ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Security Software Developer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Qualcomm

QGOV Security Software Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$134K - $202K/yr

QGOV Software Engineer with a focus on software security. A candidate will work with established teams to research, design, and implement solutions across a variety of focus areas and technologies ...

Qualcomm

QGOV Security Software Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$111K - $166K/yr

QGOV Software Engineer with a focus on software security. A candidate will work with established teams to research, design, and implement solutions across a variety of focus areas and technologies ...

Qualcomm

QGOV Security Software Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$134K - $202K/yr

QGOV Software Engineer with a focus on software security. A candidate will work with established teams to research, design, and implement solutions across a variety of focus areas and technologies ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsSecurity Software Developer JobsSecurity Software Developer Jobs in California

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 Jul 5, 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.

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

Security software developers and cybersecurity professionals can potentially earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with senior roles, specialized skills, certifications, and experience in high-demand areas like threat intelligence or security architecture. Achieving this level often requires advanced expertise, leadership responsibilities, or working in high-paying industries or consulting roles.

What does a security software developer do?

A security software developer designs, develops, and maintains software solutions to protect computer systems and networks from cyber threats. They analyze security vulnerabilities, implement security protocols, and often use programming languages like C++, Java, or Python, along with security tools and frameworks, to ensure data integrity and confidentiality.

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 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 engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Senior security software developers with extensive experience, specialized skills, and certifications such as CISSP or CISA can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially in high-demand industries or senior leadership roles. Compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, and other incentives, particularly in large tech companies or cybersecurity firms.

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.

Can you make $200,000 in cyber security?

Security software developers and cybersecurity professionals can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and roles in high-demand industries or senior positions. Salaries vary based on location, expertise, and the complexity of the work, with some senior roles and specialized skills commanding higher compensation.
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
Sr. AI Security Software Engineer (Starshield)

Sr. AI Security Software Engineer (Starshield)

SpaceX

Palo Alto, CA • On-site

$168K - $230K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

SpaceX rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 144 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 60 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.
SR. AI SECURITY SOFTWARE ENGINEER (STARSHIELD)
Starshield leverages SpaceX's Starlink technology and launch capability to support national security efforts. While Starlink is designed for consumer and commercial use, Starshield is designed for government use, with an initial focus on earth observation, communications, and hosted payloads. The Starshield team is building highly reliable in-space mesh networks, designing secure systems to guarantee access to space, designing next-gen communication and sensing software, and more.
As a Sr. AI Security Software Engineer, you will leverage AI to automate security-related efforts and ensure safe AI integration into new and existing systems. If you are passionate about AI, security, and pushing the limits of combining both together, this role is for you.
Ideally, you have notable skills in the following:
  • Software engineering
  • Agent engineering and security
  • LLM attack surfaces
  • Network and operating system security
  • Incident response and adversary detection

Being flexible, communicating clearly, and establishing and maintaining productive working relationships with other engineering teams are paramount to success. If you are passionate about building quality products, love the challenges of outsmarting adversaries, and want to make an impact on an inter-planetary scale, then you will fit right in.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Design and build security-critical agents for Starshield that automate network and systems defense
  • Leverage AI to discover and fix security issues in Starshield infrastructure and systems
  • Provide guidance and perform testing of AI integrations into new and existing Starshield systems
  • Identify new areas of the program where meaningful security improvements can be gained via automation and AI
  • Maintain existing production systems and improve security posture via both direct implementation and recommendations to other teams

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor's degree in computer science or another STEM discipline AND 5+ years of professional experience in security software development; OR 7+ years of professional experience in security software development in lieu of a degree
  • Experience with one or more software development languages (i.e. Python, C++, Golang)
  • Experience designing and implementing security solutions for operating systems, distributed systems, or other enterprise/large-scale infrastructure
  • Experience designing and implementing solutions with LLMs, LLM-based agents, or other AI topics

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
  • Demonstrated ability to deal with ambiguity, learn quickly, problem solve, and take ownership of the end result
  • Understanding of core security engineering topics: cryptography, authentication, network security, operating system security
  • Experience designing, prompting, and securing agents that can perform long-running autonomous tasks
  • Experience red-teaming/penetration-testing LLMs, including prompt injection, jailbreaking, and data exfiltration
  • Experience deploying and managing LLMs, including infrastructure and maintenance to ensure reliable, scalable operation
  • Experience contributing security improvements to complex systems
  • Flexibility, communicating clearly, and establishing and maintaining productive working relationships with other engineering teams
  • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
  • Ability to work both independently and in a team
  • Advanced degree in a technical or engineering discipline
  • Active Top Secret, Top Secret SCI, or DOE Level Q clearance

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Must be willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed
  • This position requires successfully obtaining and maintaining a Top Secret Security Clearance as a condition of employment. While the clearance may not be immediately necessary upon hire, we encourage you to initiate the application process promptly upon accepting this offer. Your ability to secure the necessary clearance is essential for fulfilling key responsibilities of the role. Should you be unable to obtain it, SpaceX reserves the right to modify or terminate your employment to align with operational needs.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
Pay Range:
Security Software Engineer/Senior: $168,000.00 - $230,000.00/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:
    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

What SpaceX employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply