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Director Software Security information

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$37K

$104.5K

$167K

How much do director software security jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 10, 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 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.

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 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.
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What cities are hiring for Director Software Security jobs? Cities with the most Director Software Security job openings:
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Director Software Security jobs near you
Infographic showing various Director Software Security job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% 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 Design Systems Inc.

San Jose, CA

$164K - $305K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

At Cadence, we hire and develop leaders and innovators who want to make an impact on the world of technology.

Cadence InfoSec is seeking a Director of Software Security to lead the strategy, architecture, and execution of secure software development practices across the enterprise. This role will drive DevSecOps transformation, ensure compliance with regulatory frameworks (including CMMC), and embed security throughout the software lifecycle (SDLC).

Key Responsibilities

DevSecOps Strategy & Leadership

  • 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

Secure Software Architecture

  • 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

Regulatory Compliance & CMMC

  • 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)

Cloud & Platform Security

  • 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

Application Security Program

  • 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

Supply Chain & Software Integrity

  • Secure software supply chain (SBOM, dependency scanning)

  • Implement artifact signing, provenance, and integrity validation

Governance & Risk Management

  • 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

Leadership & Cross-Functional Influence

  • 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

Required Qualifications

  • 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 Qualifications

  • 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

Key Skills

  • DevSecOps Transformation

  • Secure Software Architecture

  • Regulatory Compliance (CMMC, NIST, ISO)

  • Application Security & Threat Modeling

  • Software Supply Chain Security (SBOM, SLSA)

  • Cloud & Container Security

  • Executive Communication & Strategy

The annual salary range for California is $164,500 to $305,500. You may also be eligible to receive incentive compensation: bonus, equity, and benefits. Sales positions generally offer a competitive On Target Earnings (OTE) incentive compensation structure. Please note that the salary range is a guideline and compensation may vary based on factors such as qualifications, skill level, competencies and work location. Our benefits programs include: paid vacation and paid holidays, 401(k) plan with employer match, employee stock purchase plan, a variety of medical, dental and vision plan options, and more.

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