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Entry Level Security Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC

Carahsoft Technology Corp

Apply for Position

Reston, VA · On-site

$40K - $50K/yr

BACK TO CAREERS Security Operations Specialist Carahsoft seeks an entry level Security Operations ... Knowledge of phishing techniques, email security, and social engineering tactics. * Knowledge of ...

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All JobsSecurity Engineer JobsEntry Level Security Engineer JobsEntry Level Security Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC

Entry Level Security Engineer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$69.6K

$173K

$232.7K

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

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level security engineer in Washington, DC is $172,967.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $161,900.00 and $179,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Security Engineer, you need a foundational understanding of cybersecurity principles, networking, and system administration, often supported by a relevant degree or certifications like CompTIA Security+ or Cisco's CCNA. Familiarity with security tools such as SIEM platforms, vulnerability scanners, and firewalls is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help in identifying threats and collaborating with teams. These abilities are crucial to effectively protect organizational assets, respond to incidents, and support a secure IT environment.

What are Entry Level Security Engineers?

Entry Level Security Engineers are professionals who begin their careers in the field of cybersecurity, focusing on protecting an organization's computer systems and networks from security threats. They assist in monitoring security systems, identifying vulnerabilities, and implementing security measures under the guidance of senior engineers. Their responsibilities may include conducting risk assessments, responding to security incidents, and maintaining security tools and software. This role is ideal for individuals with foundational IT knowledge and a keen interest in cybersecurity.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level security engineers in their first year, and how can they overcome them?

Entry level security engineers often encounter challenges such as keeping up with rapidly evolving security threats, learning to use a variety of security tools, and effectively communicating risks to non-technical colleagues. To overcome these, it's important to continually update your knowledge through training, seek mentorship from senior team members, and actively participate in team meetings to improve your communication skills. Building a habit of documenting your learning and asking questions when in doubt can also help you adapt more quickly to the fast-paced environment.

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

AspectEntry Level Security EngineerSecurity Analyst
Required CertificationsCompTIA Security+, Cisco CCNA SecurityCompTIA Security+, GIAC Security Essentials
Work EnvironmentIT security teams, technical roles, hands-on security implementationMonitoring, analyzing security data, incident response
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, finance, healthcare, governmentCorporate security teams, cybersecurity firms, government agencies

Entry Level Security Engineers focus on implementing and maintaining security systems, while Security Analysts primarily monitor and analyze security threats. Both roles require similar certifications and often work within the same industries, but their daily tasks differ—engineers build security solutions, whereas analysts respond to security incidents.

What are the most commonly searched types of Security Engineer jobs in Washington, DC? The most popular types of Security Engineer jobs in Washington, DC are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Security Engineer jobs in Washington, DC? For Entry Level Security Engineer jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Security Engineer jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Security Engineer jobs in Washington, DC are:
Entry Level Security Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Security Engineer job openings in Washington, DC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 93% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $172,967 per year, or $83.2 per hour.
OT Security Engineer (Hybrid/Remote)

OT Security Engineer (Hybrid/Remote)

Macro Solutions

Bethesda, MD

Contractor

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

OT Cybersecurity Engineer
Location: Bethesda, MD (Hybrid – 3 days onsite)
Employment Type: Long-term contract or contract-to-hire
Clearance: Must be able to pass a standard background check and obtain a Public Trust Clearance
Work Authorization: U.S. Citizenship required
Macro Pros has an immediate opening for an OT Cybersecurity Engineer to support the security of Operational Technology (OT) environments, including building automation, utilities, and other critical facilities systems. This role supports a client in Bethesda, Maryland.

Candidates must currently live in the Washington, DC metro area and be willing to work onsite in Bethesda three days per week.

What You’ll Do:
  • Assist with inventory and documentation of OT/ICS assets and networks
  • Maintain OT network and data flow diagrams, including segmented zones
  • Support monitoring of OT network segments for unusual or suspicious activity
  • Help triage OT-related security alerts and coordinate with cybersecurity and facilities teams
  • Assist with vulnerability tracking, patching/firmware planning, and basic system hardening
  • Contribute to OT risk assessments, security documentation, and compliance efforts (e.g., NIST-based controls)
  • Work with facilities, biomedical/clinical engineering teams, and vendors to plan secure changes and maintenance activities
Hands-On Experience With:
  • OT, controls, or building/facility systems (BAS/BMS, HVAC, utilities, PLCs)
  • IT and cybersecurity fundamentals (networking, firewalls, monitoring, vulnerability management)
  • Core networking and security concepts (TCP/IP, segmentation, least privilege, logging)
  • Clear technical documentation and communication with both technical and non-technical teams
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Minimum of 6 years of federal government experience
  • Experience with OT or industrial systems (building automation, power/backup systems, lab or facility controls)
  • Experience with OT/industrial protocols (BACnet, Modbus)
  • Knowledge of security frameworks (NIST SP 800-82, NIST SP 800-53, CIS Controls)
  • Entry-level certifications such as Security+, Network+, CySA+, or OT/ICS-focused training
  • Experience with OT security platforms (Nozomi, Dragos, Claroty)
  • Familiarity with federal security frameworks (FedRAMP, FISMA, RMF, NIST CSF, NIST SP 800-series)
Basic Qualifications:
  • Bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity, computer science, engineering (mechanical, electrical, controls, systems), IT, or a related field
    or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience
Work Environment:
  • Onsite in Bethesda three days per week (flexible on days) and two days remote
  • Occasional off-hours work to support maintenance windows or incident response
  • Regular access to mechanical rooms, plants, labs, and clinical areas (PPE and safety procedures required)