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Doctorate In Cybersecurity Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Senior Optical Engineer

El Cajon, CA · On-site

$131K - $237K/yr

... cybersecurity, logistics, training, and intelligence analysis and operations support. Our team is ... May possess a Doctorate in a relevant technical domain. * Infrared and Visible lens design using ...

Optical Engineer

National City, CA · On-site

$107K - $195K/yr

May possess a Doctorate in technical domain. * US citizenship with the ability to obtain and ... cybersecurity, logistics, training, and intelligence analysis and operations support. Our team is ...

New

Optical Engineer

Cardiff By The Sea, CA · On-site

$107K - $195K/yr

May possess a Doctorate in technical domain. * US citizenship with the ability to obtain and ... cybersecurity, logistics, training, and intelligence analysis and operations support. Our team is ...

New

Optical Engineer

Rancho Santa Fe, CA · On-site

$107K - $195K/yr

May possess a Doctorate in technical domain. * US citizenship with the ability to obtain and ... cybersecurity, logistics, training, and intelligence analysis and operations support. Our team is ...

New

Optical Engineer

Chula Vista, CA · On-site

$107K - $195K/yr

May possess a Doctorate in technical domain. * US citizenship with the ability to obtain and ... cybersecurity, logistics, training, and intelligence analysis and operations support. Our team is ...

New

Optical Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$107K - $195K/yr

May possess a Doctorate in technical domain. * US citizenship with the ability to obtain and ... cybersecurity, logistics, training, and intelligence analysis and operations support. Our team is ...

Optical Engineer

El Cajon, CA · On-site

$107K - $195K/yr

May possess a Doctorate in technical domain. * US citizenship with the ability to obtain and ... cybersecurity, logistics, training, and intelligence analysis and operations support. Our team is ...

New

Optical Engineer

La Jolla, CA · On-site

$107K - $195K/yr

May possess a Doctorate in technical domain. * US citizenship with the ability to obtain and ... cybersecurity, logistics, training, and intelligence analysis and operations support. Our team is ...

New

Product Counsel

San Francisco, CA · On-site +1

$175K - $205K/yr

Advise on the legal and regulatory frameworks relevant to global cybersecurity and SaaS products ... Juris doctorate from an accredited law school; admitted to at least one state bar in the U.S.

... cybersecurity, and commercial and technology-related issues that arise for a commercial company ... In this role, you will apply advanced knowledge of legal risk management, public-sector decision ...

Be Seen First

RF Microwave Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$110 - $115/hr

Bachelor, Master or Doctorate of Science degree from an accredited course of study, in engineering ... Cybersecurity Subject Matter Experts (SMEs), delivering mission-critical solutions across all 50 U.

Showing results 21-40

Doctorate In Cybersecurity information

See California salary details

$44.4K

$92K

$143.1K

How much do doctorate in cybersecurity jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for doctorate in cybersecurity in California is $91,950.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,500.00 and $110,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a doctorate in cybersecurity?

A Doctorate in Cybersecurity is the highest academic degree focused on advanced research and leadership in information security. This program typically prepares graduates for roles in academia, government, and industry by equipping them with expertise in areas such as cyber defense, risk management, cryptography, and policy development. Students often conduct original research, contribute to scholarly publications, and address complex cybersecurity challenges. The degree may be offered as a PhD or a Doctor of Science (DSc) and usually requires several years of study beyond a master's degree.

What types of research or projects can I expect to work on during a doctorate in cybersecurity program?

During a Doctorate in Cybersecurity program, you will typically engage in advanced research projects that address emerging threats, develop innovative defense mechanisms, or enhance existing cybersecurity protocols. Common research areas include cryptography, network security, cyber-physical systems, privacy preservation, and threat intelligence. You may also collaborate with industry partners, government agencies, or interdisciplinary teams to solve real-world cybersecurity challenges. The program encourages independent inquiry, but you will also benefit from faculty mentorship and peer collaboration, helping you build a strong professional network.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive with a doctorate in cybersecurity, and why are they important?

To thrive with a Doctorate in Cybersecurity, you need advanced knowledge of information security principles, research methodologies, and a strong academic background, typically demonstrated by a PhD or equivalent degree. Expertise in technical tools such as penetration testing suites, security information and event management (SIEM) systems, and familiarity with certifications like CISSP or CISM is often expected. Excellent analytical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills set individuals apart in this field. These skills are crucial for leading innovative research, developing effective security strategies, and influencing policy in an ever-evolving threat landscape.

What is the difference between Doctorate In Cybersecurity vs Cybersecurity Analyst?

AspectDoctorate In CybersecurityCybersecurity Analyst
Required CredentialsDoctorate degree, specialized researchBachelor's or master's degree, certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentAcademic, research, or advanced R&D rolesCorporate, government, or security operations centers
Industry UsageResearch institutions, universities, advanced cybersecurity rolesSecurity monitoring, threat analysis, incident response

While a Doctorate In Cybersecurity focuses on research, teaching, and advanced theoretical knowledge, a Cybersecurity Analyst applies practical skills to protect organizations from cyber threats. The doctorate prepares individuals for academic or high-level research roles, whereas analysts work directly in security operations.

Is a Doctorate in Cybersecurity worth it?

A Doctorate in Cybersecurity can enhance expertise and open opportunities in research, academia, and advanced cybersecurity roles. However, it requires significant time and investment, and many positions in the field value industry experience and certifications like CISSP or CISA alongside practical skills. Its worth depends on career goals and the specific demands of the desired job market.

What can I do with a Doctorate in Cybersecurity?

A Doctorate in Cybersecurity prepares individuals for advanced roles such as cybersecurity researcher, university professor, or senior security analyst. Graduates often engage in developing new security protocols, conducting research, or leading cybersecurity teams, and may pursue certifications like CISSP or CISA to enhance their qualifications.

What are popular job titles related to Doctorate In Cybersecurity jobs in California?

For Doctorate In Cybersecurity jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Doctorate In Cybersecurity jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Doctorate In Cybersecurity jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Doctorate In Cybersecurity jobs?

Cities in California with the most Doctorate In Cybersecurity job openings:

Infographic showing various Doctorate In Cybersecurity job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,950 per year, or $44.2 per hour.

Senior Optical Engineer

Leidos

El Cajon, CA • On-site

$131K - $237K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


Leidos rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 152 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

79th of 495 rated business services


Job description

Description

Looking for an opportunity to make an impact?

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers’ success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainable. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community. Our Mission, Vision, and Values guide the way we do business.

Are you ready for your next career challenge?

Leidos Defense provides a diverse portfolio of systems, solutions, and services covering land, sea, air, space, and cyberspace for customers worldwide. Solutions for Defense include enterprise and mission IT, large-scale intelligence systems, command and control, geospatial and data analytics, cybersecurity, logistics, training, and intelligence analysis and operations support. Our team is solving the world’s toughest security challenges for customers with “can’t fail” missions.

Leidos Defense Space Business Area is seeking a Senior Optical Engineer to support the Emerging Space Systems Division in developing optical payload systems for the Space Force, including missions such as Overhead Persistent Infrared (OPIR), Space Control, and Space-Based Sensing. Leidos programs are funded by multiple U.S. government sponsors as well as internal research and development (IR&D) efforts. The optical engineer will also contribute to responses for government-issued proposals related to optical imaging systems operating in the visible and infrared spectrum. Upon contract award, responsibilities include system conceptualization, optical design, performance analysis, payload construction, testing, and integration.

The candidate should be able to conceptualize optical designs and oversee their mechanical implementation into qualified flight instruments, with demonstrated proficiency in mechanical modeling for proposal and concept development. The candidate should understand radiometric requirements, optical performance specifications, and payload hardware development to design optical systems using Zemax. A strong understanding of aberration theory and its impact on system performance is required.

The candidate should also be proficient in optical tolerancing, athermalization analysis, and lens manufacturing methods and drawing standards. Experience in stray light control, Structural Thermal Optical Performance (STOP) analysis, and laboratory testing and evaluation is required. Additionally, knowledge of infrared lens design and reflective optical system design is essential.

Basic Qualifications

  • Bachelor of Science degree with 12+ years of prior relevant experience or Master of Science with 10+ years of prior relevant experience. May possess a Doctorate in a relevant technical domain.

  • Infrared and Visible lens design using Zemax experience required.

  • Knowledge of how electro-optical systems are designed, specified, developed, manufactured, and tested including Focal Plane Arrays, bandpass filter performance, AR coating, and Lyot stop implementation.

  • Experience in prototype and production development, including testing and demonstrations.

  • Knowledge and experience in laboratory alignment, testing, and evaluation.

  • Working knowledge of MS Office applications, MatLab, and Solidworks.

  • Effective communication, coordination, and customer engagement skills.

  • Ability to work in a fast paced, dynamic, and team environment.

  • Minimum of an active SECRET security clearance with the ability to obtain a TS/SCI clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Stray light performance analysis using FRED

  • Bandpass and AR coating development

  • Radiometric modeling

  • Manufacturing and assembly process knowledge

If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo — because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 — and moving faster than anyone else dares.

Original Posting:May 29, 2026

For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.

Pay Range:Pay Range $131,300.00 - $237,350.00

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.

About Leidos

Leidos is an industry and technology leader serving government and commercial customers with smarter, more efficient digital and mission innovations. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, with 47,000 global employees, Leidos reported annual revenues of approximately $16.7 billion for the fiscal year ended January 3, 2025. For more information, visit www.Leidos.com.

Pay and Benefits

Pay and benefits are fundamental to any career decision. That's why we craft compensation packages that reflect the importance of the work we do for our customers. Employment benefits include competitive compensation, Health and Wellness programs, Income Protection, Paid Leave and Retirement. More details are available at www.leidos.com/careers/pay-benefits.

Securing Your Data

Beware of fake employment opportunities using Leidos’ name. Leidos will never ask you to provide payment-related information during any part of the employment application process (i.e., ask you for money), nor will Leidos ever advance money as part of the hiring process (i.e., send you a check or money order before doing any work). Further, Leidos will only communicate with you through emails that are generated by the Leidos.com automated system – never from free commercial services (e.g., Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail) or via WhatsApp, Telegram, etc. If you received an email purporting to be from Leidos that asks for payment-related information or any other personal information (e.g., about you or your previous employer), and you are concerned about its legitimacy, please make us aware immediately by emailing us at LeidosCareersFraud@leidos.com.

If you believe you are the victim of a scam, contact your local law enforcement and report the incident to the U.S. Federal Trade Commission.

Commitment to Non-Discrimination

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, ethnicity, age, national origin, citizenship, religion, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy, family structure, marital status, ancestry, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law. Leidos will also consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with relevant laws.


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About Leidos

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainable practices. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Reston, VA, US

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