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Security Software Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Qualcomm

QGOV Security Software Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. is seeking a QGOV Software Engineer with a focus on software security. The candidate will work with established teams to research, design, and implement solutions relevant ...

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 ...

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 ...

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All JobsSecurity Software Engineer JobsSecurity Software Engineer Jobs in California

Security Software Engineer information

See California salary details

$22.7K

$137.8K

$172.2K

How much do security software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for security software engineer in California is $137,771.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $114,500.00 and $157,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a Security Software Engineer typically collaborate with other teams during the software development lifecycle?

Security Software Engineers work closely with development, operations, and quality assurance teams to integrate security best practices throughout the software development lifecycle. They often participate in code reviews, threat modeling sessions, and incident response planning to ensure that security is considered at every stage. Regular communication and collaboration with cross-functional teams help identify potential vulnerabilities early and promote a security-first culture across the organization. This collaborative approach not only strengthens the final product but also provides valuable opportunities for learning and professional growth.

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

AspectSecurity Software EngineerSecurity Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's in CS, cybersecurity certifications (e.g., CISSP, CEH)Bachelor's in IT, cybersecurity certifications (e.g., CISSP, Security+)
Work EnvironmentDevelops security tools, software, and systemsMonitors security alerts, analyzes threats, and responds to incidents
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, cybersecurity firms, large enterprisesFinancial institutions, government agencies, corporations

Security Software Engineers focus on designing and developing security software and tools, while Security Analysts monitor and respond to security threats. Both roles require cybersecurity certifications and work in similar environments, but their core responsibilities differ significantly.

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

To thrive as a Security Software Engineer, you need a strong background in computer science, secure coding practices, and cybersecurity principles, often supported by a degree in a related field or relevant certifications. Familiarity with tools such as static and dynamic code analyzers, penetration testing suites, and secure development lifecycle frameworks is essential. Standout professionals demonstrate critical thinking, attention to detail, and strong communication skills to identify vulnerabilities and collaborate with cross-functional teams. These skills and qualities are vital for building resilient software systems and protecting organizations from evolving security threats.

What are Security Software Engineers?

Security Software Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and implement software solutions focused on maintaining and enhancing the security of computer systems, applications, and networks. They identify potential security vulnerabilities, create safeguards, and ensure that software products comply with security standards and best practices. Their responsibilities often include code reviews, penetration testing, and collaborating with other developers and IT staff to address security risks throughout the software development lifecycle.
What are popular job titles related to Security Software Engineer jobs in California? For Security Software Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Security Software Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Security Software Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Security Software Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Security Software Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Security Software Engineer jobs in CA? For Security Software Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Security Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Security Software Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $137,771 per year, or $66.2 per hour.
QGOV Security Software Engineer

QGOV Security Software Engineer

Qualcomm

San Diego, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Qualcomm rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

40th of 217 rated software companies

Job description

Job Summary:
Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. is seeking a QGOV Software Engineer with a focus on software security. The candidate will work with established teams to research, design, and implement solutions relevant to government partners, with responsibilities including software vulnerability research and the design of embedded software solutions.
Responsibilities:
• Perform end-to-end software vulnerability research against software stacks to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities.
• Design and implement software tools to assist vulnerability research.
• Design and implement embedded software solutions to meet customer requirements.
• Assists in performing code reviews and regression tests as well as the triaging of issues to ensure the quality of code.
• Write technical documentation to describe software vulnerabilities and mitigations.
Qualifications:
Required:
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Information Systems, Computer Science, or related field and 4+ years of Software Engineering or related work experience.
• OR Master's degree in Engineering, Information Systems, Computer Science, or related field and 3+ years of Software Engineering or related work experience.
• OR PhD in Engineering, Information Systems, Computer Science, or related field and 2+ years of Software Engineering or related work experience.
• 2+ years of work experience with Programming Language such as C, C++, Java, Python, etc.
Preferred:
• Active TOP SECRET clearance
• 3+ years of work experience with programming language such as C, C++, Java, Python
• 3+ years of embedded software engineering or related work experience.
• Strong understanding of calling conventions, registers usage, and memory management across x86 and ARM architectures
• Advanced knowledge of Linux operating system fundamentals
• Experience using standard Linux tools like gdb, strace, ltrace, objdump, readelf.
• Experience with Trace32/JTAG tools
• Experience with Git or other source code management systems
• Experience with Android platform tools, including Android Debug Bridge (ADB)
• Proficient user of IDA pro or Ghidra
• Experience in software based reverse engineering
• Experience in identification and remediation of security vulnerabilities
• Experience using Large Language Models (LLMs) to augment reverse engineering workflows and vulnerability discovery process.
Company:
Qualcomm designs wireless technologies and semiconductors that power connectivity, communication, and smart devices. Founded in 1985, the company is headquartered in San Diego, USA, with a team of 10001+ employees. The company is currently Late Stage.

What Qualcomm employees say

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About Qualcomm

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Qualcomm is enabling a world where everyone and everything can be intelligently connected. You interact with products and technologies made possible by Qualcomm every day, including 5G-enabled smartphones that double as pro-level cameras and gaming devices, smarter vehicles and cities, and the technology behind the smart, connected factories that manufactured your latest purchase. Our powerful connectivity solutions keep you connected—even in remote areas. Qualcomm 5G and AI innovations are the power behind the connected intelligent edge. You’ll find our technologies behind and inside the innovations that deliver significant value across multiple industries and to billions of people every day.

Industry

Technology, communication and media

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Diego, CA, US

Year founded

1985

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