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Entry Level Network Security Engineer Jobs in Virginia

HDR

Platform Security Engineer 1

Vienna, VA · On-site

They are seeking a Platform Security Engineer 1 to implement and maintain security measures ... Preferred : • Exposure to VMware NSX, vDefend, or virtual networking/security concepts. • ...

Amazon

Security Engineer III - AMZ25957.4

Arlington, VA · On-site

$178K - $226K/yr

Must have 1 year of experience involving each of the following: (1) Security engineering and network technologies (PCAP or Netflow), Operating Systems and network security, common attack patterns and ...

Maximus

Junior Security Engineer

VA · On-site +1

The Junior Security Engineer supports 24x7 enterprise cybersecurity operations by monitoring ... network/security infrastructure. Job-Specific Minimum Requirements: - 1+ years of experience in ...

Robert Half

Network Engineer

Hampton, VA · On-site

$55.41 - $64.16/hr

Position Overview We are seeking a hands-on Network Engineer with strong expertise in firewall ... Monitor network traffic and security alerts; investigate and remediate potential threats * Perform ...

Scalence L.L.C.

Network Operations

Mclean, VA · On-site

$105K - $144K/yr

C. is seeking a skilled engineer to join their Network Operations team. This role involves ... Responsibilities : • Analyze, design, and develop security solutions with Cybersecurity ...

Lateral Insights LLC

Network Engineer

Great Falls, VA · Hybrid

Position Overview Our client is seeking a Network Engineer II to join its Infrastructure and Security team. This role will support the administration, maintenance, and optimization of network, server ...

Appian Corporation

Security Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

We are seeking an Information Security Engineer to secure and automate our infrastructure and code ... Solid understanding of network fundamentals and internet protocols (TCP/IP networking and network ...

Entelligence

Palo Alto NGFW Consultant

Reston, VA · On-site

Entelligence is seeking a cleared Network Security Engineer to support their client. The role involves providing technical support, managing support cases, and ensuring the security of client ...

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All JobsEntry Level Network Security Engineer JobsEntry Level Network Security Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Entry Level Network Security Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$20.8K

$123.9K

$165.6K

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

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level network security engineer in Virginia is $123,877.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $103,600.00 and $141,800.00 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, and why are they important?

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 Virginia? The most popular types of Network Security Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Network Security Engineer jobs in Virginia? For Entry Level Network Security Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Network Security Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Network Security Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Network Security Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level Network Security Engineer job openings:
Entry Level Network Security Engineer jobs near you
Platform Security Engineer 1

Platform Security Engineer 1

HDR

Vienna, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Implement and maintain vDefend distributed firewall rules and basic micro-segmentation policies within established design patterns.

  • Configure and maintain NSX security groups, tags, and policy objects for standard workloads.

  • Participate in incident response and operational support for platform security issues.

HDR rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 55 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 357 rated engineering

Job description

Job Summary:
HDR is a company focused on creating a welcoming environment for its employee-owners. They are seeking a Platform Security Engineer 1 to implement and maintain security measures, support configuration tasks, and participate in incident response for platform security issues.
Responsibilities:
• Implement and maintain vDefend distributed firewall rules and basic micro-segmentation policies within established design patterns.
• Configure and maintain NSX security groups, tags, and policy objects for standard workloads.
• Support Identity Broker configuration, federation trust setup, and basic role/access mappings.
• Perform routine security hardening tasks for VCF components including vSphere, NSX, and SDDC Manager.
• Assist with security configuration reviews, vulnerability remediation, and evidence collection for compliance checks.
• Translate approved cybersecurity requirements into repeatable platform control changes with guidance from senior engineers.
• Document security configurations, standard operating procedures, and implementation runbooks.
• Participate in incident response and operational support for platform security issues.
Qualifications:
Required:
• Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Cybersecurity, Computer Science, or related field; or equivalent practical experience.
• Minimum 1 year of experience in infrastructure, systems, networking, or security engineering.
• Foundational knowledge of infrastructure security concepts, firewalls, IAM, and virtualization.
• Hands-on experience with VMware vSphere administration or support.
• Familiarity with basic security frameworks such as CIS or NIST.
• Experience working with change management and technical documentation.
Preferred:
• Exposure to VMware NSX, vDefend, or virtual networking/security concepts.
• Exposure to zero trust, segmentation, or policy-based security models.
• Familiarity with Azure security fundamentals or cloud IAM concepts.
• Security+, VMware certification, or equivalent foundational certification.
• Exposure to scripting or automation using PowerShell, PowerCLI, or Python.
Company:
HDR is an employee-owned design firm specializing in engineering, architecture, environmental and construction services. We’re ranked No. Founded in 1917, the company is headquartered in Omaha, USA, with a team of 10001+ employees. The company is currently Late Stage.

What HDR employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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About HDR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At HDR, we specialize in engineering, architecture, environmental and construction services. While we are most well-known for adding beauty and structure to communities through high-performance buildings and smart infrastructure, we provide much more than that. We create an unshakable foundation for progress because our multidisciplinary teams also include scientists, economists, builders, analysts and artists.

Industry

Specialized design services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Omaha, NE, US

Year founded

1917

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