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Nsa Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Works closely with other IT and business partners to deliver NSA, MARVEL and OMNI deliverables. Manages computer systems in a business environment and is responsible for resolving technical issues.

... engineering experience with cryptographic systems, COMSEC, or secure communications * Direct experience with NSA Type-1 cryptographic equipment, integration, and certification processes * Working ...

... engineering experience with cryptographic systems, COMSEC, or secure communications * Direct experience with NSA Type-1 cryptographic equipment, integration, and certification processes * Working ...

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Nsa Engineering information

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$60K

$94.7K

$131.5K

How much do nsa engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for nsa engineering in the United States is $94,742.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,500.00 and $110,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is it hard to get hired by NSA?

Getting hired as an NSA engineer can be competitive due to high security clearance requirements and specialized skills in areas like cybersecurity, engineering, or data analysis. Candidates typically need a strong educational background, relevant experience, and must pass rigorous background checks and interviews.

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

To thrive as an NSA Engineer, you need a solid background in computer science, electrical engineering, or related fields, often supported by a relevant degree and security clearance. Familiarity with cybersecurity tools, programming languages (such as Python or C++), and secure network systems is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and ethical judgment are crucial soft skills for this sensitive role. These competencies ensure the effective protection of national security interests and the ability to address complex technical challenges in a secure environment.

Does the NSA hire engineers?

Yes, the NSA hires engineers in various fields such as electrical, computer, and systems engineering to support national security missions. These roles often require security clearances, specialized technical skills, and sometimes certifications like CISSP or CEH. Engineering positions at the NSA may involve working with advanced technology, cryptography, and cybersecurity tools.

What are some common challenges faced by NSA engineers and how can new hires prepare for them?

NSA engineers often work on highly sensitive and complex projects that require strict security protocols and collaboration across multidisciplinary teams. One common challenge is adapting to the rigorous security clearance process and maintaining confidentiality in all aspects of work. New hires can prepare by familiarizing themselves with federal security standards, demonstrating adaptability, and strengthening skills in communication and teamwork. Additionally, being comfortable with rapid technological changes and continuous learning is essential, as NSA engineering roles often involve emerging technologies and evolving national security requirements.

Does the NSA pay well?

NSA engineering roles are generally well-compensated, with salaries often above industry averages for similar technical positions. Compensation packages may include benefits such as security clearances, bonuses, and opportunities for career advancement, reflecting the specialized skills required in cybersecurity, signals intelligence, and systems engineering.

What is the difference between Nsa Engineering vs Mechanical Engineering Technician?

AspectNsa EngineeringMechanical Engineering Technician
Required CredentialsEngineering degree or diploma, relevant certificationsDiploma or associate degree in mechanical technology
Work EnvironmentDesign, analysis, project management in engineering firmsOn-site manufacturing, testing, and maintenance support
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering consulting firms, government agenciesManufacturing plants, industrial facilities

While both roles involve technical skills in engineering, Nsa Engineering typically focuses on design and analysis with a higher educational requirement, whereas Mechanical Engineering Technicians support manufacturing and maintenance tasks with technical diplomas. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What is NSA Engineering?

NSA Engineering refers to engineering roles within the National Security Agency (NSA), a U.S. government agency responsible for signals intelligence and information assurance. NSA engineers work on developing, maintaining, and securing advanced communication systems, cryptographic devices, and cybersecurity solutions to protect national security. These professionals often have backgrounds in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or related fields, and they contribute to technical innovations that support intelligence operations. The work is highly sensitive and typically requires security clearance due to the classified nature of the projects.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

High-paying jobs such as senior engineering roles, executive positions like CTOs or CEOs, and specialized fields like investment banking or private equity can reach or exceed $500,000 annually. These roles typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and often involve leadership responsibilities or technical expertise in areas like software development, aerospace, or cybersecurity.
More about Nsa Engineering jobs
What cities are hiring for Nsa Engineering jobs? Cities with the most Nsa Engineering job openings:
What states have the most Nsa Engineering jobs? States with the most job openings for Nsa Engineering jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Nsa Engineering jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Nsa Engineering jobs are:
Infographic showing various Nsa Engineering job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,742 per year, or $45.5 per hour.
Senior Embedded Firmware Engineer (clearance required)

Senior Embedded Firmware Engineer (clearance required)

Ultra

Tampa, FL โ€ข On-site

$112K - $149K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

Company: Ultra Intelligence & Communications
Mission Solutions
Powering Decision
Join the team redefining defense technology. From engineering systems that save lives to leading programs that change the battlefield-find your place in the future of defense.
Mission Solutions
By joining our Mission Solutions business, you will be a member of a team dedicated to providing innovative solutions that streamline the preparation and execution of intricate, mission-critical operations. We focus on enhancing situational awareness, tactical command and control, and seamless video data exchange capabilities within a dynamic, multi-domain environment.
Job Description
Ultra ProLogic is expanding its encryption business and seeking an Embedded Firmware Engineer to help architect, implement, and certify high-assurance cryptographic systems used by the U.S. Department of Defense, NATO, and allied partners.
This role goes beyond traditional embedded development. You will work on security-critical software and firmware that must meet NSA High Assurance (HA) certification requirements, contributing directly to cryptographic information assurance architectures, certification artifacts, and fielded systems protecting real-world tactical and strategic networks.
If you are motivated by deep technical challenges-secure embedded design, Rust adoption in constrained environments, and building systems that withstand formal certification scrutiny-this role offers rare and meaningful work.
What You'll Work On
โ€ข High-assurance cryptographic and key management systems supporting secure communications, remote rekey, and lifecycle management
โ€ข Embedded software and firmware operating within defined crypto, INFOSEC, and High Assurance boundaries
โ€ข Architecture and implementation of cryptographic information assurance (IA) software and systems
โ€ข Systems that undergo formal NSA High Assurance certification, from requirements through fielding and sustainment
Role Responsibilities
  • Design, develop, and maintain embedded firmware primarily in VHDL for cryptographic and security-critical platforms
  • Develop embedded algorithms and functions in firmware
  • Develop device drivers for hardware components
  • Architect cryptographic information assurance Firmware and systems, including definition of security boundaries, trusted services, and separation of crypto and non-crypto functions
  • Perform trade studies and embedded architecture design, with emphasis on red-black separation, Security Monitor, bus interfaces and channel development
  • Actively support the NSA High Assurance certification process, including:
    • Requirements decomposition and traceability
    • Security architecture definition and documentation
    • Development of certification artifacts and evidence
    • Participation in technical reviews and certification milestones
  • Develop and maintain formal engineering documentation:
    • Software & Hardware Requirements (SHRS, IRS)
    • Interface Control Documents (ICDs)
    • Software/Hardware Design Descriptions (SHDD)
  • Develop and execute simulations, integration, and acceptance testing, including hardware-in-the-loop and security-relevant test cases
  • Manage configuration control for firmware development items in certified baselines
  • Collaborate closely with systems, hardware, software, security, and test engineers in a high-performance, mission-driven team
  • Identify and implement process, tooling, and automation improvements to support secure development and certification efficiency
  • Periodic travel (~5%) for customer interaction, test events, or off-site integration activities

Required Qualifications
  • Active U.S. Government Secret Security Clearance (U.S. citizenship required)
  • Bachelor's degree in computer science, computer engineering, software engineering, or equivalent experience
  • 8+ years of embedded firmware development experience in VHDL
  • Experience with:
    • Low-level embedded development and debugging
    • ARM/MicroBlaze-based processors and SoC platforms
    • Firmware and hardware/software integration
  • Strong understanding of memory management, concurrency, and deterministic embedded behavior

Preferred / Differentiating Experience
  • 10+ years of embedded or firmware development experience
  • Direct experience with NSA High Assurance certification, RMF, or similar DoD security frameworks
  • Familiarity with cryptographic system design, key management, and secure boot/trust architectures
  • Experience with:
    • AMD Zynq UltraScale+ MPSoC (e.g., Xilinx ZCU102/104 Evaluation Kit or similar)
  • Experience working in waterfall or agile development methodology-based projects
  • Strong systems-thinking mindset with the ability to assess technical risk and security impact
  • Clear communicator who thrives in collaborative, technically rigorous teams

Why Ultra ProLogic
  • Work on fielded, certified cryptographic systems and research & development projects
  • Direct exposure to and participation in NSA High Assurance certification
  • Opportunity to influence system architecture, not just implementation
  • Hands-on role in modernizing high-assurance systems
  • Long-term programs, stable funding, and deeply technical challenges

#IC
#LI-Onsite
#LI-JK1
Notice
Due to the nature of the programs we deliver for our customers, candidates may need to obtain the relevant security clearance or handle export-controlled material as defined by the role's requirements.
Our Benefits
Every employee is critical to our success, and as such, we offer a range of flexible employee benefits, including:
  • Annual Bonus - Annual Bonus - Performance Related
  • Competitive Paid Time Off (PTO) package plus 11 company holidays
  • Early finish on Friday
  • 401K w/ company match
  • Medical/Dental/Vision Benefits
  • Student Loan Assistance Program
  • Array of voluntary benefit offerings

Ultra I&C is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected state or federal classes.
We provide affirmative action in employment for qualified individuals with disabilities and protected veterans in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act. If you need an accommodation in any part of the application process, email careers@ultra-ic.com."