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Network Security Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Noblesoft Technologies

Network Security Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$122K - $167K/yr

Position Overview We are seeking a highly skilled Network Security Engineer (L3).. Key Responsibilities * Serve as the primary L3 escalation point for complex network security incidents, providing ...

Axos Bank

Sr. Network Security Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site +1

$120K - $150K/yr

We are seeking a Senior Network Security Engineer to join our Zero Trust team and serve as a hands-on technical owner of our Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) and micro segmentation platforms. This is ...

Axos Bank

Sr. Network Security Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

We are seeking a Senior Network Security Engineer to join our Zero Trust team and serve as a hands-on technical owner of our Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) and micro segmentation platforms. This is ...

Lightning AI

Network Security Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$180K - $220K/yr

What We're Looking For We're looking for a Network Security Engineer to design, implement, and maintain secure network infrastructure across Lightning AI's platform. In this role, you'll take ...

Vibotek LLC

Network Security Engineer

Rancho Cordova, CA · On-site

$111K - $152K/yr

This work supports improved security and controlled network connectivity across the client and its external partners. Responsibilities: * Review approximately 80 existing site-to-site IPsec VPN ...

Zoox

Senior/Staff Network Security Engineer

Foster City, CA

$68.25 - $89.25/hr

As a Senior or Staff Network Security Engineer, you will design, implement, and operate security controls across Zoox's enterprise, OT networks, and cloud infrastructure spanning on-premises data ...

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All JobsNetwork Security Engineer JobsNetwork Security Engineer Jobs in California

Network Security Engineer information

See California salary details

$20.7K

$123.3K

$164.8K

How much do network security engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for network security engineer in California is $123,312.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $103,100.00 and $141,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Network Security Engineer Do?

As a network security engineer, your job duties include configuring routers, switches, firewalls, virtual private networks (VPNs), and other network monitoring tools against intrusions. You need technical, analytical, and problem-solving skills to carry out your network security tasks. Your job is to ensure that your company’s internal networks are protected from potential online threats, like hackers and malware that can steal or corrupt sensitive data from websites, computer programs, databases, and servers. You need to remain current with new developments in the field to master fast-evolving network security technologies.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior network security engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications (such as CISSP or CISM), and specialized skills in threat detection and security architecture can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially in high-demand industries or senior leadership roles. Compensation varies based on location, company size, and individual expertise.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior network security engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications (such as CISSP or CISA), and expertise in cybersecurity tools can earn $300,000 or more annually. These roles often involve managing complex security infrastructure, leading security teams, and working in high-demand industries or large organizations.

What are some common challenges faced by Network Security Engineers in maintaining secure and efficient networks?

Network Security Engineers often encounter challenges such as staying ahead of rapidly evolving cyber threats, ensuring minimal downtime during security upgrades, and balancing strong security measures with network performance. Additionally, they must work closely with IT teams and end-users to implement security policies without disrupting daily operations. Keeping up with compliance standards and effectively communicating risks and solutions to non-technical stakeholders are also important aspects of the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Network Security Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Network Security Engineer, you need a solid understanding of networking protocols, firewall management, vulnerability assessment, and typically a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with security tools like IDS/IPS, SIEM systems, and certifications such as CISSP or CompTIA Security+ are highly valued. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help distinguish top professionals in this role. These skills are crucial for safeguarding organizational data, identifying security threats, and ensuring robust network protection.

What are Network Security Engineers?

Network Security Engineers are IT professionals responsible for protecting an organization's computer networks from security threats and unauthorized access. They design, implement, and maintain security measures such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and encryption protocols. Their role involves monitoring network traffic, responding to security incidents, and ensuring compliance with security policies and regulations. Network Security Engineers also conduct regular vulnerability assessments and work to keep systems up to date against evolving cyber threats.

What does a security network engineer do?

A security network engineer designs, implements, and maintains security measures to protect an organization's computer networks from cyber threats. They configure firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and VPNs, and often hold certifications like CISSP or CCNP. Their work involves monitoring network traffic, analyzing vulnerabilities, and responding to security incidents to ensure network integrity and confidentiality.

Can you make $500,000 a year in cyber security?

Network Security Engineers can potentially earn $500,000 annually with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and roles in high-paying industries or senior leadership positions. Achieving this level often requires specialized skills, such as expertise in threat management, security architecture, and leadership, along with a strong professional reputation. Such salaries are typically found in senior or executive roles rather than entry-level positions.

What is the difference between Network Security Engineer vs Security Analyst?

AspectNetwork Security EngineerSecurity Analyst
CertificationsCCNA, CISSP, CompTIA Security+CISSP, GIAC Security Essentials, CompTIA Security+
Work EnvironmentDesigning, implementing, and maintaining security infrastructureMonitoring, analyzing, and responding to security incidents
Employer & Industry UsageIT departments, cybersecurity firms, large enterprisesCorporate security teams, government agencies, financial institutions

While both roles focus on cybersecurity, Network Security Engineers primarily design and implement security systems, whereas Security Analysts monitor and respond to security threats. They often work together to ensure comprehensive protection of organizational networks.

More about Network Security Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Network Security Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Network Security Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Network Security Engineer jobs in California? For Network Security Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Network Security Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Network Security Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Network Security Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Network Security Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Network Security Engineer jobs in CA? For Network Security Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Network Security Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Network Security Engineer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 25% Contract. Highlights an 91% In-person, 6% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $123,312 per year, or $59.3 per hour.
Network Security Engineer

Network Security Engineer

Noblesoft Technologies

San Jose, CA • On-site

$122K - $167K/yr

Contractor

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Position Overview

We are seeking a highly skilled Network Security Engineer (L3)..

Key Responsibilities

  • Serve as the primary L3 escalation point for complex network security incidents, providing deep-dive analysis and resolution beyond L1/L2 capabilities
  • Lead proactive monitoring and event triage across customer-managed security infrastructure including firewalls, IDS/IPS, SIEM platforms, and endpoint security tools
  • Perform root cause analysis (RCA) and develop permanent remediation strategies for recurring security incidents and vulnerabilities
  • Manage and respond to security events related to malware, advanced persistent threats (APTs), DDoS, unauthorized access, and policy violations
  • Administer and fine-tune security technologies including SIEM (Splunk, QRadar), Firewall (Palo Alto, Cisco ASA/Firepower, Fortinet), PAM, IAM, and Cloud Security tools
  • Oversee vulnerability management lifecycle — from scanning and prioritization to remediation tracking and reporting
  • Ensure SLA compliance for incident detection, response, and resolution across all managed accounts
  • Develop and maintain SOPs, runbooks, and knowledge base articles to enhance team capability and consistency
  • Participate in change management processes, reviewing and approving firewall rule changes, access requests, and security configuration updates
  • Provide executive-level incident reports and briefings to client stakeholders and internal leadership as required
  • Mentor and provide technical guidance to L1 and L2 engineers, supporting skill development and operational excellence
  • Collaborate with client IT teams, vendors, and third-party security partners on security projects and initiatives

Required Qualifications

  • 8+ years of hands-on experience in network security operations, SOC, or managed security services
  • Deep expertise in firewall administration: Palo Alto Networks (PCNSE preferred), Cisco Firepower/ASA, Fortinet FortiGate, or Check Point
  • Proficiency with SIEM platforms: Splunk (SPLK-1002/3002 preferred), IBM QRadar, or Microsoft Sentinel
  • Strong understanding of network protocols: TCP/IP, BGP, OSPF, VLANs, VPNs (IPSec/SSL), DNS, HTTP/S
  • Experience with vulnerability management tools: Tenable Nessus, Qualys, or Rapid7 InsightVM
  • Familiarity with IAM and PAM solutions (CyberArk, BeyondTrust, Okta, Azure AD)
  • Solid understanding of cloud security principles across AWS, Azure, or GCP environments
  • Demonstrated experience working in an ITIL-based service delivery model with SLA accountability
  • Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and documentation skills
  • Ability to work in a 24x7 on-call rotation environment

Preferred Qualifications

  • Industry certifications: CISSP, CISM, CEH, CCNP Security, PCNSE, or equivalent
  • Experience supporting Fortune 500 or enterprise-scale managed security environments
  • Exposure to Zero Trust architecture, SASE, or SD-WAN security frameworks
  • Scripting/automation skills (Python, PowerShell, Bash) for security task automation
  • Prior experience with ServiceNow for ITSM and incident management workflows

Experience supporting VIP/executive-level incidents with executive communication skills