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Network Security Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Senior Network Security Engineer II

Washington, DC · Hybrid

$66.25 - $86.75/hr

As a Senior Network Security Engineer II you will lead the design, implementation, and maintenance of our organization's network security infrastructure. The ideal candidate will have a strong ...

Senior Network Security Engineer II

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$66.25 - $86.75/hr

As a Senior Network Security Engineer II you will lead the design, implementation, and maintenance of our organization's network security infrastructure. The ideal candidate will have a strong ...

Senior Network Security Engineer II

Washington, DC · Remote

$60 - $78.25/hr

As a Senior Network Security Engineer II you will lead the design, implementation, and maintenance of our organization's network security infrastructure. The ideal candidate will have a strong ...

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Network Security Engineer information

See Reston, VA salary details

$21.8K

$130K

$173.7K

How much do network security engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for network security engineer in Reston, VA is $129,991.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $108,700.00 and $148,800.00 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 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 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 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 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.

What are popular job titles related to Network Security Engineer jobs in Reston, VA? For Network Security Engineer jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Network Security Engineer jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Network Security Engineer jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Network Security Engineer jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Network Security Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Network Security Engineer job openings in Reston, VA as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $129,991 per year, or $62.5 per hour.
Network Security Engineer III

Network Security Engineer III

Invictus International Consulting, LLC

Alexandria, VA • On-site

$111.70K - $152.80K/yr

Full-time

Posted yesterday


Job description

Title: Network Security Engineer III
Location: Alexandria, VA
Clearance: TS/SCI with the ability to obtain and maintain a CI polygraph
Job Details:
  • Responsible for the deployment, configuration, and operational support of enterprise firewall infrastructure
  • Execute enterprise networking fundamentals, including routing, switching, and end-to-end traffic flow
  • Demonstrate LAN and WAN troubleshooting experience
  • Hands on experience with eBGP, VLANs, and Palo Alto APP-ID
  • Design, implement, and maintain NGFW security policies, including both physical and virtual firewalls
  • Perform IDS/IPS configuration, tuning, and alert triage
  • Read, produce, and maintain accurate network diagrams (Visio or equivalent)
  • Conduct network security monitoring including traffic analysis and anomaly detection
  • Troubleshoot routing, VLAN, and policy related issues impacting data flow across the enterprise
  • Perform packet captures and traffic analysis to isolate and resolve complex connectivity issues
  • Monitor and refine Splunk dashboards and alerts in support of firewall operations and incident investigation desired
  • Collaborate with the network, SOC, and engineering teams during incidents and routine operations
  • Document configurations, runbooks, and post incident findings

Requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited institute in a technical discipline; an additional four (4) years of experience may be substituted in lieu of a degree
  • Minimum six (6) years of relevant experience in addition to education level
  • Experience working in a DoD or Intelligence Community Environment desired
  • Must possess current DoD 8570 IAT II and CCNP (or equivalent) certifications
  • Current active TS/SCI clearance, with the ability to obtain and maintain a CI polygraph

Equal Opportunity Employer/Veteran/Disabled