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Entry Level Network Security Engineer Jobs in California

Bridge Tech

Network Security Engineer

San Francisco, CA

$123K - $168K/yr

Strong TIER 2-3 Network Security Engineer who can assist with Fine tuning QRadar, WAF's, and /or has experience with Sourcefire. Tuning and troubleshooting QRadar to deliver optimal performance in ...

Bridge Tech

Network Security Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$123K - $168K/yr

Company Description Strong TIER 2-3 Network Security Engineer who can assist with Fine tuning QRadar, WAF's, and /or has experience with Sourcefire. Tuning and troubleshooting QRadar to deliver ...

Lightning AI

Network Security Engineer

San Francisco, CA · Hybrid

$123K - $168K/yr

What We're Looking For We're looking for a Network Security Engineer to design, implement, and maintain secure network infrastructure across Lightning AI's platform. In this role, you'll take ...

Lightning AI

Network Security Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$180K - $220K/yr

What We're Looking For We're looking for a Network Security Engineer to design, implement, and maintain secure network infrastructure across Lightning AI's platform. In this role, you'll take ...

Lightning AI

Network Security Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$180K - $220K/yr

What We're Looking For We're looking for a Network Security Engineer to design, implement, and maintain secure network infrastructure across Lightning AI's platform. In this role, you'll take ...

Vibotek LLC

Network Security Engineer

Rancho Cordova, CA · On-site

$111K - $152K/yr

This work supports improved security and controlled network connectivity across the client and its external partners. Responsibilities: * Review approximately 80 existing site-to-site IPsec VPN ...

Ask IT consulting

Network Security Engineer (W2)

Oakland, CA · On-site

$120K - $164K/yr

One or more security certifications like GSEC, CEH, CCNA Security, CCNP Security, PNCSE etc. will be an added advantage. Excellent communication skills and ability to document and explain technical ...

Fluidstack

Security Engineer, Network

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$140 - $200/hr

You've partnered with network engineering without becoming the department of no. * Bonus: OT and ICs security. Data center or cloud provider environments. BGP and routing security. Zeek or Suricata.

Noblesoft Technologies

Security Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

Security Engineer Location: Sunnyvale, CA (Hybrid 3 days On-Site and 2 days Remote) We are seeking ... Network Solution Guidance -- Guide business teams toward optimal network solutions while clearly ...

Fluidstack

Network Engineer, Security

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$140 - $190/hr

You've partnered with network engineering without becoming the department of no. * Bonus: OT and ICs security. Data center or cloud provider environments. BGP and routing security. Zeek or Suricata.

Hive

Security Engineer

San Francisco, CA

$100K - $180K/yr

The company empowers developers with a portfolio of best-in-class, pre-trained AI models, serving ... Experience with network security and networking technologies and with system, security, and network ...

Hive

Security Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$100K - $180K/yr

The company empowers developers with a portfolio of best-in-class, pre-trained AI models, serving ... Experience with network security and networking technologies and with system, security, and network ...

Vast.ai Inc.

Security Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$150 - $210/hr

We seek engineers with strong intrinsic drive, a true passion for advancing the state of the art, ... Network and Application Security : Strong background in network security, application security, and ...

Vast.ai

Security Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$140 - $210/hr

We seek engineers with strong intrinsic drive, a true passion for advancing the state of the art, ... Network and Application Security : Strong background in network security, application security, and ...

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All JobsNetwork Security Engineer JobsEntry Level Network Security Engineer JobsEntry Level Network Security Engineer Jobs in California

Entry Level Network Security Engineer information

See California salary details

$20.7K

$123.3K

$164.8K

How much do entry level network security engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level network security engineer in California is $123,312.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $103,100.00 and $141,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level network security engineer?

To thrive as an Entry Level Network Security Engineer, you need a solid understanding of networking fundamentals, cybersecurity principles, and a relevant degree or certification such as CompTIA Security+ or Cisco CCNA. Familiarity with firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems, and security information and event management (SIEM) tools is typically required. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and strong problem-solving abilities are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies are essential for identifying vulnerabilities, mitigating security risks, and maintaining a robust network defense.

What does an entry level network security engineer do?

An Entry Level Network Security Engineer is responsible for helping to protect an organization’s computer networks and systems from cyber threats. They assist with monitoring network activity, identifying vulnerabilities, and implementing security measures such as firewalls and intrusion detection systems. Their duties often include configuring security software, responding to incidents, and supporting senior engineers with risk assessments. This role is ideal for those who are knowledgeable in networking basics and have a strong interest in cybersecurity.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level network security engineers during their first year on the job?

Entry level network security engineers often face challenges such as quickly adapting to a fast-paced environment where new threats and vulnerabilities emerge regularly. They may also need to familiarize themselves with a variety of security tools and protocols, as well as company-specific network architectures. Collaborating effectively with more experienced team members and communicating technical information to non-technical colleagues can take time to master. However, these challenges are great learning opportunities and help build a strong foundation for career growth.

What is the difference between Entry Level Network Security Engineer vs Network Security Analyst?

AspectEntry Level Network Security EngineerNetwork Security Analyst
CertificationsCompTIA Security+, Cisco CCNA SecurityCompTIA Security+, CISSP (entry-level roles may not require CISSP)
Work EnvironmentDesigning, implementing security measures, and supporting network infrastructureMonitoring, analyzing security threats, and incident response
Employer & Industry UsageIT departments, cybersecurity firms, telecom companiesFinancial institutions, government agencies, tech companies

While both roles focus on cybersecurity, an Entry Level Network Security Engineer primarily works on designing and implementing security solutions, whereas a Network Security Analyst monitors and analyzes security threats. The roles often overlap in certifications and work environments, but their core responsibilities differ, making each essential in a comprehensive security strategy.

What are the most commonly searched types of Network Security Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Network Security Engineer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Network Security Engineer jobs in California?

For Entry Level Network Security Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Network Security Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Network Security Engineer jobs in California are:

Entry Level Network Security Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Network Security Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $123,312 per year, or $59.3 per hour.

Network Security Engineer

Bridge Tech

San Francisco, CA

$123K - $168K/yr

Contractor

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Job Description

Strong TIER 2-3 Network Security Engineer who can assist with Fine tuning QRadar, WAF's, and /or has experience with Sourcefire.
Tuning and troubleshooting QRadar to deliver optimal performance in high volume enterprise customer environments
Configuring and troubleshooting network and security devices, various operating systems, and applications such as web, mail and database services
Develop / Tune Anomaly, Behavioral and Threshold Rules to identify unusual events in the environment

Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

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