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Entry Level Cryptography Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

... cryptography principles -Experience with peer-to-peer networks -Knowledge of technical Ethereum Blockchain concepts -Knowledge of Blockchain architecture -Ability to obtain a security clearance -BA ...

Entry Level Cryptography information

See California salary details

$20.1K

$55.8K

$160.1K

How much do entry level cryptography jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level cryptography in California is $55,771.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,273.00 and $51,899.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is 30 too old for cyber security?

Entry level cryptography and cybersecurity roles do not have age restrictions, and individuals can start learning and transitioning into the field at any age. Success depends on acquiring relevant skills, certifications, and experience, regardless of age, making 30 a perfectly reasonable age to begin a career in cybersecurity.

Can I make $200 a year in cyber security?

Entry level cryptography roles in cybersecurity typically offer salaries well above $200 annually, with starting salaries often ranging from $50,000 to $70,000 depending on location and skills. Earning such a low amount suggests a misunderstanding, as even part-time or internship positions usually pay more, and building skills in encryption, security protocols, and certifications can lead to higher earnings over time.

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

AspectEntry Level CryptographyEntry Level Cybersecurity Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science, certifications like CompTIA Security+ or CISSP (entry-level)Bachelor's in Computer Science or related, certifications like CompTIA Security+ or Cisco CCNA (entry-level)
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, security teams, cryptography-focused projectsSecurity operations centers, IT departments, threat monitoring
Industry UsageFinancial institutions, government agencies, tech companiesAll industries with digital assets, including finance, healthcare, and retail

Entry Level Cryptography focuses on developing and analyzing encryption methods, while Entry Level Cybersecurity Analysts monitor and respond to security threats. Both roles require similar foundational certifications and often work within the same industry environments, but their core responsibilities differ: cryptography emphasizes encryption techniques, whereas cybersecurity analysts focus on threat detection and response.

What Are Entry-Level Cryptography Jobs?

Entry-level cryptography jobs focus on the encryption of data for security purposes. As a cryptographer, your duties focus on creating algorithms that can encode and decode information, such as financial data. The responsibilities of entry-level cryptology professionals often focus on algorithm creation or the development of a specific solution for a security system for a bank, agency, or government entity. You can also design or improve security systems that involve cryptography as a security system analyst or specialist. After you develop your algorithms, your responsibilities include running tests to ensure that the encryption and decryption work as desired.

What are entry level cryptography jobs?

Entry level cryptography jobs are positions designed for individuals who are new to the field of cryptography, often requiring a background in computer science, mathematics, or related disciplines. These roles typically involve assisting with the development, implementation, and testing of cryptographic algorithms and protocols to secure data. Responsibilities may include analyzing security systems, writing code, and researching new cryptographic techniques under the guidance of senior cryptographers. Such positions are commonly found in tech companies, government agencies, and cybersecurity firms.

Does the CIA hire cryptographers?

Yes, the CIA employs cryptographers and cybersecurity specialists to develop and analyze secure communication systems. These roles often require a background in cryptography, computer science, or related fields, along with security clearances and specialized training.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

Entry-level cryptography roles typically do not pay $10,000 a month without significant experience or specialized skills. High-paying jobs in cybersecurity or cryptography often require advanced knowledge, certifications, or a degree, though some freelance or consulting opportunities in related fields can reach that income level with expertise and a strong client base.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level cryptographers, and how can new hires overcome them?

Entry-level cryptographers often encounter challenges such as keeping up with rapidly evolving encryption technologies, understanding complex mathematical concepts, and integrating cryptographic solutions into existing systems. New hires can overcome these obstacles by actively seeking mentorship from experienced team members, participating in ongoing training, and regularly reviewing current research in the field. Collaboration with software engineers and security analysts is also crucial, as it helps bridge the gap between theory and real-world application.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Cryptography professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Cryptography professional, you need a solid understanding of mathematics (especially discrete math and number theory), computer science fundamentals, and a relevant degree such as computer science, mathematics, or electrical engineering. Familiarity with cryptographic tools, protocols, and programming languages like Python, C++, or Java, as well as knowledge of security standards and possibly certifications like Security+ or CEH, is beneficial. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong analytical thinking are valuable soft skills in this field. These skills are essential for designing, analyzing, and implementing secure systems that protect sensitive information in various digital environments.
What are the most commonly searched types of Cryptography jobs in California? The most popular types of Cryptography jobs in California are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Cryptography jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Cryptography jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Cryptography jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Cryptography job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Cryptography job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Internship, and 50% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,771 per year, or $26.8 per hour.
Blockchain Developer

Blockchain Developer

Punch Agency

San Francisco, CA

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago


Job description

Company Description

Punch is a full service digital agency based out of New York, Silicon Valley, LA, Boston, Stockholm and Phuket, Thailand. Here at Punch, we take pride in tackling our clients' most challenging tasks. Founded by a group of former Google Engineers and now with over 75 staff, Punch is now leading the way in creating new cutting-edge technology.

We're looking for innovative thinkers with a hunger to expand their knowledge!
We are building a more technical world.Go ahead and check out some of our work here: www.punch-agency.com


Job Description

Research, design, develop, and modify enterprise-wide systems and applications software. Plan system and development deployment and maintain responsibility for meeting software compliance standards. Evaluate the interface between hardware and software, operational requirements, and characteristics of the overall system. Document testing and maintenance of system corrections. Provide technical solutions to a wide range of difficult problems, including imaginative, though, practicable, and consistent with organizational objectives. Determine and develop approaches to solutions independently.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications:
-2+ years of experience with JavaScript development
-Experience in developing Smart Contracts with Solidity or a similar platform
-Experience with software development in a large enterprise Agile environment
-Experience with cryptography principles
-Experience with peer-to-peer networks
-Knowledge of technical Ethereum Blockchain concepts
-Knowledge of Blockchain architecture
-Ability to obtain a security clearance
-BA or BS degree required
Additional Qualifications:
-Experience with Hyperledger
-Experience with MS Azure
-Experience with AWS
-Ability to work with a small team taking on large responsibilities
-Ability to operate astutely in uncertain environments with authority and influence
-Ability to emphasize methodologies, modeling, and governance while remaining technologically and politically neutral
-Ability to articulate and persuade, display enthusiasm, and show a knack for excellent storytelling
-Ability to adapt and learn in fast-paced environment
-Possession of excellent oral and written communications skills to explain advanced concepts to team members, users, and clients
-Possession of excellent oral problem-solving skills to work independently and address ad-hoc challenges

Additional Information

We are a team of former Google Engineers and Designers based in Silicon Valley, New York and Phuket, Thailand.

All of our core engineers are paid in the $150,000 range or greater and we also provide our engineers the opportunity to work, all expenses paid, from our Phuket, Thailand office one month a year as a creative outlet to work and enjoy life to the fullest.

In this role you will work with some of the most exciting projects in the industry today with a team of fast moving engineers and designers who have a passion for building disruptive products.