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Entry Level Network Security Engineer Jobs in California

Security Engineer

Los Angeles, CA Β· On-site

$145K - $185K/yr

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 ...

Security Engineer

Hawthorne, CA Β· On-site +1

$150K - $180K/yr

SECURITY ENGINEER SpaceX is looking for a Security Engineer to join our Information Security ... Network security systems and the backend infrastructure that powers such services. * Application ...

Security Engineer

Hawthorne, CA Β· On-site

$150K - $180K/yr

SECURITY ENGINEER SpaceX is looking for a Security Engineer to join our Information Security ... Network security systems and the backend infrastructure that powers such services. * Application ...

Security Engineer

Hawthorne, CA Β· On-site

$150K - $180K/yr

SECURITY ENGINEER SpaceX is looking for a Security Engineer to join our Information Security ... Network security systems and the backend infrastructure that powers such services. * Application ...

The network is stewarded by the DATA Foundation, which supports its long-term development ... We are looking for a hands-on Security Engineer to own and strengthen security across PIP Labs ...

New

The network is stewarded by the DATA Foundation, which supports its long-term development ... We are looking for a hands-on Security Engineer to own and strengthen security across PIP Labs ...

The network is stewarded by the DATA Foundation, which supports its long-term development ... We are looking for a hands-on Security Engineer to own and strengthen security across PIP Labs ...

We are looking for a Security Engineer to join our MDR team as the founding U.S. member of the ... Familiarity with networking fundamentals and scripting (Python/Bash). * Strong communication and ...

Security Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA Β· On-site

$89K - $140K/yr

... IT Engineer to help us ensure 24x7 support. In this critical role you will be based in our ... This is an excellent opportunity to join a network security company and utilize the latest systems ...

Security Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA Β· On-site

$89K - $140K/yr

... IT Engineer to help us ensure 24x7 support. In this critical role you will be based in our ... This is an excellent opportunity to join a network security company and utilize the latest systems ...

Security Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA Β· On-site

$89K - $140K/yr

... IT Engineer to help us ensure 24x7 support. In this critical role you will be based in our ... This is an excellent opportunity to join a network security company and utilize the latest systems ...

Showing results 21-40

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 Sep 11, 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 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 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 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:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Network Security Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 4% 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.

Security Engineer (Embedded & Networking)

El Segundo, CA β€’ On-site

Other

Posted 16 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Design, build, and maintain security solutions for company systems, networks, and data.

  • Develop and automate identity, authentication, and network security services, including cloud security policies.

  • Collaborate with teams to identify threats, improve security tools, and ensure scalable, maintainable, and secure implementations.


Job description

the company was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today the company is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal ofenabling human life on Mars.

SECURITY ENGINEER (EMBEDDED & NETWORKING)

the company is looking for a Security Engineer to join our Information Security department to help protect and drive the the company mission.

Information drives our business and we must protect the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of systems and processes across the enterprise. As a highly visible and dynamic organization, we must also value and guard against damage to our reputation and brand. It is paramount that we defend against loss of control or confidence in our systems, to guarantee the highest probability of success. This role will focus on the "behind the scenes" technologies that ensure our networks and systems are up to industry and the company standards of information security. It will also focus on providing high-criticality and high-risk services, with the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of those services in mind.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Design, build, and maintain technology solutions and systems that provide security for the company systems, networks, and data. This can include:

  • Authentication and identity services, including multi-factor solutions, network access control identity servers, and related authentication and authorization technologies.
  • Identity lifecycle management services and automation. Build and maintain scripts and automation that support the information security mission across the company, to be utilized by information security teammates and other partner organizations.
  • Network security systems and the backend infrastructure that powers such services.
  • Application level security controls (e.g. web application firewalls).
  • Cloud deployments security policy enforcement, centralized configuration management, monitoring, etc.
  • Serve as the subject matter expert (SME) for those solutions, maintaining documentation on them and advising others on their underlying technologies and operation.
  • Work with security and IT teams to identify threats and problem areas, using that feedback to further strengthen tools and technologies. Materialize this as improvements which result in stronger and safer software and application deployments across the company, measuring in decreased risk and prevalence of issues.
  • Create solutions that are scalable, repeatable, maintainable, and secure.
  • Work collaboratively with other teams, including individuals in information security, physical security, information technology, human resources, legal, software, and others.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor's degree in computer science or another STEM discipline; OR 2+ years of professional experience in security software development in lieu of a degree.
  • Experience with the Python programming language, GO, C#, C/C++, or Rust.
  • Experience designing and implementing security solutions for operating systems, distributed systems, or other enterprise/large-scale infrastructure.
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
  • Experience with secure code development practices.
  • Experience with Linux, Windows, and Mac system internals.
  • Strong knowledge of public key infrastructure (PKI) environments and related technologies.
  • Experience with SAML, OIDC, and OAuth.
  • Experience working with special purpose security hardware such as Trusted Platform Modules (TPMs) and Hardware Security Modules (HSMs).
  • Fundamental understanding of network protocols; including the TCP/IP stack as well as UDP based protocols.
  • Experienced in navigating large, complex, interactive systems.
  • Familiarity with developing web-based APIs, HTTP-RPC, and REST.
  • Familiarity with enterprise security controls and security best practices for Windows, Linux, and Mac systems.
  • Effective problem-solving skills, and ability to quickly determine root-causes of issues.
  • Familiarity with macOS and Windows code-signing and deployment of enterprise applications.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Must be willing to work extended hours and/or weekends as needed.
  • This role requires you to be onsite. Hybrid or remote work will not be considered.
  • Ability to pass Air Force background check for Cape Canaveral.
ITAR REQUIREMENTS:
  • To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. Β§ 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. Β§ 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.

the company is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with the company is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.

Applicants wishing to view a copy of the company’s Affiant Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out tohr@unitedstatesdigital.space.

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