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Entry Level Network Security Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Booz Allen Hamilton

Network Engineer

Norfolk, VA

$52K - $108K/yr

DoD 8570 Certification, such as Security+ Certification * Aruba Certified Mobility Associate (ACMA), Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), or CompTIA Network+ Certification Clearance: Applicants ...

Booz Allen Hamilton, Inc.

Network Engineer

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$52K - $108K/yr

DoD 8570 Certification, such as Security+ Certification * Aruba Certified Mobility Associate (ACMA), Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), or CompTIA Network+ Certification Clearance: Applicants ...

BayNova LLC

Junior Network Engineer

Alexandria, VA · On-site

Perform routine audits of network access control lists (ACLs) and security group rules to ensure compliance with organizational policies. * Collaborate with cloud engineers to support hybrid network ...

BayNova LLC

Junior Network Engineer

Alexandria, VA · On-site

Perform routine audits of network access control lists (ACLs) and security group rules to ensure compliance with organizational policies. * Collaborate with cloud engineers to support hybrid network ...

Apex Systems

Network Engineer

Mechanicsville, VA · Hybrid

Network Engineer Location: Hybrid (Onsite / Remote) - Richmond, VA Area Position Overview A major ... Configure and support network equipment, firewalls, and security controls (ACLs, IDS/IPS) * Serve ...

E*Pro, Inc.

Network Administrator/ Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

Network Security Administrator/Engineer Location : Mclean,VA Type : Fulltime Permanent Work Status : US Citizen / GC / EAD (GC) Required Skills: Perform administration tasks in managing Checkpoint ...

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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 Jun 10, 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.

Is 25 too late for cyber security?

Entry level network security engineer roles are open to individuals of various ages, including those starting a career at 25 or later. Success in cybersecurity often depends on acquiring relevant skills, certifications like CompTIA Security+ or CISSP, and hands-on experience, regardless of age. Many professionals enter the field after changing careers or gaining new technical knowledge at different stages of life.

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
Infographic showing various Entry Level Network Security Engineer job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $123,877 per year, or $59.6 per hour.

Network Engineer/Analyst with Security Clearance

Cornerstone Defense

Herndon, VA

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Title: Network Engineer/Analyst Location: Herndon, VA Clearance: Active TS/SCI w/ Polygraph needed to apply * Company Overview: Cornerstone Defense is the Employer of Choice within the Intelligence, Defense, and Space communities of the U.S. Government. Realizing early on that our most prized assets are our employees, we continually focus our attention on improving the overall work/life experience they have supporting the mission.

Our Team is pushed every day to use their industry leading knowledge to provide end-to-end solutions to combat our nation's toughest and most secure problems. If you are looking for a place to not only be professionally challenged, but encouraged and supported by a company that cares, don't look any further than Cornerstone Defense. Benefits Overview : Cornerstone Defense offers a very comprehensive benefits package including, but not limited to: Medical, Dental and Vision Plans Generous PTO Policy 401(k) HSA and FSA options Life and Disability Insurance Tuition Reimbursement and Training Perks at Work Discount Program Referral Program Leads Generation Program CollegeAmerica 529 Fitness Reimbursement Program Travel Assistance Norton Lifelock Benefit Solutions Life Planning Financial & Legal Services We are seeking a Cyber Network Defense Analyst in Herndon, VA.

As a Cyber Network Defense Analyst on our team, you will use your expertise in Host Based Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS), Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS) and specialized network defense to provide innovative and creative solutions to challenging cyber security problems. Manage and administer the tuning of rules, signatures, and custom content for CND applications and systems. Identify potential conflicts with implementation of any CND tools within the enterprise and develop recommendations to remediate these conflicts.

You will utilize the latest cyber tools available and assist with creating new ones while allowing you to advance the nations information security posture. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to: Provide malicious code detection, intrusion detection, and information security tool development and integration. Utilize forensic analysis to identify malware, misuse, and/or unauthorized activity.

Investigate and report on virus and malware alerts or incidents to determine root cause, entry point of code and damage risk. Analyze all data sources, including Internet, Intelligence Community (IC) reporting, security events, firewall logs, and other data sources to identify malware, misuse, unauthorized activity or other cyber security related concerns. * Track intelligence using open source and classified sources to identify malicious code threats and provide solutions to counteract that threat.

Create, edit, and manage signatures, custom rules and filters for specialized network defense systems including but not limited to, Network and host-based IDS, IPS, firewalls and web application firewalls, Security Orchestration, Automation and Response (SOAR), Proxy, and Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) systems Prepare data analytics and reporting. Ability to demonstrate interpersonal, organizational, writing, communications, and briefing skills Ability to effectively use analytical and problem-solving skills Provide logical use case development. Provide and track requirements to engineering partners.

  • Identify gaps in visibility or coverage of cyber defense systems.

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