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Security Software Developer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Software Developer

Solana Beach, CA · On-site +1

$120K - $180K/yr

The Software Developer is part of an agile development team responsible for building enterprise ... Conduct code reviews with a focus on identifying architectural drift, security gaps, and subtle ...

The Software Developer is part of an agile development team responsible for building enterprise ... Conduct code reviews with a focus on identifying architectural drift, security gaps, and subtle ...

Saalex is seeking a Software Developer in Ridgecrest, CA. Saalex Corp., is an Engineering and ... Security Clearance: * Active Secret clearance required. TS/SCI preferred. Requirements to obtain a ...

Showing results 41-60

Security Software Developer information

See California salary details

$47.4K

$110.4K

$163.8K

How much do security software developer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 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 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 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 is a security software developer?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a security software developer?

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 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:

Infographic showing various Security Software Developer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,380 per year, or $53.1 per hour.

Security Software Engineer, OS Security, SEAR

Apple

Cupertino, CA

$129K - $225K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Re-posted 9 days ago


Apple rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 677 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 30 rated technology retailers


Job description

Apple’s OS Security team is looking for a motivated software engineer to design, build, and deploy world-class containment and isolation mechanisms throughout our operating systems. As part of the Security Engineering and Architecture group, you will develop the foundational technologies-including compartmentalization, mandatory access control, and robust policy engines-that ensure our platforms are resilient and never just one mistake away from compromise. Our goal is for users to feel confident that our devices have their back every time they interact with an Apple product.
Description
In this hands-on software engineering role, you will design robust software systems and craft secure, high-performance code, collaborating across the company with everyone from our Silicon Engineering group to our Human Interface designers. We build technology deep within macOS and iOS internals, but we also lift it up through the software stack, creating ergonomic APIs that connect world-class security engineering directly to developers and users. You will have the autonomy to invest your time into the most promising areas of research and development, seeing your work scale to protect millions of people in their daily lives. Come help us push the boundaries of pragmatic, user-focused security.","responsibilities":"Design and implement state-of-the-art isolation and compartmentalization mechanisms for iOS and macOS internals.
Develop and maintain label-based and mandatory access systems, alongside the sophisticated policy languages and engines that enforce them.
Build secure, usable APIs that allow both first-party and third-party developers to easily adopt our containment technologies.
Analyze high-level frameworks and apps to ensure our security models apply pragmatically across the entire system, while operating mostly at the OS and systems programming level.
Balance security, performance, and ease of use by breaking down ambitious, multi-year security goals into tangible, deployable steps.
Collaborate across Apple to ensure our security technologies are not just built, but actively and correctly used by other teams to protect what matters most.
Preferred Qualifications
Exposure to iOS and macOS (end user, administrator, and/or developer).
Involvement in open source technologies and development communities such as FreeBSD and Linux.
Real world kernel and/or hypervisor programming experience.
Experience designing and implementing security policy languages.
Minimum Qualifications
BS in Computer Science or equivalent experience/skills in systems programming and security.
Strong C and low-level systems programming skills.
Understanding of operating system internals (macOS, iOS, BSD, or Linux).
Ability to navigate and understand code up and down the software stack (comfortable diving into kernel, low-level userland, framework, and application code).
Familiarity with past, current, and emerging security exploits and mitigation techniques.
Demonstrated readiness to balance concurrent priorities, manage technical debt, and deliver on tight schedules.
Excellent partnership and communication skills to collaborate with a broad range of engineering teams.
Pay & Benefits
At Apple, base pay is one part of our total compensation package and is determined within a range. This provides the opportunity to progress as you grow and develop within a role. The base pay range for this role is between $129,300 and $225,300, and your base pay will depend on your skills, qualifications, experience, and location.
Apple employees also have the opportunity to become an Apple shareholder through participation in Apple's discretionary employee stock programs. Apple employees are eligible for discretionary restricted stock unit awards, and can purchase Apple stock at a discount if voluntarily participating in Apple's Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You'll also receive benefits including: Comprehensive medical and dental coverage, retirement benefits, a range of discounted products and free services, and for formal education related to advancing your career at Apple, reimbursement for certain educational expenses - including tuition. Additionally, this role might be eligible for discretionary bonuses or commission payments as well as relocation. Learn more about Apple Benefits
Note: Apple benefit, compensation and employee stock programs are subject to eligibility requirements and other terms of the applicable plan or program.

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About Apple

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Imagine what you could do here! At Apple, new ideas have a way of becoming extraordinary products, services, and customer experiences very quickly. Bring passion and dedication to your job and there's no telling what you could accomplish. Dynamic, intelligent people and inspiring, innovative technologies are the norm here. The people who work here have reinvented entire industries with all Apple Hardware products. The same real passion for innovation that goes into our products also applies to our practices strengthening our dedication to leave the world better than we found it.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Cupertino, CA, US

Year founded

1976