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Microsoft Security Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Engineer and scale Microsoft security solutions across diverse customer environments * Lead the design, deployment, and optimization of: * Microsoft Sentinel for SIEM/SOAR * Microsoft Defender Suite ...

Senior Cloud & Security Engineer

Chicago, IL ยท Hybrid

$118K - $161K/yr

Support security hardening, baseline remediation, and secure configuration initiatives across Azure ... Translate Microsoft E5 and E7 capabilities into scalable engineering standards and operational ...

Security Engineer

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Secure the organization's Microsoft 365 / cloud environment, network infrastructure, and endpoints ... security engineering, or a security-focused systems/network administration role. * Working ...

Role Overview We are looking to hire a senior fully technical, hands-on Security Engineer who can ... Establish, enforce and operate the full IAM lifecycle in Microsoft Entra: SSO, MFA, conditional ...

Role Overview We are looking to hire a senior fully technical, hands-on Security Engineer who can ... Establish, enforce and operate the full IAM lifecycle in Microsoft Entra: SSO, MFA, conditional ...

Security Engineer

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$78K - $119K/yr

Role Overview We are looking to hire a senior fully technical, hands-on Security Engineer who can ... Establish, enforce and operate the full IAM lifecycle in Microsoft Entra: SSO, MFA, conditional ...

Work as a member of the security engineering team and cross functionally to help promote hybrid on ... Email Security (Proofpoint, Barracuda, Microsoft, etc.) * EPM solutions (CyberArk, Microsoft ...

Required Qualifications And Skills -Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Information ... with Microsoft cloud and security platforms such as Microsoft -Defender and Microsoft Purview ...

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Showing results 1-20

Microsoft Security Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$59.6K

$148K

$199.1K

How much do microsoft security engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for microsoft security engineer in Illinois is $148,041.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $138,600.00 and $153,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Microsoft Security Engineer?

Microsoft Security Engineers are IT professionals who specialize in designing, implementing, and managing security solutions within Microsoft environments. They work to protect an organization's data, systems, and networks by configuring security tools, monitoring for threats, and responding to incidents. Their responsibilities often include ensuring compliance with security policies, managing identity and access controls, and staying current with evolving cybersecurity threats. They may work with on-premises, cloud, or hybrid infrastructures, particularly focusing on Microsoft technologies such as Azure, Microsoft 365, and Windows security tools.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a Microsoft Security Engineer?

To thrive as a Microsoft Security Engineer, you need a strong background in information security principles, experience with Microsoft security solutions (such as Azure Security Center, Microsoft Defender, and Active Directory), and relevant certifications like Microsoft Certified: Security, Compliance, and Identity Fundamentals or Microsoft Certified: Security Operations Analyst Associate. Familiarity with security monitoring tools, SIEM platforms, and scripting languages like PowerShell is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial for identifying vulnerabilities, implementing robust security measures, and ensuring the ongoing protection of organizational data and systems.

What challenges do Microsoft Security Engineers face when securing cloud environments, and how are they addressed?

Microsoft Security Engineers often encounter challenges such as managing complex identity and access controls, monitoring for evolving threats, and ensuring compliance across hybrid or multi-cloud environments. These are typically addressed by implementing robust Azure security best practices, automating security monitoring with tools like Microsoft Defender, and collaborating closely with development and IT teams to maintain secure configurations. Staying updated with the latest security features and regularly participating in security training also helps engineers proactively tackle emerging threats.

What is the difference between Microsoft Security Engineer vs Cybersecurity Analyst?

AspectMicrosoft Security EngineerCybersecurity Analyst
CertificationsMicrosoft Certified: Security, Compliance, and Identity Fundamentals; CompTIA Security+CompTIA Security+; GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC)
Work EnvironmentFocus on Microsoft security tools, cloud security, and enterprise environmentsBroader security monitoring, incident response, and threat analysis across various platforms
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in organizations using Microsoft products and cloud servicesAcross diverse industries, including finance, healthcare, and government

The Microsoft Security Engineer specializes in securing Microsoft environments, cloud security, and compliance, often working with Microsoft tools and platforms. In contrast, a Cybersecurity Analyst has a broader focus on monitoring, analyzing, and responding to security threats across multiple systems and platforms. Both roles require security certifications and are vital in protecting organizational assets, but they differ in scope and technical focus.

Is Microsoft Security Engineer security a good career?

A Microsoft Security Engineer role is a strong career choice in cybersecurity, focusing on protecting Microsoft-based systems and networks. It often requires knowledge of security tools, certifications like Microsoft Certified: Security, Compliance, and Identity Fundamentals, and ongoing skill development. The role offers good job prospects, competitive salaries, and opportunities for advancement in the cybersecurity field.

Is security engineering a good career?

Security engineering is a strong career choice for those interested in protecting information systems, as it involves designing and implementing security measures using tools like firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and encryption. It offers high demand, competitive salaries, and opportunities for continuous learning with certifications such as CISSP or CEH. The field requires technical skills, problem-solving ability, and staying current with evolving threats.

What job categories do people searching Microsoft Security Engineer jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Microsoft Security Engineer jobs in Illinois are:

Infographic showing various Microsoft Security Engineer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $148,041 per year, or $71.2 per hour.

Microsoft Security Architect (Chicago)

RKON

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

$150K - $170K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Overview

About RKON: RKON is an ISO27001 and AICPA SOC 2 Type II certified company that provides IT migration and transformation services for the Mergers and Acquisitions market. RKON is recognised as one of the 100 best places to work in IT, with a focus on empowering thought leaders and delivering cutting-edge solutions in private equity. RKON seeks ambitious professionals to join our award-winning team. We value initiative, creative thinking, and collaboration and reward those who contribute to the extraordinary level of service we deliver to customers.

About the position: As a trusted Microsoft partner and security service provider, we are looking for a Microsoft Security Architect to design and implement scalable, enterprise-grade security solutions for our customers. This is a senior-level engineering and architecture role focused on delivering secure, compliant, and resilient environments using Microsoftโ€™s security stack. This role is based in RKON HQ in Chicago, and you must be able to commute to the office 2x a week.

Responsibilities
  • Engineer and scale Microsoft security solutions across diverse customer environments
  • Lead the design, deployment, and optimization of:
  • Microsoft Sentinel for SIEM/SOAR
  • Microsoft Defender Suite (Defender for Endpoint, Identity, Cloud Apps, Office 365, etc.)
  • Microsoft Entra ID (formerly Azure AD) for identity and access management
  • Microsoft Purview for data governance and compliance
  • Collaborate with customer stakeholders to assess security posture, define requirements, and deliver tailored solutions
  • Conduct security assessments, threat modeling, and incident response planning
  • Develop reusable templates, automation scripts, and documentation to support repeatable delivery
  • Act as a subject matter expert in Microsoft security technologies during pre-sales, implementation, and post-deployment phases
  • Stay current with Microsoftโ€™s evolving security roadmap and industry best practices
Required Qualifications
  • 5+ years of senior-level experience as a security engineer or architect, preferably in a consulting or service delivery capacity
  • Deep hands-on experience with Microsoft Sentinel, Defender Suite, Entra ID, and Purview
  • Strong understanding of Microsoft Azure security architecture best practices, Defender for Cloud, and cloud-native security controls
  • Proven ability to translate business and compliance requirements into technical solutions
  • Excellent communication skills and experience working directly with enterprise customers
  • Willingness to travel occasionally for client engagements
Preferred Qualifications
  • Microsoft certifications such as: SC-200, SC-300, SC-400, AZ-500
  • Experience with scripting and automation (PowerShell, KQL, ARM/Bicep, Terraform)
  • Familiarity with Zero Trust architecture and hybrid cloud security models
  • Background in managed security services or professional services delivery
Compensation

The base salary range for this position is $150,000-$170,000. This is an estimated range based on circumstances at the time of posting and may change based on factors such as skills, experience, education, market factors, location, budget, and demand. This role is eligible for a bonus component based on pre-defined performance factors. RKON provides a benefits package including health insurance (medical, dental, vision, life, and disability coverage), flexible time off, and a 401(k) Plan with employer match. All compensation determinations are based on the skills and experience required for the position and may vary above or below the stated amounts.

Seniority level
  • Not Applicable
Employment type
  • Full-time
Job function
  • Information Technology
Industries
  • IT Services and IT Consulting
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