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Security Software Developer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

SpaceX

Security Software Engineer

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$145K - $175K/yr

SECURITY SOFTWARE ENGINEER SpaceX is looking for a Security Engineer to join the Security department to help protect and drive the SpaceX mission. Information drives our business and we must protect ...

Qualcomm

#Security Software Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

As a Security Software Engineer, you will design, develop, and validate embedded and cloud edge software, collaborating with various teams to create world-class products that meet customer needs.

SpaceX

Security Software Engineer

Hawthorne, CA · On-site +1

$145K - $175K/yr

SECURITY SOFTWARE ENGINEER SpaceX is looking for a Security Engineer to join the Security department to help protect and drive the SpaceX mission. Information drives our business and we must protect ...

SpaceX

Security Software Engineer

Hawthorne, CA · On-site +1

$145K - $175K/yr

SECURITY SOFTWARE ENGINEER SpaceX is looking for a Security Engineer to join the Security department to help protect and drive the SpaceX mission. Information drives our business and we must protect ...

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Security Software Developer information

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$47.4K

$110.4K

$163.8K

How much do security software developer jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for security software developer in California is $110,380.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,800.00 and $128,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Security Software Developer, you need strong programming skills (such as C/C++, Python, or Java), a solid understanding of cybersecurity principles, and often a degree in computer science or related fields. Familiarity with security frameworks, penetration testing tools, secure coding standards, and certifications like CISSP or CEH are commonly required. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and attention to detail are essential soft skills that help in identifying and mitigating vulnerabilities. These skills and qualities are crucial for building robust, secure software that protects organizations from evolving cyber threats.

What are some common challenges Security Software Developers face when integrating security features into existing applications?

Security Software Developers often encounter challenges such as legacy code compatibility, balancing security enhancements with application performance, and ensuring new security features don't disrupt user experience. Collaborating closely with other developers and IT teams is essential to address these issues efficiently. Additionally, keeping up-to-date with evolving security threats and best practices is crucial, as solutions may need frequent updates or adjustments.

What are Security Software Developers?

Security Software Developers are professionals who design, develop, and implement software solutions specifically aimed at protecting computer systems and networks from cyber threats. They build security features, such as encryption, authentication, and intrusion detection, into applications and systems to ensure data confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Their work often involves identifying vulnerabilities, addressing security flaws, and staying updated on the latest cybersecurity threats and techniques. Security Software Developers collaborate with other IT teams to integrate robust security measures throughout the software development lifecycle.

What is the difference between Security Software Developer vs Network Security Engineer?

AspectSecurity Software DeveloperNetwork Security Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science, cybersecurity certifications (e.g., CISSP, CEH)Bachelor's in Computer Science, cybersecurity certifications (e.g., CISSP, CEH)
Work EnvironmentDevelops security software, applications, and tools in software development teamsDesigns and implements network security measures, monitors network traffic
Industry UsageUsed across software companies, tech firms, and cybersecurity firmsCommon in IT departments, telecom, and enterprise organizations

Security Software Developers focus on creating security applications and tools, while Network Security Engineers primarily protect network infrastructure. Both roles require similar certifications and often collaborate to ensure comprehensive security solutions within organizations.

What are popular job titles related to Security Software Developer jobs in California? For Security Software Developer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Security Software Developer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Security Software Developer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Security Software Developer jobs? Cities in California with the most Security Software Developer job openings:
Security Software Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Security Software Developer job openings in California as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,380 per year, or $53.1 per hour.
Security Software Engineer

Security Software Engineer

SpaceX

Hawthorne, CA • On-site

$145K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

SpaceX rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 142 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

12th of 59 rated aerospace companies

Job description

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.
SECURITY SOFTWARE ENGINEER
SpaceX is looking for a Security Engineer to join the Security department to help protect and drive the SpaceX mission. Information drives our business and we must protect the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of systems and processes across the enterprise. As a highly visible and dynamic organization, we must also value and guard against damage to our reputation and brand. Finally, it is paramount that we defend against loss of control or confidence in our systems, to guarantee the highest probability of success. This role will focus on the "behind the scenes" technologies that ensure our networks and systems are up to industry and SpaceX standards of information security. It will also focus on providing high-criticality and high-risk services, with the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of those services in mind. This role will partner with various application development and customer groups across SpaceX to ensure that we are identifying and remediating any emerging vulnerabilities.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Design, build, and maintain technology solutions and systems that provide security for SpaceX systems, networks, and data. This can include:
  • Authentication and identity services, including multi-factor solutions, network access control identity servers, and related authentication and authorization technologies.
  • Identity lifecycle management services and automation. Build and maintain scripts and automation that support the information security mission across SpaceX, to be utilized by information security teammates and other partner organizations.
  • Network security systems and the backend infrastructure that powers such services.
  • Application level security controls (e.g. web application firewalls).
  • Cloud deployments security policy enforcement, centralized configuration management, monitoring, etc.
  • Serve as the subject matter expert (SME) for those solutions, maintaining documentation on them and advising others on their underlying technologies and operation.
  • Work with security and IT teams to identify threats and problem areas, using that feedback to further strengthen tools and technologies. Materialize this as improvements which result in stronger and safer software and application deployments across SpaceX, measuring in decreased risk and prevalence of issues.
  • Create solutions that are scalable, repeatable, maintainable, and secure.
  • Work collaboratively with other teams, including individuals in information security, physical security, information technology, human resources, legal, software, and others.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor's degree in computer science or another STEM discipline; OR 2+ years of professional experience in security software development in lieu of a degree
  • Experience with the Python programming language, GO, C#, or Rust
  • Experience designing and implementing security solutions for operating systems, distributed systems, or other enterprise/large-scale infrastructure

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
  • Experience with secure code development practices
  • Experience with Linux, Windows, and Mac system internals
  • Proficient experience with the Python programming language, GO, C#, or Rust
  • Strong knowledge of public key infrastructure (PKI) environments and related technologies
  • Experience with SAML, OIDC, and OAuth
  • Experience working with special purpose security hardware such as Trusted Platform Modules (TPMs) and Hardware Security Modules (HSMs)
  • Fundamental understanding of network protocols; including the TCP/IP stack as well as UDP based protocols
  • Experienced in navigating large, complex, interactive systems
  • Familiarity with developing web-based APIs, HTTP-RPC, and REST
  • Familiarity with enterprise security controls and security best practices for Windows, Linux, and Mac systems
  • Effective problem-solving skills, and ability to quickly determine root-causes of issues
  • Familiarity with macOS and Windows code-signing and deployment of enterprise applications

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Must be willing to work extended hours and/or weekends as needed
  • This role requires you to be onsite. Hybrid or remote work will not be considered

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
Pay range:
Security Engineer/Level I: $130,000.00 - $150,000.00/per year
Security Engineer/Level II: $145,000.00 - $175,000.00/per year
Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.
Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees accrue paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law.
ITAR REQUIREMENTS:
  • To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.
Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX's Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to EEOCompliance@spacex.com.

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