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Principal Cybersecurity Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ManTech

Principal Cyber Security Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$141K - $236K/yr

Principal Cyber Security engineers are responsible for the quality of cyber security related solution delivery, development, testing and deployment in support of cyber security efforts. They are ...

MANTECH

Senior Cyber Security Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

MANTECH seeks a motivated, career, and customer-oriented Senior Cyber Security Engineer to join our team in Chantilly, VA. In this role, you will support a mission-critical initiative and contribute ...

ManTech

Principal Cyber Security Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$141K - $236K/yr

The Principal Cyber Security Engineer will leverage their strong technical background and knowledge to support the Sponsor's system accreditation efforts, to include creating Body of Evidence (BOE ...

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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 Sep 2, 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 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.

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 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.

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.

How much does a principal cybersecurity engineer make?

A principal cybersecurity engineer typically earns between $120,000 and $180,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. They often hold advanced certifications like CISSP or CISM and have extensive expertise in security architecture, risk management, and threat mitigation.
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Principal Cybersecurity Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Cybersecurity Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,220 per year, or $70.8 per hour.

Principal Cyber Security Engineer

MANTECH

Chantilly, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 5 hours ago

ManTech rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

47th of 247 rated software companies

Job description

MANTECH seeks a motivated, career and customer-oriented Principal Cyber Security Engineer to join our team in Chantilly, VA.

Principal Cyber Security engineers are responsible for the quality of cyber security related solution delivery, development, testing and deployment in support of cyber security efforts. They are involved in creating quality cyber solution components based on the provided requirements. The successful candidate must possess the ability to work in a team environment as well as independently.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

  • Maintaining operations of identity and access management services including directory, access, identity, and privileged access management services.
  • Maintaining infrastructure in cloud or virtualized environments.
  • Performing Linux and Windows based system upgrades and patches.
  • Engineering and deployment of a privileged access management (PAM) solution.
  • Engineering and deployment of a Multi Factor Authentication (MFA) solution.
  • Managing Continuous Monitoring (CONMON) activities and maintaining Authority to Operate (ATO).
  • Providing status reports in an Agile environment and periodically providing after-hour support.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree or 4+ years of additional IT experience in lieu of degree.
  • 7+ years of working experience in the IT field.
  • Experience working in LINUX and Windows environments.
  • Knowledge of LDAP directory and managing databases.
  • Ability to create scripts to assist with automation efforts.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience with PAM tools implementation and maintenance.
  • Experience with authorization and authentication technologies and Identity and Access Management principals.
  • Experience with Ansible, writing automation playbooks, and working in a Dev/Ops environment.
  • Experience with PKI principals and working in an Agile environment.

Clearance Requirements:

  • Must have a current/active TS/SCI w/Polygraph.

Physical Requirements:

  • The person in this position must be able to remain in a stationary position 50% of the time.
  • Occasionally move about inside the office to access file cabinets, office machinery, or to communicate with co-workers, management, and customers, via email, phone, and or virtual communication, which may involve delivering presentations.

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