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Cryptography Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

Lead Cryptography Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$158K - $198K/yr

The Cryptography, ICAM, & System Assurance department is comprised of an inspired multi-disciplinary team of researchers and practitioners driving innovation in the department's technical areas of ...

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CRYPTOLOGIC LINGUIST Overview: A Signals Intelligence (SIGINT) Voice Interceptor locates the enemy by identifying foreign language communications and provides the commander with real-time ...

CRYPTOLOGIC LINGUIST Overview: A Signals Intelligence (SIGINT) Voice Interceptor locates the enemy by identifying foreign language communications and provides the commander with real-time ...

CRYPTOLOGIC LINGUIST Overview: A Signals Intelligence (SIGINT) Voice Interceptor locates the enemy by identifying foreign language communications and provides the commander with real-time ...

INTELLIGENCE SPECIALIST

Lowell, MA · On-site

$93K - $118K/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.

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Cryptography information

See Boston, MA salary details

$15

$25

$34

How much do cryptography jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for cryptography in Boston, MA is $25.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.39 and $31.59 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 Boston, MA?

The most popular types of Cryptography jobs in Boston, MA are:

What are popular job titles related to Cryptography jobs in Boston, MA?

For Cryptography jobs in Boston, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cryptography jobs in Boston, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Cryptography jobs in Boston, MA are:

Infographic showing various Cryptography job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,011 per year, or $26 per hour.

Lead Cryptography Engineer

The MITRE Corporation

Mclean, VA • On-site

$158K - $198K/yr

Other

Posted yesterday

New


MITRE Corporation rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

157th of 447 rated engineering


Job description

Why choose between doing meaningful work and having a fulfilling life? At MITRE, you can have both. That's because MITRE people are committed to tackling our nation's toughest challenges-and we're committed to the long-term well-being of our employees. MITRE is different from most technology companies. We are a not-for-profit corporation chartered to work for the public interest, with no commercial conflicts to influence what we do. The R&D centers we operate for the government create lasting impact in fields as diverse as cybersecurity, healthcare, aviation, defense, and enterprise transformation. We're making a difference every day-working for a safer, healthier, and more secure nation and world. Our workplace reflects our values. We offer competitive benefits, exceptional professional development opportunities for career growth, and a culture of innovation that embraces adaptability, collaboration, technical excellence, and people in partnership. If this sounds like the choice you want to make, then choose MITRE - and make a difference with us.
The Cryptography, ICAM, & System Assurance department is comprised of an inspired multi-disciplinary team of researchers and practitioners driving innovation in the department's technical areas of focus, with particular emphasis in Cryptography; System Assurance; and Identity, Credential and Access Management (ICAM). We develop and apply scalable approaches for systems and software, evaluate technology and solutions, lead and foster external partnerships within the communities we support, and conduct novel research and development. We serve in critical roles including:
  • Aiding the Federal Government as a community in architecting and applying modern cryptography and PQC technologies to secure systems, software, and protocols.
  • Developing strategies, assessing policy and technical constraints, and facilitating the deployment of cryptography solutions into cloud, hybrid, and on-premises infrastructures for enterprise and tactical environments. As senior trusted advisors and leaders within the cryptography and PQC community internally and external to MITRE, we apply our knowledge of industry trends, advances in commercial technology, and relevant industry standards and protocols to inform our sponsors' decision-making.
  • Performing research and development, evaluation and testing and operational support for high-priority sponsor mission applications, MITRE Labs strategic initiatives, and MITRE's internal research and development program.

Roles & Responsibilities:
  • Translate mission needs into cryptographic technical requirements, interfaces, and measurable outcomes.
  • Build solutions for constrained environments (limited connectivity, offline sync) and define test strategies, roadmaps, and integration plans.
  • Act as subject matter expert on PQC standards (e.g. Lattice and SLH-DSA)
  • Act as subject matter expert on PKI
  • Collaborate with engineers, integrators, and vendors on technology evaluation, trade studies, reusable assets, and mentorship.

Basic Qualifications:
  • BS with 8-10 years relevant experience, or MS with 6-8 years, or PhD with 3-5 years; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Strong analytical/problem-solving skills and sound technical judgment.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to deliver results and collaborate across teams.
  • Ability to work effectively in secure/classified environments.
  • Continued employment on this work is contingent upon meeting and maintaining government security eligibility requirements (requirements may change based on sponsor needs).
  • This position requires a Top-Secret Clearance
  • Per the U.S. Government's eligibility requirements for a clearance, U.S. Citizenship is required.
  • This position requires a minimum of 50% hybrid on-site

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Doctorate in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Electrical/Computer Engineering, Mathematics or related field.
  • Demonstrable contributions to open source cryptography communities
  • Systems engineering experience (requirements, architecture, integration, test) and familiarity with development lifecycles.
  • Experience applying NIST PQC standards and guidelines
  • Strong understanding of cryptography and PQC concepts.
  • Interest in applied research and building reusable, scalable technical approaches.

This requisition requires the candidate to have a minimum of the following clearance(s):
Top Secret
This requisition requires the hired candidate to have or obtain, within one year from the date of hire, the following clearance(s):
Top Secret
Salary compensation range and midpoint:
$158,800 - $198,500 - $238,200 Annual
Work Location Type:
Hybrid
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
Commitment to Non-Discrimination
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability, status as a protected veteran or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, local or international law.
MITRE intends to maintain a website that is fully accessible to all individuals. If you are unable to search or apply for jobs and would like to request a reasonable accommodation for any part of MITRE's employment process, please email for general support and for intern positions. This service is for individuals requiring reasonable accommodation requests. Please note that vendor solicitations will not receive a reply.
Benefits information may be found here.
Copyright 1997-2026, The MITRE Corporation. All rights reserved. MITRE is a registered trademark of The MITRE Corporation. Material on this site may be copied and distributed with permission only.

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About MITRE

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Why choose between doing meaningful work and having a fulfilling life? At MITRE, you can have both. That's because MITRE people are committed to tackling our nation's toughest challenges-and we're committed to the long-term well-being of our employees. MITRE is different from most technology companies. We are a not-for-profit corporation chartered to work for the public interest, with no commercial conflicts to influence what we do. The R&D centers we operate for the government create lasting impact in fields as diverse as cybersecurity, healthcare, aviation, defense, and enterprise transformation. We're making a difference every day-working for a safer, healthier, and more secure nation and world. Our workplace reflects our values. We offer competitive benefits, exceptional professional development opportunities, and a culture of innovation that embraces diversity, inclusion, flexibility, collaboration, and career growth. If this sounds like the choice you want to make, then choose MITRE-and make a difference with us. MITRE is a trusted operator of federally funded research and development centers and we're on a mission to make the world a safer place-for all of humanity, today and in the future. To deliver on our mission, we need the world's best talent and leaders-groundbreakers and partnership-builders on a global scale in areas like healthcare, artificial intelligence, critical infrastructure resiliency, pandemic management, and cybersecurity. In return, we have the privilege of backing you with thousands of technical experts in diverse fields, a culture of innovation and knowledge sharing, access to data and resources uniquely available to MITRE through our wide-ranging partnerships across government, industry and academia.

Industry

It services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

McLean, VA, US

Year founded

1958

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