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Principal Cybersecurity Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

About the Team We are seeking a highly skilled Principal cybersecurity engineer to architect the development of our internal suite of Cybersecurity Risk Management and Automation tools. This role ...

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Principal Cybersecurity Engineer information

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$74K

$147.2K

$212.5K

How much do principal cybersecurity engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal cybersecurity engineer in the United States is $147,220.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $118,500.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Principal Cybersecurity Engineer, you need deep expertise in security architecture, risk assessment, and threat mitigation, typically supported by a bachelor’s or master’s degree in computer science and industry certifications like CISSP or CISM. Familiarity with security tools such as SIEM platforms, vulnerability scanners, intrusion detection systems, and cloud security solutions is essential. Strong leadership, strategic thinking, and effective communication skills enable collaboration across technical and executive teams. These competencies ensure robust protection of organizational assets, effective response to evolving threats, and alignment of security initiatives with business goals.

How does a Principal Cybersecurity Engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement security solutions?

A Principal Cybersecurity Engineer regularly partners with IT, software development, and business operations teams to design and integrate robust security solutions throughout an organization’s technology stack. This collaboration involves leading security architecture reviews, providing technical guidance on secure coding practices, and ensuring compliance with industry regulations. Effective communication and project management skills are essential, as the role often requires translating complex security concepts for non-technical stakeholders and facilitating the adoption of security best practices across departments.

What is the difference between Principal Cybersecurity Engineer vs Cybersecurity Engineer?

AspectPrincipal Cybersecurity EngineerCybersecurity Engineer
CertificationsCCSP, CISSP, CISACISSP, Security+
Work EnvironmentLeadership roles, strategic planning, high-level security architectureImplementation, monitoring, and technical support
Employer & Industry UsageLarge enterprises, government agencies, financial institutionsTech companies, startups, mid-sized firms

The Principal Cybersecurity Engineer typically holds more advanced certifications and focuses on strategic security planning and leadership. In contrast, Cybersecurity Engineers are more involved in hands-on technical tasks like system monitoring and vulnerability assessments. Both roles are essential, but the principal position often oversees security programs and guides teams, while cybersecurity engineers execute security measures on a day-to-day basis.

What does a Principal Cybersecurity Engineer do?

A Principal Cybersecurity Engineer is a senior-level professional who leads the design, implementation, and management of an organization's cybersecurity strategy. They are responsible for overseeing security architecture, evaluating risks, developing policies, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. Additionally, they mentor junior staff, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and stay updated on emerging threats to protect critical systems and data. Their expertise helps organizations defend against cyberattacks and maintain robust security postures.
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What job categories do people searching Principal Cybersecurity Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Principal Cybersecurity Engineer jobs are:
Principal Cybersecurity Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Cybersecurity Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,220 per year, or $70.8 per hour.
Engineer/Scientist 5 - Principal Cyber Security Engineer

Engineer/Scientist 5 - Principal Cyber Security Engineer

Stahl Companies

Charleston, SC • On-site

Contractor

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Engineer/Scientist 5 - Principal Cyber Security Engineer
Department: NIWCSSS
Employment Type: Contract / Temp
Location: NIWCSSS-NAVWAR-NIWC-231999-SC
Description
Engineer/Scientist 5 - Principal Cyber Security Engineer (Key)
Position Summary
Leads cybersecurity engineering efforts to protect enterprise systems, ensuring compliance, resilience, and proactive defense against evolving threats.
Responsibilities
• Oversee cybersecurity operations to ensure confidentiality, integrity, and availability of systems.
• Conduct security requirements analysis, risk assessments, and system security design.
• Lead certification and accreditation processes and ensure compliance with applicable standards.
• Perform vulnerability assessments, penetration testing, and Red Team exercises.
• Develop and implement incident response, disaster recovery, and business continuity plans.
• Monitor and analyze cyber events, providing threat detection and mitigation strategies.
• Design and implement security architectures across on-premise and cloud environments.
• Develop security assessment plans including scope, risks, and documentation requirements.
Qualifications
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or Information Systems.
• Minimum 15 years of cybersecurity experience across engineering and operations.
• Expertise in vulnerability analysis, incident response, and systems hardening.
• Experience with cloud security and enterprise security frameworks.
*Position is contingent upon award.
Location: NIWC Atlantic in Charleston
To know more about the company, visit Stahl Companies (stahlusa.us)
Key Responsibilities
Leads cybersecurity engineering efforts to protect enterprise systems, ensuring compliance, resilience, and proactive defense against evolving threats.

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