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Cybersecurity Entry Level Jobs in California, PA

Cybersecurity Entry Level information

See California, PA salary details

$39.4K

$81.6K

$127K

How much do cybersecurity entry level jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for cybersecurity entry level in California, PA is $81,576.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,700.00 and $98,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry-level cybersecurity job?

Entry-level cybersecurity jobs are positions designed for individuals who are new to the field of cybersecurity. These roles typically require fundamental knowledge of IT and security concepts and may include titles such as Security Analyst, IT Security Specialist, or Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst. Responsibilities often involve monitoring security systems, responding to alerts, assisting with incident response, and helping maintain security protocols. Entry-level positions are a great way to gain hands-on experience and build the foundation for a cybersecurity career.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level professionals in cybersecurity roles?

Entry-level cybersecurity professionals often encounter challenges such as quickly adapting to evolving threats, managing large volumes of security alerts, and understanding complex IT environments. They may also need to balance ongoing learning with daily responsibilities, as staying current with industry trends and new attack methods is essential. Collaboration with more experienced team members and other IT departments is common, providing valuable opportunities to learn and develop practical skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry-level cybersecurity professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry-Level Cybersecurity professional, you typically need foundational knowledge in networking, operating systems, and security principles, often supported by a relevant degree or coursework. Familiarity with security tools like firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and certifications such as CompTIA Security+ or Cisco CCNA are commonly expected. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication skills help you identify vulnerabilities and collaborate with IT teams. These competencies are crucial for protecting organizational assets and ensuring a robust security posture from the outset of your cybersecurity career.

What is the difference between Cybersecurity Entry Level vs Cybersecurity Analyst?

AspectCybersecurity Entry LevelCybersecurity Analyst
Required CertificationsCompTIA Security+, Cisco CCNA SecurityCompTIA Security+, CISSP (preferred), CEH
Work EnvironmentEntry-level roles in IT teams, security support, or help deskMonitoring security systems, analyzing threats, incident response
Employer & Industry UsageEntry positions across various industries, often as part of IT teamsMid-level roles in cybersecurity departments, finance, healthcare, tech

Cybersecurity Entry Level roles typically focus on foundational security tasks and require basic certifications, while Cybersecurity Analysts handle more complex threat analysis and incident response, often requiring additional experience and certifications.

What are entry-level roles in cybersecurity?

Entry-level roles in cybersecurity include positions such as Security Analyst, Security Technician, and Cybersecurity Intern. These roles typically require foundational knowledge of networks, security tools, and sometimes certifications like CompTIA Security+; they often involve monitoring security systems, assisting with incident response, and supporting security infrastructure. They serve as starting points for building experience in the cybersecurity field.

What are some beginner cybersecurity entry level jobs?

Entry-level cybersecurity jobs include roles such as Security Analyst, Security Technician, or Cybersecurity Intern. These positions typically require foundational knowledge of networks, security tools, and sometimes certifications like CompTIA Security+; they often involve monitoring security systems, assisting with incident response, and supporting security infrastructure.

What cities near California, PA are hiring for Cybersecurity Entry Level jobs?

Cities near California, PA with the most Cybersecurity Entry Level job openings:

Infographic showing various Cybersecurity Entry Level job openings in California, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,576 per year, or $39.2 per hour.

Data Scientist, Entry Level

Naval Nuclear Laboratory

West Mifflin, PA • On-site

$71 - $109/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Naval Nuclear Laboratory rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

Working at the Naval Nuclear Laboratory we foster pride in belonging to an organization whose culture is made up of these core values: Trust, Empowerment, and Collaboration. Our company promotes a positive culture while ensuring the safety and reliability of our nation's naval nuclear reactors, and training the Sailors who operate those reactors in the U.S. Navy's submarines and aircraft carrier Fleets.

Job Description

The Digital Strategic Development unit is seeking a highly motivated Data Scientist to join the Digital Strategic Development team. This team is responsible for leading the development and deployment of innovative solutions for existing and future instrumentation and control (I&C) systems on US Navy aircraft carriers and submarines. Specific areas of interest include incorporating artificial intelligence and machine learning, model-based engineering, and automation into existing processes.

  • Implement innovative, data driven solutions to improve development of I&C systems
  • Support the integration of AI/ML models into software applications and processes
  • Consult on AI/ML use case best practices and future needs
  • Support preparation of justifications, specifications, and plans to support project execution, including procurement activities
  • Apply new analysis methods, technologies, and/or concepts
  • Develop process controls and procedures
  • Assume the coordination responsibilities for assigned technical projects
Required Combination of Knowledge and Skill

Bachelors degree from an accredited college or university in a related engineering or science field; or Masters degree from an accredited college or university in a related engineering or science field.

Preferred Skills
  • Preffered degrees of Data Science or Computer Engineering areas
  • Programming experience in Python and/or C++
  • Working knowledge of on-premises solutions
  • Experience with agentic LLM frameworks and MCP servers for integrating AI agents.
  • Experience applying AI/ML capabilities to improve existing processes, weighing potential risks and mitigations
  • Experience building or maintaining CI/CD pipelines
  • Experience using large language models and other AI applications
  • Working knowledge of DevSecOps principles
  • Working knowledge of cybersecurity principles, with a preference to applying cybersecurity to AI/ML
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
  • Experience with technical writing
Compensation and Benefits
  • Health, Dental, Vision & Voluntary Benefits
  • Disability, Life & Accident Insurance
  • 401(k) Savings program & Capital Accumulation Plan
  • Personal & Medical Time Off
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Flexible Work Schedules
  • Tuition Assistance for Eligible Employees
  • Student Debt Benefit Personal Time Off Sell Program
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Wellness Program
  • Visit us online to view all NNL benefits!
Pay Range

$70,900.00 - $108,500.00 annually
Salary information provided is a general guideline only. Annual salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.

The Naval Nuclear Laboratory is operated for the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) by Fluor Marine Propulsion, LLC (FMP), a wholly owned subsidiary of Fluor Corporation. Naval Nuclear Laboratory personnel are FMP employees who work at four DOE facilities: Bettis Atomic Power Laboratory, Knolls Atomic Power Laboratory, Kenneth A. Kesselring Site, and Naval Reactors Facility, and at the U.S. Department of Defense-owned Nuclear Power Training Unit-Charleston. FMP employees also have an established presence at numerous shipyards and vendor locations. For nearly 70 years, the Naval Nuclear Laboratory has developed advanced nuclear propulsion technology, provided technical support, and trained world-class nuclear operators to ensure the safe and reliable operation of our nation's submarine and aircraft carrier Fleets. The Naval Nuclear Laboratory is a national asset solely dedicated to the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program. We rely on the dedication and innovation of our nearly 8000 engineers, scientists, technicians, and support personnel.

All candidates must be U.S. citizens. Applicants selected will be subject to a Federal background investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified matter. FMP is a government contractor and maintains a drug free workplace and workforce. All candidates must be able to pass a drug test in compliance with FMP company policy and 10 CFR 707. Marijuana is a Federal Schedule I controlled substance and illegal under Federal Law. Therefore, FMP is required to test for marijuana.

Fluor Marine Propulsion, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/vets. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, sex, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other criteria protected by federal, state, or local law.

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