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Director Software Security Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Cadence

Director of Software Security

San Jose, CA · On-site

Cadence is a technology company seeking a Director of Software Security to lead secure software development practices across the enterprise. This role involves driving DevSecOps transformation ...

ComplyAuto

Software Security Engineer

Washington, DC · Remote

$145K - $160K/yr

Software Security Engineer Salary: $145,000-160,000, based on experience Help Shape the Future of ... In this high-impact individual contributor role, you'll work closely with the Director of ...

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How much do director software security jobs pay per year?

As of May 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for director software security in the United States is $104,452.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,000.00 and $117,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Director of Software Security, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Director of Software Security, you need deep expertise in cybersecurity principles, secure software development, risk management, and typically a bachelor's or master's degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with security frameworks (like NIST or ISO 27001), secure coding tools, penetration testing platforms, and relevant certifications such as CISSP or CSSLP is highly valued. Strong leadership, strategic thinking, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for guiding teams and influencing stakeholders. These skills and qualities are essential to effectively protect organizational assets, ensure regulatory compliance, and drive a culture of security throughout the software development lifecycle.

What are the main challenges a Director of Software Security faces when aligning security initiatives with business objectives?

One of the key challenges for a Director of Software Security is balancing robust security measures with the need for agility and innovation in software development. This often requires close collaboration with engineering, product, and executive teams to ensure security protocols do not hinder business goals or time-to-market. Additionally, staying ahead of emerging threats while managing compliance requirements and resource constraints can be demanding. Effective communication and a strategic approach are essential for successfully integrating security into the organization's broader objectives.

What does a Director of Software Security do?

A Director of Software Security is responsible for developing, implementing, and overseeing strategies to protect an organization’s software systems from security threats. They manage security teams, set security policies, and ensure best practices are followed throughout the software development lifecycle. Their role also involves conducting risk assessments, responding to security incidents, and collaborating with other departments to ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations.

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

AspectDirector Software SecuritySecurity Manager
CredentialsTypically requires CISSP, CISM, or CISA certificationsOften holds CISSP or CISM certifications
Work EnvironmentStrategic leadership, overseeing security programs across multiple teamsOperational management, implementing security policies and procedures
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in large tech companies, finance, and healthcare sectorsCommon in various industries, including corporate and government sectors

The main difference is that the Director Software Security focuses on strategic planning and overseeing security initiatives at a high level, while the Security Manager handles day-to-day security operations and policy enforcement. Both roles require similar certifications but differ in scope and responsibilities.

More about Director Software Security jobs
What cities are hiring for Director Software Security jobs? Cities with the most Director Software Security job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Software Security jobs? The most popular types of Software Security jobs are:
What states have the most Director Software Security jobs? States with the most job openings for Director Software Security jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Director Software Security jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Director Software Security jobs are:
Director Software Security jobs near you
Infographic showing various Director Software Security job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,452 per year, or $50.2 per hour.
Director of Software Security

Director of Software Security

Cadence

San Jose, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
Cadence is a technology company seeking a Director of Software Security to lead secure software development practices across the enterprise. This role involves driving DevSecOps transformation, ensuring compliance with regulatory frameworks, and embedding security throughout the software lifecycle.
Responsibilities:
• Define and execute enterprise DevSecOps strategy across all development teams
• Integrate security controls into CI/CD pipelines (build, test, release)
• Establish “shift-left” security practices across the SDLC
• Drive adoption of secure coding, SAST, DAST, and SCA tools
• Define reference architectures for secure microservices, APIs, and cloud-native apps
• Establish security patterns for containers, Kubernetes, and serverless
• Lead threat modeling initiatives
• Ensure secure API design and zero trust principles
• Lead compliance initiatives for: Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC 2.0), NIST SP 800-171r2 /800-53, ISO 27001
• Ensure software systems meet federal, defense, and privacy regulations
• Coordinate audits, assessments, and continuous monitoring programs
• Implement controls for handling Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI)
• Secure DevOps pipelines across cloud platforms: Amazon AWS, Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud, IBMC cloud, Cadence software service and products
• Implement infrastructure-as-code (IaC) security scanning
• Define secrets management, identity, and access controls
• Build and scale AppSec program across all product lines
• Define vulnerability management lifecycle (discovery → remediation → validation)
• Establish bug bounty / responsible disclosure programs
• Integrate security into Agile and CI/CD workflows
• Secure software supply chain (SBOM, dependency scanning)
• Implement artifact signing, provenance, and integrity validation
• Define policies, standards, and secure development guidelines
• Establish KPIs: vulnerability remediation SLA, code coverage, pipeline security
• Align software security with enterprise risk management
• Report posture to executive leadership and board
• Lead teams of AppSec engineers, DevSecOps engineers, and architects
• Partner with Engineering, Product, Legal, and Compliance teams
• Build security champions program within development teams
• Influence engineering culture toward security ownership
Qualifications:
Required:
• 12–15+ years in cybersecurity, with strong focus on application security and DevSecOps
• 5+ years in leadership (manager/director level)
• Deep expertise in: Secure SDLC and DevSecOps pipelines, Cloud-native architectures and container security, Regulatory frameworks (CMMC, NIST, ISO)
• Experience in regulated industries (defense, government, healthcare, fintech)
Preferred:
• Hands-on experience with tools such as: SAST: Checkmarx, Veracode, DAST: Burp Suite, SCA: Snyk, Black Duck, CI/CD: Jenkins, GitHub Actions
• Familiarity with Kubernetes, Docker, and service mesh security
• Certifications: CISSP, CSSLP, CISM or CCSP
• Experience with Zero Trust and identity-first security
Company:
Cadence is a market leader in AI and digital twins, pioneering the application of computational software to accelerate innovation in the engineering design of silicon to systems. Founded in 1988, the company is headquartered in San Jose, USA, with a team of 10001+ employees. The company is currently Late Stage.

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