Principal Cyber Engineer information
See salary details
$103K - $108.9K
4% of jobs
$108.9K - $114.8K
4% of jobs
$114.8K - $120.7K
10% of jobs
$124.2K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$120.7K - $126.6K
12% of jobs
The median wage is $129.9K / yr.
$126.6K - $132.5K
36% of jobs
$137.6K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$132.5K - $138.5K
11% of jobs
$138.5K - $144.4K
2% of jobs
$144.4K - $150.3K
3% of jobs
$150.3K - $156.2K
5% of jobs
$156.2K - $162.1K
6% of jobs
$162.1K - $168K
6% of jobs
How much do principal cyber engineer jobs pay per year?
As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal cyber engineer in the United States is $134,293.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $124,000.00 and $148,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.
A Principal Cyber Engineer is a senior-level cybersecurity professional responsible for designing, implementing, and overseeing advanced security solutions to protect an organization's information systems. They provide technical leadership, mentor junior staff, and ensure compliance with security policies and regulations. Principal Cyber Engineers often lead complex projects, perform risk assessments, and respond to emerging cyber threats. Their role is critical in safeguarding sensitive data and maintaining the overall security posture of an organization.
To thrive as a Principal Cyber Engineer, you need deep expertise in cybersecurity principles, network security, risk assessment, and typically hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with security tools like SIEMs, firewalls, IDS/IPS, and certifications such as CISSP or CISM are commonly expected. Strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and excellent communication skills help you guide teams and coordinate complex security projects. These skills and qualifications are crucial for designing robust security architectures and effectively mitigating evolving cyber threats.
A Principal Cyber Engineer often serves as a bridge between technical cybersecurity teams, IT operations, and business stakeholders. They collaborate closely with software developers to embed security into the development lifecycle, work with network engineers to design resilient infrastructures, and advise leadership on risk management strategies. Effective communication and leadership skills are essential, as the role frequently involves translating complex security concepts for non-technical colleagues and leading cross-functional security initiatives. This collaborative approach helps align security objectives with overall business goals and ensures a comprehensive defense strategy.
Who are the top companies hiring for Principal Cyber Engineer jobs?
The top employers for Principal Cyber Engineer jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Principal Cyber Engineer jobs?
For Principal Cyber Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are: