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Cryptography Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Cryptography Analyst

Mclean, VA · On-site

$219K - $268K/yr

Title: Cryptography Analyst Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! KBR's National Security Solutions team provides high-end engineering and advanced technology solutions to our customers in the ...

Cryptography Analyst

Mclean, VA · On-site

$219K - $268K/yr

Title: Cryptography Analyst Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! KBR's National Security Solutions team provides high-end engineering and advanced technology solutions to our customers in the ...

Senior Cryptography Analyst

Mclean, VA · On-site

$240K - $294K/yr

Senior Cryptography Analyst Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! KBR's National Security Solutions team provides high-end engineering and advanced technology solutions to our customers in the ...

Senior Cryptography Analyst Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! KBR's National Security Solutions team provides high-end engineering and advanced technology solutions to our customers in the ...

Cryptography Engineer The Opportunity: Use systems architecture, network engineering, or software development skill sets to implement post-quantum cryptography (PQC) solution architectures across a ...

Stay updated with the latest advancements in cryptography and ZK technology. Required skills: * Advanced degree in Mathematics, Computer Science, or a related field. * Proficiency in Circom, Halo2 ...

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Showing results 1-20

Cryptography information

See Virginia salary details

$14

$23

$31

How much do cryptography jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for cryptography in Virginia is $23.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.52 and $28.85 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 Virginia? The most popular types of Cryptography jobs in Virginia are:
What job categories do people searching Cryptography jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Cryptography jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Cryptography jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Cryptography job openings:
Infographic showing various Cryptography job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% Internship, 73% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,289 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Cryptography Analyst

KBR

Mclean, VA • On-site

$219K - $268K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


KBR rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

136th of 441 rated engineering


Job description

Title:

Cryptography Analyst

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: Work with advanced cryptographic technologies and mission-critical systems supporting national security objectives.

Collaborative Environment: Join a team of highly skilled technical experts dedicated to solving complex cybersecurity and cryptography challenges.

Impactful Work: Your expertise will directly influence the security and effectiveness of critical government missions through the identification and mitigation of vulnerabilities.

Key Responsibilities

  • Analyze software applications and systems to identify security gaps, vulnerabilities, and cryptographic weaknesses.
  • Assess and evaluate cryptographic implementations, algorithms, protocols, and technologies.
  • Conduct technical reviews of software and system architectures to ensure secure cryptographic practices.
  • Recommend technical solutions, enhancements, and risk mitigation strategies to address identified issues.
  • Provide subject matter expertise on cryptography-related topics in support of mission objectives.
  • Collaborate with technical stakeholders to develop and implement secure solutions.
  • Produce technical assessments, findings, and recommendations for leadership and customer review.

Work Environment

Location: McLean, VA (On-Site)

Travel Requirements: Minimal (0-10%)

Working Hours: Standard business hours

Qualifications

Required

  • Active TS/SCI with a Polygraph
  • Minimum of 12 of experience performing cryptography-related work within classified environments.
  • Experience with Computer Network Exploitation (CNE) and access development.
  • Demonstrated understanding of network protocols and communications technologies.
  • Strong knowledge of cryptographic algorithms, methodologies, and techniques.
  • Experience reviewing, assessing, and resolving cryptography-related issues and vulnerabilities.
  • Experience analyzing software and identifying security gaps, weaknesses, and associated risks.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to provide technical recommendations.

Desired

  • Experience with cryptographic hardware solutions and devices.
  • Familiarity with commercial and government cryptographic software products.
  • Experience supporting intelligence community or national security missions.
  • Knowledge of secure software development principles and cybersecurity best practices.
  • Experience performing vulnerability assessments or security research activities.

Basic Compensation:

$219,900 to $268,800

This range is for the Virginia area only

The offered rate will be based on the selected candidate's knowledge, skills, abilities and/or experience and in consideration of internal parity.

Additional Compensation:

KBR may offer bonuses, commissions, or other forms of compensation to certain job titles or levels, per internal policy or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be in the form of sign on bonus, relocation benefits, short term incentives, long term incentives, or discretionary payments for exceptional performance.

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.

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

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

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