic techniques and algorithmsProtecting network infrastructure and preventing cyber threats

Cryptography focuses on designing and analyzing secure communication methods through encryption algorithms, while Network Security Specialists implement and manage security measures to protect network infrastructure from threats. Both roles require cybersecurity certifications and often work together within cybersecurity teams to ensure data confidentiality and integrity.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cryptography jobs in California? The most popular types of Cryptography jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Cryptography jobs in California? For Cryptography jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cryptography jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Cryptography jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Cryptography jobs? Cities in California with the most Cryptography job openings:
Infographic showing various Cryptography job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,064 per year, or $23.6 per hour.

Cryptography Security Engineer SME

Modern Technology Solutions, Inc.

El Segundo, CA • On-site

$163K - $204K/yr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Modern Technology Solutions, Inc. (MTSI) is seeking a motivated and experienced Cryptography Security Engineer SME to join our team in El Segundo, CA.
The MSEIT effort provides leading-edge Systems Engineering & Integration (SE&I) for the United States Space Force's (USSF) Space Systems Command (SSC). We acquire state-of-the-art Military and Commercial Satellite Communications (SATCOM) systems, providing global, secure, survivable, and protected communications for our nation's warfighters. We seek technical individuals who will thrive in a highly collaborative work environment of small teams, using the most modern tools and methodologies to tackle the challenges of integrating complex space and ground communications systems.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Provide technical expertise in the development, integration, and delivery of both space and ground cryptographic units, ensuring all solutions align with mission objectives and system requirements.
  • Lead spacecraft cryptographic unit trade studies, evaluating candidate solutions against requirements, interface constraints, environmental considerations, performance criteria, and testability. Deliver clear, data-driven recommendations to program leadership and customers.
  • Oversee the technical design, interface definition, development, and delivery of needed encryption units, including hardware and firmware. Ensure compatibility with subsystems and compliance with mission, cybersecurity, and interface standards.
  • Manage technical design, interface definition, development, and delivery of needed encryption units, ensuring proper integration with ground systems, mission operations, and secure architectures.
  • Support and oversee all testing activities for encryption units including dry runs and SVT. Ensure successful completion of verification and validation campaigns by developing or reviewing test plans, procedures, and reports. Participate in TRRs, dry run, SVTs, participate in CDRL review, address anomalies, and ensure full requirement traceability.
  • Provide supplemental support for Protected Key Management Architecture (PKMA) including secure key management processes, documentation, and architecture alignment.
  • Build and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with government customers, contractors, subcontractors, and FFRDC partners. Represent the crypto engineering function in design reviews, technical interchange meetings, and program-level forums.
  • Lead and mentor engineers (junior to mid-level), including task assignment, technical reviews, and professional development.
  • Oversee crypto lifecycle management. Manage technical scope, priorities, and dependencies for cryptographic tasks within program schedules and constraints.
  • Establish and enforce cryptographic standards and best practices across programs and platforms.

Work Environment:
  • Location: On-site
  • Travel Requirements: About once monthly
  • Working Hours: Standard

Qualifications:
Required:
  • An active TS/SCI is required for this position
  • Bachelors degree
  • Understanding of the discipline and practice of Systems Engineering throughout the system lifecycle phases of concept, development, production, operations, and sustainment
  • 15+ years' experience with systems engineering, which may include crypto, cyber security, requirements development, verification, integration, and test
  • 10+ years' experience with crypto, NSA certification processes, and Key Management processes
  • 5+ years' experience with military or DoD or Intelligence Community space and ground
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office products, such as Excel, Word, and PowerPoint
  • Possess strong oral and written communication and presentation skills; able to author final-version deliverable technical documents and reports

Desired Skills and Experience:
  • Bachelors degree in technical field, such as engineering, mathematics, physics, information systems, information technology, or computer science
  • Masters degree
  • Familiarity with Jira and Confluence
  • Experience with NSA's Key Management Infrastructure (KMI)
  • Experience with HAIPEs and cross-domain solutions (CDS)
  • Certifications, such as CISSP, SANS, CEH, INCOSE CSEP or ESEP, OCSMP (MBSE)

Compensation: The pay range for this position in California is $163,000/year to $204,000/year; however, base pay offered may vary depending on established government contract ranges, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience, and other factors. MTSI also offers a full range of medical, financial, and other benefits, dependent on the position offered. Base pay information is based on market location. Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis. This posting will be renewed periodically until the position is filled.
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