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Cyber Systems Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Cyber Systems Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$185K - $200K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Strong background in cyber systems engineering and solution architecture. * Experience designing secure hybrid-cloud and enclave-based architectures. * Hands-on expertise with Windows Server, Active ...

Cyber Systems Security Engineer Location: Schriever SFB, Colorado Springs, CO Pay Rate: The annual salary range for this position is $135,000 - $175,000. Please note that the salary information is a ...

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Cyber Systems Engineer information

See California salary details

$73K

$131.7K

$168.8K

How much do cyber systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for cyber systems engineer in California is $131,722.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $112,500.00 and $154,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Cyber Systems Engineer, you need a strong background in computer science, cybersecurity principles, systems architecture, and typically a bachelor’s degree in a related field. Familiarity with cybersecurity tools such as SIEM platforms, firewalls, network monitoring systems, and certifications like CISSP or Security+ are commonly required. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication are standout soft skills for this role. These skills are crucial to identify vulnerabilities, implement robust security measures, and ensure the protection and reliability of complex information systems.

What does a cyber systems engineer do?

A Cyber Systems Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining secure computer systems and networks to protect an organization’s data and operations from cyber threats. They assess potential vulnerabilities, develop security protocols, and monitor systems for suspicious activity. Their work often involves collaborating with IT, security teams, and management to ensure compliance with security standards and best practices. Additionally, they may be involved in incident response and recovery efforts if a security breach occurs.

How does a cyber systems engineer typically collaborate with other IT and security teams within an organization?

Cyber Systems Engineers work closely with network administrators, cybersecurity analysts, and software developers to design, implement, and maintain secure systems. Collaboration often involves participating in cross-functional meetings to assess security needs, troubleshoot vulnerabilities, and develop mitigation strategies. They may also assist in incident response efforts and provide technical guidance to ensure compliance with security policies. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as these engineers frequently coordinate with various departments to uphold the organization's overall cybersecurity posture.

What is the difference between Cyber Systems Engineer vs Network Security Engineer?

AspectCyber Systems EngineerNetwork Security Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a BS in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, or related fields; certifications like CISSP, CEH are commonSimilar credentials; often holds CISSP, CompTIA Security+; focuses on security certifications
Work EnvironmentDesigns, develops, and integrates cybersecurity systems within various IT environmentsFocuses on securing network infrastructure, monitoring for threats, and implementing security protocols
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across government, defense, and private sectors for system security architecturePrimarily employed in organizations with extensive network infrastructure needing security measures

While both roles require cybersecurity knowledge and certifications, Cyber Systems Engineers focus on designing and integrating secure systems, whereas Network Security Engineers specialize in protecting network infrastructure from threats.

What are popular job titles related to Cyber Systems Engineer jobs in California?

For Cyber Systems Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Cyber Systems Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $131,722 per year, or $63.3 per hour.

Cyber Systems Engineer / Principal Cyber Systems Engineer (AHT)

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Manhattan Beach, CA

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 23 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 363 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 540 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: YesCLEARANCE TYPE: Top SecretTRAVEL: Yes, 25% of the TimeDescriptionAt Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.

Northrop Grumman Defense Systems (NGDS) is looking for a Cyber Systems Engineer/ Cyber Systems Engineer that can also support IT material requirements preparation (Bill of Materials or BOM), planning and coordination with the Global Supply Chain (GSC) team to support program execution and proposals based out of Manhattan Beach, CA. Our Team develops and supports state-of-the-art Mission Planning software systems, and the IT material in scope is typically software development tool licenses and computing/network equipment hardware maintenance agreements.

The individual will be responsible for operating in an Agile team environment to perform the following:

  • Design, plan, implement, and perform assessment of security controls, polices, and processes compliance with National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Special Publication (SP) 800-53 and CNSSI 1253.
  • Collaborate with SW development and cyber teams on implementing and documenting plans for system deployment.
  • Troubleshoot HW/SW deployments in a development CI/CD environment and at customer sites.
  • Implement changes to HW, SW, and networking configurations
  • Work with customer ISSMs/ISSOs to develop and implement changes in environments operating under, or seeking, an ATO/IATT.
  • Provide technical analyses of cyber infrastructure challenges and problems; develop/identify technical solutions responsive to customer needs.
  • Support installation and checkout of systems at customer sites and support subsequent acceptance testing of deployed systems.
  • Understand Statement of Work (SOW) for both NG and Suppliers and prepare IT material requirements documents (BOM).
  • Coordinates all IT material proposal requirements (BOM) with the GSC team for pricing, review and approval.
  • Works closely with Program Management and Supply Chain Management to ensure supplier quotes comply with program requirements.
  • Submits all material proposal BOMS to the price cost analysts and sector BOM team for review and approval
  • Researches and analyzes historical data to develop cost models to support proposal efforts
  • Supports material requirements (BOM) reviews with management and customer representatives
  • Establishes and continuously manages detailed IT material purchasing schedules to ensure material is up to date and available for program purposes.
  • The role is mission critical, time sensitive, and requires an individual who can hit the ground running, navigate a complex stakeholder environment, and maintain the highest standards of security while delivering results within a tight window.
  • Travel to CONUS customer sites up to 25% of time.

All work must be performed on-site in Manhattan Beach, CA or at customer locations.

Basic Qualifications
  • US Citizenship andActive DoD Top Secret ClearancePrograms clearance (adjudicated within the last 5 years or under continuous evaluation).
  • Ability to obtain a Top Secret Special Access Programs (SAP) security clearance.
  • For Cyber Systems Engineer: Bachelor's degree in a Cybersecurity, Computer/Systems Engineering, Information Technology, or a closely related technical discipline and 2+ years of experience or Master's degree in a STEM discipline and 0 years of experience.
  • For Principal Cyber Systems Engineer: Bachelor's degree in a Cybersecurity, Computer/Systems Engineering, Information Technology, or a closely related technical discipline and 5+ years of experience or Master's degree in a STEM discipline and 3 years of experience.
  • Background in SW/HW integration/troubleshooting/test principles, COTS SW/HW incorporation, and field support.
  • Experience with HW and SW administration within a restricted program SW Development Life Cycle.
    • Design & Development (Software) or Procurement (Hardware): Build the software or buy hardware components from approved vendors.
    • Testing: Verify the software works and that hardware meets safety and performance standards.
    • Deployment & Configuration: Install software into production and physically configure or assign hardware to users.
    • Monitoring & Maintenance: Apply patches, fix bugs, and repair or upgrade physical parts.
  • Hands-on experience deploying and configuring Linux and/or Windows systems per DoD STIG requirements.
  • Experience working with IT material requirements (BOM) and working with program management and global supply chain teams to ensure material procurement is per program needs.
  • CompTIA Security+ Certification (or equivalent DoD 8570 certification).
  • Proficiency with MS Office Suite, specifically Excel and Word.
Preferred (nice to have) Qualifications:
  • Active DoD Top Secret SCI clearance (with a background investigation within the past 5 years or enrolled into Continuous Evaluation).
  • Experience with current military Mission Planning Systems such as Joint Mission Planning System (JMPS), AFMSS and/or PFPS.
  • Experience working in an Agile/Scrum team.
  • Experience with cloud service providers like Azure and AWS, focusing on configuration, integration, and sustainability of cloud-based systems.
  • Experience designing, integrating, maintaining, and retiring systems within cloud environments.
  • Professional Certifications: CISSP, CSSP (Information Security Engineer).
  • Prior experience in IT Material Requirements (BOM) Development in a Proposal Environment, background with Global Supply Chain Subcontract/Procurement requirements coordination.
Primary Level Salary Range: $101,000.00 - $151,400.00Secondary Level Salary Range: $125,300.00 - $187,900.00The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939