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Cyber Director Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Director, IAM Cyber Product

San Jose, CA · On-site

$273K - $286K/yr

Director, IAM Cyber Product Capital One is seeking a technical security product leader to deliver game-changing cybersecurity solutions based on threat, data, and design thinking. We are a technology ...

Cyber Systems Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$185K - $200K/yr

Cyber Defense & Tooling * Experience integrating security platforms with SIEM, SOAR, and EDR ... direct hire position and you must currently have an active TS/SCI Security Clearance or above. We ...

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Cyber Director information

What is a cyber director?

Cyber Directors are senior-level professionals responsible for overseeing an organization's cybersecurity strategy, policies, and operations. They lead teams that defend against cyber threats, manage incident response, and ensure compliance with security regulations. Cyber Directors collaborate with executive leadership to align cybersecurity initiatives with business goals and often communicate risks and best practices to stakeholders. Their role is critical in protecting sensitive information and maintaining the integrity of an organization's digital infrastructure.

How does a cyber director typically collaborate with other departments to ensure organization-wide cybersecurity?

A Cyber Director works closely with departments such as IT, legal, compliance, and executive leadership to develop and implement comprehensive cybersecurity strategies. They often lead cross-functional meetings to assess risks, coordinate incident response plans, and ensure that security policies align with business objectives. Effective communication and collaboration are essential, as the Cyber Director must translate technical risks into actionable recommendations for non-technical stakeholders while ensuring all teams are aware of their roles in maintaining cybersecurity. This collaborative approach helps create a unified security culture and minimizes organizational vulnerabilities.

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

To thrive as a Cyber Director, you need extensive expertise in cybersecurity strategies, risk management, and compliance, usually backed by a degree in computer science or a related field and significant industry experience. Familiarity with security frameworks (like NIST or ISO 27001), advanced threat detection tools, and certifications such as CISSP or CISM is typically required. Strong leadership, strategic thinking, and effective communication are essential soft skills for guiding teams and aligning security initiatives with business objectives. These skills ensure robust protection against cyber threats, regulatory compliance, and the successful integration of cybersecurity into organizational strategy.

What is the difference between Cyber Director vs Cyber Security Manager?

AspectCyber DirectorCyber Security Manager
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Cybersecurity, IT, or related fields; often requires industry certifications like CISSP, CISMBachelor's in Cybersecurity, IT, or related fields; often requires certifications like CISSP, CISM, or Security+
Work EnvironmentStrategic leadership, executive meetings, policy development, overseeing multiple teamsOperational management, team oversight, implementing security measures, incident response
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in large organizations, government agencies, and corporations with complex security needsCommon in mid to large organizations, focusing on day-to-day security operations

The main difference between a Cyber Director and a Cyber Security Manager lies in scope and focus. The Cyber Director typically handles strategic planning and high-level policies, while the Cyber Security Manager focuses on operational security and team management. Both roles require similar credentials and certifications, but the Cyber Director operates at a higher, more strategic level within the organization.

How much do cybersecurity directors make?

Cybersecurity directors typically earn between $120,000 and $200,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and location. They often hold advanced certifications like CISSP or CISM and oversee security teams, policies, and incident response strategies within organizations.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cyber jobs in California?

The most popular types of Cyber jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Cyber Director jobs?

Cities in California with the most Cyber Director job openings:

Infographic showing various Cyber Director job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution.

Director, Cyber Mission Engagement

Kratos Defense

San Diego, CA • Hybrid

$180K - $220K/yr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Kratos Defense & Security Solutions rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Clearance Required: Active TS/SCI

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions develops and delivers transformative, mission-critical technologies for national security customers worldwide. We specialize in innovative solutions across satellite communications, cybersecurity, unmanned systems, space, and C5ISR. At Kratos, we accelerate customer missions by combining commercial agility with deep technical expertise to solve the Nation's most challenging problems.

We are seeking a Director, Cyber Mission Engagement to expand our impact within the cyber portfolio. This strategic role is responsible for shaping, maturing, and executing portfolio strategy by understanding mission needs, anticipating customer requirements, and aligning those with Kratos capabilities, technologies, and long-term investment priorities. The ideal candidate is a highly credible technical leader with strong relationships across the national security community and a proven ability to drive growth, influence stakeholders, and position emerging capabilities for mission impact.

Key Responsibilities

  • Develop and drive strategy to increase mission impact within Kratos' cyber portfolio by applying commercially available capabilities to mission needs
  • Engage with senior Government stakeholders to understand emerging requirements and influence future programs
  • Partner with engineering, product teams, and business development to shape technical roadmaps and capability development
  • Lead cross-functional teams to ensure strategy execution, on-contract growth, and successful delivery
  • Translate complex technical requirements into actionable business strategies
  • Foster a culture that embraces Kratos' commercial capabilities and integrates them into mission solutions
  • Support pricing strategy, P&L planning, investment decisions, and long-range business strategy
  • Build trusted relationships within the US Government offensive cyber community

  • Deep understanding of offnet offensive cyber access mission needs and programs
  • Ability to understand and articulate technical requirements and capabilities
  • Proven ability to lead and coordinate cross-functional teams
  • Experience managing complex projects in the national security space sector
  • Demonstrated success leading development and infrastructure teams
  • 15 years of operational experience specializing in offensive cyber, satellite communications, space operations, and engineering
  • Bachelors of Science in engineering or related technical field
  • Active TS/SCI required

Preferred Qualifications

  • Master's degree in engineering or a related technical field

#LI-Hybrid

The grade-based pay range for this job is listed below. Individual salaries within that range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge, and skills.

Competitive salary based on experience and education
Salary Range: $180,000-$220,000

Kratos is valued for our ability to design and deliver leading edge, resilient solutions for aerospace communication, control, awareness and mission success across a continuum of offerings—from commercial to tailored custom solutions and integrated programs. Customers trust us to stay relevant and know we are in it for the long-haul. We bring both the capability and confidence that our customers value and depend on. And we always deliver.



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