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Cryptography Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Innover Global Inc

Be Seen First

Staff Software Security Engineer - cryptography

Chicago, IL · Remote

$60 - $75/hr

Senior Staff Software engineer - Cryptography Location: Remote Visa: USC only (we are not accepting any other visas at this moment)​​​​ ​​Responsibilities: * Design, develop, and maintain ...

Innover Global Inc

Be Seen First

Staff Software Security Engineer - cryptography

Chicago, IL · Remote

$60 - $75/hr

Senior Staff Software engineer - Cryptography Location: Remote Visa: USC only (we are not accepting any other visas at this moment)​​​​ ​​Responsibilities: * Design, develop, and maintain ...

U.S. Navy

INTELLIGENCE SPECIALIST

Hammond, IN · On-site

$89K - $112K/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.

U.S. Navy

INTELLIGENCE SPECIALIST

Chicago, IL · On-site

$96K - $122K/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.

U.S. Navy

INTELLIGENCE SPECIALIST

Aurora, IL · On-site

$89K - $113K/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.

U.S. Navy

INTELLIGENCE SPECIALIST

Gary, IN · 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.

Resource 1

Blockchain Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

Apply the latest cryptology techniques to protect digital transaction data against cyberattacks and information hacks. * Maintain client and server-side applications. * Optimize and secure blockchain ...

EndoSec LLC

FPGA Engineer

Elk Grove Village, IL

$128K - $164K/yr

Apply Now RTL, C/C++, Python, VHDL, Verilog, Tcl, cryptography, hardware, embedded software, System Integration, Hardware Security, Xilinx, Simulation, IP core, Versal, Stratix, concept to deployment ...

EndoSec LLC

FPGA Engineer

Elk Grove Village, IL

$128K - $164K/yr

Apply Now RTL, C/C++, Python, VHDL, Verilog, Tcl, cryptography, hardware, embedded software, System Integration, Hardware Security, Xilinx, Simulation, IP core, Versal, Stratix, concept to deployment ...

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All JobsCryptography JobsCryptography Jobs in Chicago, IL

Cryptography information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$14

$24

$32

How much do cryptography jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for cryptography in Chicago, IL is $24.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.29 and $29.95 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 is cryptography and 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 jobs pay $500,000 a year?

In the field of cryptography, senior roles such as Chief Security Officer, Chief Cryptographer, or senior cybersecurity executives can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially in large corporations or tech firms. These positions typically require extensive experience, advanced certifications, and expertise in encryption, security protocols, and risk management.

Can I make $200,000 a year in cyber security?

Cryptography professionals working in cybersecurity, especially those with advanced skills, certifications, and experience in areas like encryption, secure systems, and threat analysis, can potentially earn $200,000 or more annually. High-level roles such as security architects or senior consultants often reach or exceed this salary level, particularly in organizations with complex security needs or in high-cost regions.

What is the average salary of a cryptologist?

The average salary of a cryptologist in the United States typically ranges from $70,000 to $130,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and security clearance levels. Professionals with advanced skills in cryptography, often working in government or cybersecurity firms, tend to earn higher salaries. Certifications such as CISSP or CISA can also influence earning potential.

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.

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 careers could you have in cryptology?

Careers in cryptology include roles such as cryptographer, cryptanalyst, security analyst, and information security engineer. These positions involve designing, analyzing, and implementing encryption systems, often requiring knowledge of mathematics, computer science, and specialized tools like cryptographic protocols and software. Certifications like CISSP or GIAC can enhance job prospects in this field.
More about Cryptography jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Cryptography jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Cryptography jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Cryptography jobs in Chicago, IL? For Cryptography jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cryptography jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Cryptography jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Cryptography jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Cryptography job openings:
Cryptography jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cryptography job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 71% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,214 per year, or $24.6 per hour.

VP, Staff Cryptography Engineer

Synchrony Financial

Chicago, IL • On-site

$135K - $230K/yr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Synchrony Financial rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 52 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 150 rated financial services

Job description

Role Summary/Purpose:

The  VP, Staff Cryptography Engineer will serve as a key role in safeguarding enterprise multi-cloud systems, networks, and data. The position is responsible for designing , developing, driving, implementing, leading and managing multi-cloud Information Security Engineering activities for the Cryptography program, including the underlying capabilities/ technolog ies . In addition, this role will be responsible for acting as a trusted peer and stakeholder advisor within the organization , working closely with Information Security Engineering leadership to ensure delivery of the overall program roadmap against the Cryptography strategy and vision.  

The VP, Staff Cryptography Eng ineer is part of the Synchrony Information Security Cryptography Team, serving as a Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) lead while supporting other efforts, such as Cloud Security, Cryptography, Information Security, Key/Secrets Management, Privacy, and Tokenization . The candidate would have an engineering position focused on delivering critical/key enterprise data protection controls, efficient supporting processes, & comprehensive automation capabilities to protect & enable Synchrony’s Information Security Engineering strategy at scale. The candidate is expected to have a strong understanding and technical work experience with Cloud Security, Cryptography, DevSecOps , Information Security, Key/Secrets Management, PKI (competency skills/work experience domains include automation, controls, governance, lifecycle management, operations, process engineering, and security standards development).  

Essential Responsibilities:

  • Adopting and promoting engineering excellence by identifying efficiencies and synergies through means of automation, collaboration, and orchestration  
  • Collaborates with architecture to identify capability gaps, develop requirements, identify solutions to address, assist with proof of concepts and testing of solutions  
  • Implementation and technical lead responsibilities that include ongoing DevSecOps / E ngineering support for a global cryptography program that leverages a portfolio of multi-cloud data protection capabilities  
  • Managing technology from the ground up and understanding gaps within the tech stack, including overlap with other technology and/or coverage, capability gaps   
  • Maintaining technology from a business as usual (BAU) aspect by ensuring the proper change management, disaster recover , incident management  processes are occurring and current   
  • Participate as one of several technical leads on team of I nformation S ecurity engineers  
  • Participate in authoring, editing, providing, or reviewing documentation (procedures, standards) to ensure a well-managed and mature security infrastructure  
  • Partners with peers within the organization to effectively prioritize work by using A gile processes and ensuring risks, impediments, and asks are brought to leadership in a timely fashion   
  • Plays a hands-on role in the engineering and implementation of multi-cloud security measures that protect enterprise applications, computer systems, information, infrastructure, and networks  
  • Plays a key role in designing and building multi-cloud solutions that safeguard the organizations platforms and systems   
  • Proactively identifies problems and clearly articulates solutions and recommendations  
  • Provide day-to-day administration and support for multi-cloud infrastructure related to API, application security, firewalls, encryption, intrusion detection systems, PKI, secrets management, vulnerability scanning, security monitoring tools, penetration testing, authentication, web filtering, identity management, or access control systems, and their associated logs and processes  
  • Providing engineering/operations support for multi-cloud technology and processes, ensuring superior customer service is being met, and identifying process improvements  
  • Serving as a leader, mentor , and subject-matter expert (SME) to other Info rmation Sec urity team members and/or stakeholders throughout the organization
  • Serving as a SAFe Product Owner for cryptographic technologies, accountable for defining/leading/ maintaining the team backlog and product roadmap  
  • Supporting a “you build it you own it” model – meaning the technology built by E ngineering is also supported from a wing-to-wing operations aspect  
  • Works closely with Information Security program manager, scrum master, and architects to convey technical impacts to development/engineering timeline and risks  
  • Work independently in identifying opportunities to improve engineering or other performance for Information Security/Technology & other functions across Synchrony  
  • Work with Enterprise and Information Security/Technology application owners, architects, developers, engineers , and governance teams to drive program delivery  
  • Perform other duties and/or special projects as assigned  

Qualifications/Requirements:

  • Bachelor degree with a minimum of 5 years experience in Application Development, Information Security, Systems Engineering or related field; in lieu of a degree, a High School Diploma/ GED and minimum 7 years equivalent work experience  
  • Minimum 3+ years of experience in Cloud  
  • Minimum 3+ years of experience in Cryptography  
  • Minimum 3 + years of experience in DevSecOps  
  • Mi nimum 3+ years of experience in leadership roles (as Cryptography Engineer is preferred)  
  • Minimum 4 + years of experience with regulatory compliance and information security management frameworks (e.g., COBIT, ISO27001, NIST, etc.)  
  • Proficient hands-on technical /working expertise with API development, API security , AWS ( Certificate Manager, KMS, Private CA, Secrets Manager) , Azure (Key Vault) , big data, CI/CD pipelines, Cloudbees /Jenkins, Cloudera, containers, cryptography methodologies , data encryption, databases, GCP (Cloud KMS, Secret Manager) Git/ Github , Go, HashiCorp Vault, Java, key/secrets management, Linux, Perl, PKI, Python, storage security, Terraform, tokenization  
  • Excellent oral communication and writing skills. Adept and presenting complex topics, influencing and executing with timely / actionable follow-through  

Desired Characteristics:

  • Ability to work under pressure and sustain productivity with multiple simultaneous projects across cross-functional engineering and operational information security teams
  • Certifications in audit, big data, cloud, cybersecurity, governance, information security, PCI, privacy, risk; AWS, Azure, CSA, GCP, GIAC, IAPP, ISC2, ISACA, PCI  
  • Cloud Security experience, especially around designing, building, managing solutions with the following vendors :  
  • AWS (Primary)  
  • Azure  
  • GCP  
  • Creativity and individual thinking, the ability to work both independently & with teams  
  • Cyber Security experience, especially around designing, building, managing solutions   
  • Demonstrate technical expertise in existing Information Technology/Security systems with the ability to keep pace with evolving security and technologies  
  • Demonstrate an understanding of business needs and commitment to delivering consistent, efficient, high quality , reliable and responsive service to the business  
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the impact of emerging business and end-user technologies have on Information Security architecture/engineering requirements  
  • Demonstrated experience communicating complex and technical issues to diverse audiences (verbally and in writing), in an actionable and easy to understand manner   
  • Demonstrated team focused mentality with proven experience to work effectively with diverse stakeholders  
  • Experience with Agile, Scaled Agile ( SAFe ), Scrum  
  • Familiarity with problem and incident management, change management, notifications, and basic operational understanding of running and maintaining infrastructure   
  • Proven strong decision-making capabilities, with a proven track record of weighing relative benefits/costs of potential actions and identifying the most appropriate one  
  • Strong and efficient problem-solving and analytical skills, willingness to learn   
  • Strong interpersonal skills with an emphasis on demonstrating previous experience at effectively influencing others, cross functionally at all levels within the organization  
  • Understanding of information security practices and policies, including risks and threats  
  • Understanding of various public cloud deployment/platform/service models from a development, engineering, infrastructure, and information security aspect  

Grade/Level: 12

The salary range for this position is 135,000.00 - 230,000.00 USD Annual and is eligible for an annual bonus based on individual and company performance.

Actual compensation offered within the posted salary range will be based upon work experience, skill level or knowledge.

Salaries are adjusted according to market in CA, NY Metro and Seattle.

Our Way of Working:

We’re proud to offer you flexibility. At Synchrony, our way of working allows you to have the option to work from home near one of our Hubs or come into one of our offices. You will be required to commute to your nearest Hub (either virtual or physical) for in-person engagement activities such as regular business or team meetings, training and culture events. 

*Field Sales and some Commercial team roles may have varied location requirements based upon partner obligations or preferences.

Eligibility Requirements:

  • You must be 18 years or older
  • You must have a high school diploma or equivalent
  • You must be willing to take a drug test, submit to a background investigation and submit fingerprints as part of the onboarding process
  • You must be able to satisfy the requirements of Section 19 of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act.
  • New hires (Level 4-7) must have 9 months of continuous service with the company before they are eligible to post on other roles.  Once this new hire time in position requirement is met, the associate will have a minimum 6 months’ time in position before they can post for future non-exempt roles.  Employees, level 8 or greater, must have at least 18 months’ time in position before they can post.  All internal employees must consistently meet performance expectations and have approval from your manager to post (or the approval of your manager and HR if you don’t meet the time in position or performance expectations).

Legal authorization to work in the U.S. is required.  We will not sponsor individuals for employment visas, now or in the future, for this job opening. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status. 

Our Commitment:

When you join us, you’ll be part of an inclusive culture where your individual skills, experience, and voice are not only heard – but valued. Together, we’re building a future where we can all belong, connect, and turn ideals into action. More than 50% of our workforce is engaged in our Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), where community and passion intersect to offer a safe space to learn and grow.

This starts when you choose to apply for a role at Synchrony. We ensure all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status. We’re proud to have an award-winning culture for all. 

Reasonable Accommodation Notice:

  • Federal law requires employers to provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities. Please tell us if you require a reasonable accommodation to apply for a job or to perform your job. Examples of reasonable accommodation include making a change to the application process or work procedures, providing documents in an alternate format, using a sign language interpreter, or using specialized equipment.
  • If you need special accommodations, please call our Career Support Line so that we can discuss your specific situation. We can be reached at 1-866-301-5627.   Representatives are available from 8am – 5pm Monday to Friday, Central Standard Time

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Information Technology

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