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Security Operations Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

540

Security Operations Engineer

Arlington, VA

540 is seeking a Security Operations Engineer to support our partnership with Google and the Department of Defense in advancing mission-critical capabilities for a global data processing platform.

Constellis

DevOps Engineer

VA · On-site +1

$55.75 - $76.25/hr

POSITION SUMMARY Layered Extended Security Operations (LEXSO) is Constellis' advanced multi-sensor ... Engineer to join a team focused towards strengthening our platform delivery and ensure seamless ...

Constellis

DevOps Engineer

VA · On-site +1

$55.75 - $76.25/hr

POSITION SUMMARY Layered Extended Security Operations (LEXSO) is Constellis' advanced multi-sensor ... Engineer to join a team focused towards strengthening our platform delivery and ensure seamless ...

Pae

DevOps Engineer (Mid) TS/SCI

Arlington, VA · On-site

$60.75 - $83/hr

Integrates security practices into the full DevOps pipeline including development, testing, deployment, and operations. Automates security testing, scanning, and compliance checks throughout the ...

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All JobsSecurity Operations Engineer JobsSecurity Operations Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Security Operations Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$33.2K

$136.6K

$172.5K

How much do security operations engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for security operations engineer in Virginia is $136,563.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $110,000.00 and $171,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Security Operations Engineer vs Security Analyst?

AspectSecurity Operations EngineerSecurity Analyst
CertificationsCompTIA Security+, CISSP, CEHCompTIA Security+, GIAC Security Essentials
Work EnvironmentHands-on security infrastructure management, incident responseMonitoring, analyzing security data, reporting
Employer & Industry UsageIT security teams in various industries, focusing on security operations

The Security Operations Engineer focuses on managing security systems and responding to incidents, while the Security Analyst primarily monitors security data and analyzes threats. Both roles require similar certifications and work closely within security teams, but their daily tasks differ in scope and focus.

Can you make $500,000 a year in cyber security?

Security Operations Engineers can potentially earn $500,000 annually with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and roles in high-paying industries or senior leadership positions. Such salaries are typically achieved through senior-level roles, specialized skills, and often include bonuses or stock options.

What are some of the main challenges Security Operations Engineers face when responding to security incidents?

Security Operations Engineers often face challenges such as quickly identifying genuine threats among large volumes of security alerts, coordinating responses across multiple teams, and containing incidents before they escalate. Balancing thorough investigation with the need for rapid action can be demanding, especially in high-pressure situations. Additionally, staying updated on emerging threats and ensuring compliance with security protocols are ongoing responsibilities that require continuous learning and adaptability.

What Does a Security Operations Engineer Do?

As a security operations engineer, your job is to monitor a network or system and help implement new methods of protection and data recovery. In this role, you may conduct a vulnerability assessment for each emerging threat, coordinate with other security specialists, and help develop responses with industry peers. This job title refers to maintaining network security systems and should not be confused with non-electronic security operations, such as safeguarding VIPs or facilities. A security operations engineer works regular hours, but employers may call you in for emergency help as needed. This position usually reports to someone, such as a chief information security officer. You may occasionally brief executives or other managers on relevant topics, so presentation skills are helpful.

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

To thrive as a Security Operations Engineer, you need a solid understanding of network security, incident response, and vulnerability management, typically supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Experience with SIEM tools (like Splunk or QRadar), firewalls, IDS/IPS, and certifications such as CISSP or CompTIA Security+ are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help you quickly detect and respond to security threats while collaborating with teams. These skills are crucial to proactively safeguarding organizational assets, minimizing risks, and ensuring swift recovery from security incidents.

What does a security operations engineer do?

A security operations engineer monitors, detects, and responds to cybersecurity threats and incidents within an organization. They use tools like security information and event management (SIEM) systems, perform vulnerability assessments, and implement security measures to protect IT infrastructure. Strong knowledge of network security, incident response, and relevant certifications such as CISSP or CEH are often required.

Is SOC an entry level job?

A Security Operations Center (SOC) analyst role can be entry level, but many positions require some prior knowledge of cybersecurity, networking, or security tools. Entry-level SOC jobs often focus on monitoring security alerts and basic incident response, while more advanced roles may require certifications like CompTIA Security+ or CISSP. Experience with SIEM tools and understanding of security protocols can improve job prospects.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior security engineers, especially those with extensive experience, specialized skills, and certifications like CISSP or CISA, can earn $500,000 or more annually. High-level roles in cybersecurity often involve leadership, strategic planning, and working in large organizations or consulting firms, with compensation including base salary, bonuses, and stock options.
More about Security Operations Engineer jobs
What are popular job titles related to Security Operations Engineer jobs in Virginia? For Security Operations Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Security Operations Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Security Operations Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Security Operations Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Security Operations Engineer job openings:
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Security Operations Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Security Operations Engineer job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $136,563 per year, or $65.7 per hour.

Security Operations Engineer

540

Arlington, VA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 hours ago

Job description

540 is seeking a Security Operations Engineer to support our partnership with Google and the Department of Defense in advancing mission-critical capabilities for a global data processing platform. This platform leverages Machine Learning, modern cloud and containerized technologies to ingest, process, and analyze high-volume, time-series data.

In this role, you will support the implementation and maintenance of cybersecurity controls across a complex cloud and platform environment. You will work closely with engineers, architects, and security stakeholders to ensure systems are secure, compliant, and resilient within highly regulated, high-impact environments.

Location: Patrick SFB, FL or Arlington, VA. Candidates should be local to either location. Onsite support may be required based on mission and customer needs. Travel up to 25%
Citizenship & Clearance Requirement: Per client requirements, candidates must be U.S. Citizens with an active DoW clearance with TS/SCI eligibility
Education Requirement: Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, or related field (preferred)
540 Internal Thrive Level: Security Specialist III

WHY 540?

540 is a forward-thinking company that the government turns to in order to #getshitdone. We don't just talk about innovation – we deliver it. We break down barriers, build impactful technology, and solve mission-critical problems.

HOW YOU'LL DRIVE IMPACT

  • Support implementation of security controls across cloud infrastructure, platforms, and applications
  • Assist in maintaining compliance with DoD security requirements and frameworks (RMF, NIST 800-53)
  • Collaborate with engineers and architects to integrate security into system design and development
  • Support vulnerability management, scanning, and remediation efforts
  • Assist in monitoring system security posture and responding to security findings
  • Support development and maintenance of security documentation, including SSPs and POA&Ms
  • Participate in security assessments, audits, and authorization activities
  • Support incident response activities and root cause analysis
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to promote secure development and operational practices

REQUIRED SKILLS & EXPERIENCE

  • 5+ years of experience in cybersecurity, information assurance, or related roles
  • Experience working with cloud environments (AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud)
  • Experience completing the RMF process from start to finish, including required documentation
  • Experience creating and managing ATO packages in eMASS
  • Familiarity with DoD security frameworks and NIST 800-53 Rev. 5
  • Familiarity with STIGs and cybersecurity scanning (SAST, Fortify)
  • Familiarity with securing containerized environments and cloud-native applications
  • Experience with DevSecOps practices and CI/CD security integration
  • Experience in Cybersecurity automation (policy as code)
  • CompTIA Security+ certification required (or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire)

NICE TO HAVE

  • Experience supporting Google Cloud environments (GCP)
  • Experience securing machine learning operations (MLOps)
  • Familiarity with cloud security concepts
  • Experience working with Linux-based systems
  • Experience supporting cybersecurity efforts within high-security or highly-regulated environments

BENEFITS & PERKS

  • Flexible PTO + all Federal holidays off
  • Health, dental and vision insurance plans
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
  • 401k with employer match
  • Company-sponsored life insurance, short- and long-term disability
  • Professional development (training, certifications, conferences)
  • Paid cloud developer accounts
  • Referral bonuses
  • HQ office perks (parking / metro reimbursement, nitro coffee & lunches)
  • Annual social events (540 Week, hackathon, charity golf tournament, etc.)
  • Access to 540's Washington Capitals & Nationals tickets

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY (EEO)

540's policy is to provide equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.