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Entry Level Security Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC

Chenega MIOS

Jr Cyber Security Engineer

Vienna, VA · On-site

Monitoring systems for security events and supporting incident response and risk mitigation ... From entry-level employees to senior leaders, we believe theres always room to learn. We offer ...

Battelle

Junior Test Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$65K - $93K/yr

Responsibilities As a Test Engineer - Entry Level, the selected individual will assist senior engineers in the testing and evaluation of critical security systems supporting DHS missions.

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Entry Level Security Engineer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$69.7K

$173K

$232.7K

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

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level security engineer in Washington, DC is $173,030.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $162,000.00 and $179,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level security engineer?

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 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 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.

How to start as an entry level security engineer?

To start as an entry level security engineer, gain foundational knowledge in cybersecurity principles, networking, and operating systems through relevant coursework or self-study. Obtain certifications such as CompTIA Security+ or Cisco's CCNA Security, and gain hands-on experience with security tools like firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and vulnerability scanners. Internships or entry-level positions can provide practical experience to build skills and understanding of security environments.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $173,030 per year, or $83.2 per hour.

Jr Cyber Security Engineer

Chenega Agile Real-Time Solutions

Vienna, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Summary

Jr Cyber Security Engineer

Vienna, VA

Are you ready to enhance your skills and build your career in a rapidly evolving business climate? Are you looking for a career where professional development is embedded in your employer’s core culture? If so, Chenega Military, Intelligence & Operations Support (MIOS) could be the place for you! Join our team of professionals who support large-scale government operations by leveraging cutting-edge technology and take your career to the next level!  

Chenega Agile Real-Time Solutions (CARS) was created with the purpose of providing integrated enterprise IT support to Federal customers both CONUS and OCONUS. CARS employs Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) with decades of experience working in the Federal marketplace. 

A Jr Cyber Security Engineer supports critical DoD and Intel missions and programs. This role focuses on cybersecurity engineering, risk management, and compliance across the cloud

and on-prem systems, supporting system authorization, vulnerability management, and

secure operations in classified environments.


Responsibilities
  • Applying RMF processes to support system Assessment & Authorization (A&A), including control selection, implementation, assessment, and continuous monitoring
  • Developing, reviewing, and maintaining security documentation such as SSPs, POA&Ms, SARs, and ATO artifacts in tools such as XACTA or eMASS
  • Conducting vulnerability assessments and compliance scans (e.g., ACAS) and tracking remediation of findings and IAVM requirements
  • Implementing and validating security controls aligned with NIST 800-53, CNSSI 1253, and related DoD guidance
  • Supporting system hardening, patching, and configuration management in compliance with STIGs for Linux, Windows, and network devices
  • Monitoring systems for security events and supporting incident response and risk mitigation activities
  • Assessing security impacts of system changes and supporting configuration control boards (CCBs)
  • Collaborating with system engineers, administrators, and DevSecOps teams to integrate security throughout the system lifecycle
  • Providing cybersecurity risk input to program leadership, Authorizing Officials (AOs), and stakeholders
  • Other duties as assigned

Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree with 1+ years of experience (or equivalent experience)
    • Experience with RMF, A&A, POA&M, and ATO documentation (XACTA/eMASS)
    • Experience securing Linux and Windows systems, STIGs, patching, and system hardening
  • DoD 8570 IAT Level II or higher certification (e.g., Security+, CySA+, CISSP)
  • Active or Current (within two years of active) Top Secret Security Clearance with SCI eligibility

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Scripting or development experience (Python, Java, React)
  • DevSecOps tools and pipeline experience
  • Experience with Linux (Red Hat/CentOS), databases, web apps, or big data platforms
  • Familiarity with Agile environments and tools (Jira, Confluence)
  • Experience with NIST SP 800-171 and System Security Engineering (SSE)

 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Ability to work independently and yet be effective within a team setting
  • Must be capable of managing multiple efforts with time-related constraints in a fast-paced contracting environment
  • Demonstrated ability to effectively communicate and collaborate with diverse internal and external stakeholder groups and individuals
  • Friendly presence, helpful attitude, good interpersonal skills, and ability to work well with others.
  • Excellent skills in Microsoft Word, Excel, and other Office applications
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office Applications, and experience working in a home office setting, as well as the ability to train end users on frequently asked technical issues.
  • Ability to provide technical assistance and support over the phone; good phone skills, professional demeanor, and previous customer service experience strongly desired.
  • Good problem-solving skills; ability to visualize a problem/situation and think abstractly to solve it
  • Hands-on vulnerability scanning and compliance tracking (ACAS, IAVM)
  • Knowledge of NIST 800-series publications and incident response processes
  • Strong analytical, communication, and collaboration skills

How you’ll grow  

At Chenega MIOS, our professional development plan focuses on helping our team members at every level of their careers to identify and use their strengths to do their best work every day. From entry-level employees to senior leaders, we believe there’s always room to learn.  

We offer opportunities to help sharpen skills in addition to hands-on experience in the global, fast-changing business world. From on-the-job learning experiences to formal development programs, our professionals have a variety of opportunities to continue to grow throughout their careers.  

Benefits  

At Chenega MIOS, we know that great people make a great organization. We value our team members and offer them a broad range of benefits.  

Learn more about what working at Chenega MIOS can mean for you.  

Chenega MIOS’s culture  

Our positive and supportive culture encourages our team members to do their best work every day. We celebrate individuals by recognizing their uniqueness and offering them the flexibility to make daily choices that can help them be healthy, centered, confident, and aware. We offer well-being programs and continuously look for new ways to maintain a culture where we excel and lead healthy, happy lives.  

Corporate citizenship  

Chenega MIOS is led by a purpose to make an impact that matters. This purpose defines who we are and extends to relationships with our clients, our team members, and our communities. We believe that business has the power to inspire and transform. We focus on education, giving, skill-based volunteerism, and leadership to help drive positive social impact in our communities.  

Learn more about Chenega’s impact on the world.  

Chenega MIOS News- https://chenegamios.com/news/  

Tips from your Talent Acquisition Team  

We want job seekers exploring opportunities at Chenega MIOS to feel prepared and confident. To help you with your research, we suggest you review the following links:  

Chenega MIOS web site - www.chenegamios.com  

Glassdoor - https://www.glassdoor.com/Overview/Working-at-Chenega-MIOS-EI_IE369514.11,23.htm  

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/1472684/  

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/chenegamios/ 

#Chenega Agile Real Time Solutions, LLC 


Estimated Salary/Wage
USD $145,000.00/Yr. Up to USD $160,000.00/Yr.

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